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GIVING BACK IN GUADALAJARA

The Ultimate Guide to Charity and Volunteering


Note: This article is free for all, TWIG members or not!



Did you know that in Poncitlan, just an hour's drive from Guadalajara, an alarming 47% of children suffer from kidney disease?Ā Additionally, Mexico grapples with a devastating reality, ranking among the top 5 worldwide in child sexual abuse cases.Ā These shocking statistics highlight the urgent need for action and support to address these critical issues affecting vulnerable children and people in our communities.

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Guadalajara, a city pulsing with community spirit, offers endless opportunities to make a meaningful difference. This guide is your roadmap to discovering the best ways to give back, whether through donating to local charities, volunteering your time, or championing a cause close to your heart.

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In this guide youā€™ll discover the best:

šŸŒŸĀ Local charities in Guadalajara

šŸŒŸĀ Donations programs

šŸŒŸĀ Volunteering opportunities

šŸŒŸĀ Ways to giving back

šŸŒŸĀ Community services

šŸŒŸĀ Five simple waysĀ to assess the impact of your charitable giving

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If you have some time, talents or money to spare, itā€™s time to unlock the power of positive impact and get involved in Guadalajara's vibrant community!



Get Started

Begin with a simple yet meaningful step! Start by participating in a local event or making a modest donation to a charity that aligns with your values.

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Stay Committed

Consistency is the catalyst for lasting change. Take your impact to the next level by committing to a regular volunteer schedule or setting up recurring donations. This steadfast dedication ensures a continuous stream of support, fostering deeper connections and more profound effects in the lives of those you're helping.

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Tips for Becoming a Successful Giver

By setting goals and tracking your impact, you'll be able to see the real difference your contributions are making and make informed decisions to optimize your giving. Here are five simple waysĀ to assess the impact of your charitable giving.

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And now, discover the most impactful and reputable non-profit organizations in Guadalajara, carefully selected to ensure your donations make a real difference.

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This dynamic list will be regularly updated and expanded as we uncover more worthy causes, providing you with a trusted resource to maximize your charitable giving.



ANIMAL SHELTERS



ANYONE IN NEED


šŸ’– Tres Flores

Discover the heart of generosity at Tres Flores charity store, adjacent to AMSOC, where locals and expats unite to make a difference! This vibrant organization welcomes physical donations of all kinds, from gently used clothes and toys to books, furniture, and everything in between. Visit the store every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 10am to 2pm and explore the treasures within. Best of all, every sale supports those in genuine need, like the remarkable story of Tres Flores' generous cash donation to a Canadian expat who faced unexpected medical challenges. Your contributions can change lives! Contribute by:

  • Donating clothes, toys, and anything in good condition that can be sold at their store

  • Shopping for quality used items at their store

  • Volunteering with Tres Flores (you won't believe how fun and rewarding it is)

Contact them to learn more:


An annual worldwide simultaneous dance of Michael Jacksonā€™s ā€œThriller.ā€ Here in the Lake Chapala area of Mexico, we are celebrating our 14th Anniversary, where Zombies young and old, Mexican and Expats, learn the dance and raise money for local charities. This year, our fundraising efforts benefit the Rotary Club of Ajijic. Contribute by:

  • Dance

  • Volunteer

  • Donate

  • Attend their yearly October Zombie Dance Fundraising event ($500 MXN)

Contact them to learn more:


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CHILDREN

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Dedicated to serving girls, boys, and adolescents in precarious situations, this institution strives to provide holistic support to those without a family or a stable home environment, addressing their unique needs and empowering them for a brighter future.Ā Contribute by:

  • Online donations to support their programs

  • Donate clothes, toys, and educational materials to support their development

  • Adopting a child

Contact them to learn more:

Tel: +52 33 3631-0889

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šŸ’– Fundacion PAS

Mexico faces a critical issue, ranking highest globally in child sexual abuse cases. According to UNICEF (2014), inadequate response and lack of trust in authorities, combined with insufficient support mechanisms, hinder effective action. This project aims to address this crisis by providing specialized training for professionals, enabling them to deliver appropriate care and support. By strengthening the response to child sexual abuse, we can significantly reduce its alarming rates and protect vulnerable children. Contribute by:

  • Online donations to support their programs

  • PAS is recognized by Global GivingĀ 

  • Volunteering your timeĀ Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā 

Contact them to learn more:

