Our Beginning
Abriendo Mentes was formed in June 2009 by Meradith Leebrick and Drew Ragland. After 3 years as community members in Playa Potrero, Meradith and Drew began to realize a lack in educational resources and extra-circular activities available to community members. They decided to dedicate themselves to improving the current educational situation by creating an afternoon program offered to the entire community.
Starting from a meager beginning with only their personal finances and a handful of resources, Meradith and Drew launched the first Abriendo Mentes class on June 8th in a local open air restaurant with just 15 students. With the help of many volunteers, supporters, and donations, Abriendo Mentes has grown to include more than 100 participating community members and has accumulated over 1,000 class hours.
The organization continues to grow and thrive by focusing on the core belief that creating lasting change involves building strong relationships with the local community. By working cooperatively and respectfully with all community members, Abriendo Mentes is able to maintain an organization that is sustainable and will remain community driven.