Tel: +52 33 3642-2803

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With a devoted and compassionate fan base, Club Deportivo Guadalajara recognizes its profound social responsibility as Mexico's most beloved team. This commitment drives the Jorge Vergara Foundation's mission to design and execute impactful social programs for children and teenagers, focusing on transformative areas like Health, Education, and Sports. By leveraging the club's influence, we strive to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people and foster a brighter future. Contribute by:

  • Online donations to support their programs

  • Volunteering your timeĀ Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā 

Contact them to learn more:

Tel: +52 331 417 5110

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Libros para Todos aims to foster a love of reading in children from low-income families in rural Guanajuato, Mexico, where access to books is limited. Since 2013, they have helped over 5,000 children, partnering with schools, non-profits, and community centers to implement reading programs, writing workshops, and cultural events. Their mission is to combat inequality through education, empowering children to succeed in a globalized economy by igniting a passion for reading and learning. Contribute by:

  • Online donations to support their programs

  • Libros Para Todos is recognized by Global GivingĀ 

  • Volunteering your time (if you live in San Miguel Allende, or Dolores Hidalgo)Ā 

Contact them to learn more:

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LISI Institute provides 660 scholarships to talented, at-risk youth from impoverished communities near Guadalajara, Mexico. Our scholars include:

  • 414 middle school students

  • 166 high school students

These deserving teenagers are supported across three institutes located in marginalized communities south of Guadalajara, Mexico, offering them a chance to thrive and break the cycle of poverty. Contribute by:

Contact them to learn more:

Tel: +1 (313)801 8625 (Austin TX)

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šŸ’– MAMA AC

Join the movement that uplifts abandoned children! MAMA's mission is to passionately advocate for and empower the rights of vulnerable children, adolescents, and teenagers living on the streets. We provide essential education and resources to help them build a dignified life, breaking the cycle of poverty and neglect. Contribute by:

Contact them to learn more:

Tel: +52 33 3825 2576

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The Guadalajara-based charity that supports children with cancer, has managed to raise 7.3 million pesos (US$426,000) needed to complete the purchase of a property to house its third shelter in the city. Contribute by:

  • Online donations to support their programs

  • Become a volunteer and helpĀ more children get ahead

  • Join their braid recycling

  • Join our food donation campaignĀ 

  • Donate your braid to a champion!

  • Join our sponsorship program and change the life of a child

Contact them to learn more:

Tel: +52 333 331 0241

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In Poncitlan (one hour from GDL), a staggering 47% of children are afflicted with kidney disease, according to the University of Guadalajara. To combat this, our project will provide a weekly nutritional supplement, expertly designed by ONI, to support the healthy development and well-being of these children. By promoting balanced diets and habits, we aim to empower young lives to thrive and effectively manage kidney disease. Contribute by:

  • Online donations to support their programs

  • Donate your time, services or products

  • ONI is recognized by Global GivingĀ 

  • Sponsor a child or care center

  • Join their campaignsĀ Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā 

  • Attending their fundraising social events

Contact them to learn more:

Tel: +52 33 2349 7683

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Children with visual disabilities deserve equal opportunities to thrive. Without access to tailored resources, they face unnecessary limitations that exceed their disabilities. Our program bridges this gap by adapting the Ministry of Public Education's curriculum for preschool and primary school to meet the unique needs of children with visual and associated disabilities. By providing specialized support, we empower them to acquire essential skills in reading, writing, and math, enabling their successful integration into regular schools and unlocking their full potential. Contribute by:

  • Online donations to support their programs

  • It is recognized by Global Giving

  • Volunteering,Ā giving your time and talent

  • Sponsor a student

Contact them to learn more:

Tel: +52 332 493 8677


This safe haven for young girls rescued from sexual abuse and trafficking, urgently requires funding to repair their deteriorating facility. This crucial organization, founded by an American missionary, provides refuge and rehabilitation for victims exploited by their own families. Every donation counts in restoring hope and dignity to these resilient survivors. Your contribution can help:

  • Repair the crumbling house, ensuring a safe environment

  • Increase capacity to welcome more abused girls

  • Provide essential services: counseling, education, and medical care

Contact them to learn more:

Tel: +52 33 26 02 50 26

Email:

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ENVIRONMENTAL

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Empowering a sustainable future, our civil society organization fosters creative citizenship and community engagement, driving meaningful change towards a more sustainable tomorrow. Contribute by:

  • Joining their volunteer programs

Contact them to learn more:

Tel: +52 (33) 3342 3270

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FOOD

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Make a difference in your community with this Tlaquepaque local food bank committed to providing essential nutrition to those in need. Contribute by:

  • Online donations to support their programs

  • Volunteer opportunities throughout the year

  • Corporate Volunteer programs

Contact them to learn more:

Tel: +52 33 3810 6595

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HEALTH

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Kidney transplants


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MIGRANTS

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We serve and defend the rights of people deported from the United States. Our center in Guadalajara provides U.S. legal aid services, and we advocate on behalf of the deported and their families in D.C. In a state so heavily impacted by migration, and particularly U.S. immigration enforcement policies, it's hard to turn a blind eye. Contribute by:

  • Online donations to support their programs

  • Attending our charity eventĀ on Sept 22, 2024, benefitting migrants and refugees

  • Volunteering your timeĀ Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā 

  • Sharing our work with others

Contact them to learn more:

Tel: +52 33 2182 0836

Instagram: @therhizomecenter


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WOMEN

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In 2020, VIFAC Guadalajara opened its doors to 100 women facing vulnerable pregnancies, offering more than just shelter - a supportive community. Within our walls, they discovered a safe haven, lifelong friendships and unconditional support for themselves and their children. Contribute by:

  • Online donationsĀ to support their programs

  • Volunteer opportunities throughout the year

  • Corporate Volunteer programs

Contact them to learn more:

Tel: 800 624 8632

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MORE

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šŸ’– See the 200+ Mexican Charities listed on Global Giving


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WHERE TO VOLUNTEER

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This historic cultural institution offers opportunities to volunteer in various capacities, from guiding tours to assisting with events.

Volunteer Roles: Assist with educational programs, cultural events, or help with day-to-day operations.

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Volunteers can help care for animals, assist with conservation programs, and educate visitors about wildlife.

Volunteer Roles: Animal care, guest services, and conservation efforts.

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A nonprofit organization that builds homes for low-income families. Volunteers are essential for construction projects and community outreach.

Volunteer Roles: Participate in construction projects, fundraising, and community engagement.

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Voila!

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Whether youā€™re looking to donate money, volunteer your time, or support a cause, Guadalajara offers a wealth of opportunities to give back.

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Check back this list often to explore new opportunities to support the local community and create positive change.


āœØThe TWIG team wishes you the best life in our beautiful city of Guadalajara. Weā€™re always here to help, if we can!

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FAQĀ“S -

  1. HOW SAFE IS GUADALAJARA? Guadalajara is both safe and unsafe, depending on your lifestyle and choices. Numbeo safety index gives Mexico City a crime rating of 68.2 which is high. Guadalajara's is close at 62.2. If the crime rate comes higher than other similar big cities (Paris, London, New-York, Rome), in Mexico, most violent crimes are restricted to instances between criminal organizations. Reading about cartel activities in Mexico can be scary, however, unless you are extremely naĆÆve or unlucky to find yourself in the wrong place at the wrong time, as a tourist or expat, you have no reason to encounter criminal organizations, just like you donā€™t meet the mafia when traveling in Italy.

  2. What makes Guadalajara a safer place than most other big cities in the world? Peopleā€™s kindness and helpful nature. Very low aggressivity and no mass shootings. Most Mexicans are non-aggressive (except behind the wheel), polite and well mannered. GDL has a great expat community ready to help. Check TWIGā€™s connect page for all the wonderful groups we recommend you join to get help, good advice and make solid friends.

  3. Is Mexico safer than the US? In this video Andrew compares Mexico to the USA and explains why Mexico is safer.

  4. How to Make Your Move to Guadalajara Smooth and Stress-Free? Sign-up to TWIG's Relocation Program and learn in 4 days what it takes other years. From where to eat, where to stay, what to see, and connecting you to all the top professionals you need for your new life, youā€™ll feel home in an instant.

  5. How can I stay updated on the latest events and attractions in Guadalajara? Subscribe to TWIG's free weekly newsletter to get the best of Guadalajara delivered directly to your inbox.

Want more of everything going on in Guadalajara? Subscribe to TWIGā€™s free weekly newsletter to get the best of Guadalajara in your inbox. And get the ā€œBest of Guadalajara Listā€ to know the top bilingual professionals in 30+ categories (from private drivers to doctors).



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