Oaxaca Foundation for Education & the Arts

A short story about us

During the pandemic, our founders, Debra and Victor, opened their home to local children for studying. They transformed one of their bungalows into a makeshift school, complete with computers, internet access, printing facilities, and healthy snacks. This experience inspired Debra and Victor to make a lasting commitment to support the people of San Francisco Tutla, particularly its children.

Focusing on children in grades 4 to 7, they brainstormed and created educational initiatives related to personal development and growth, health and hygiene and education generally. Students who previously did community service worked on English skills, education about blood, its importance in the body and to donate, and gardening and composting.

Victor is a long time art enthusiast and collector, focusing his collection on original works from Oaxacan artists. Wanting to support area artists after the pandemic, he and Debra decided to expand their vision of their developing non-profit and include art. In addition to raising money to support exhibitions, they offer opportunities for art students and artists to come and live, work with, and learn from area maestros. Students interested in art and art history have the opportunity to create catalogues, catlogue OFEA’s extensive collection, and assist area museums in research.

Debra and Victor's efforts are dedicated to fostering education and enriching the lives of the children in San Francisco Tutla and developing an international appreciation of Oaxacan art while preserving Oaxacan culture.

Our beginning

Photos courtesy of Rubén Tenorio Vasconcelos

Oaxaca, our home

Oaxaca is famous for its cuisine. More importantly, it is the cradle of the most important artists and artisans of Mexico. We listened to people from all over the world and hear (and experience) that once you visit Oaxaca, you never want to leave. Legend has it that if you eat a grasshopper (a local snack and ingredient in several dishes) that you are guarenteed to return.

Yes, it is magical. This is the real Mexico—the indigenous part of the country. It is the Mexico of corn, mole, quesillo (Oaxacan cheese), mezcal, and grasshoppers.

Yes, it is magical.

We want to advance knowledge, promote intellectual inquiry, and cultivate creativity among students through teaching and artistry

Our Services & Programs

Art & Culture

Education

Our Art & Culture branch offers a vibrant platform for art majors and enthusiasts to engage with the local art scene. Volunteers and participants have the opportunity to collaborate with Oaxacan artists, contributing to various creative projects and initiatives. This includes participation in interviews, art expositions, workshops, and community art projects. By fostering these connections, we aim to elevate Oaxacan art and provide artists with the exposure and support they need to thrive.

The Education branch focuses on supporting the children of San Francisco Tutla in their educational journey. Volunteers work closely with local schools and community centers to provide tutoring, mentorship, and enrichment programs. Our goal is to enhance the learning process and create a nurturing environment where children can excel academically and personally. Through these efforts, we aim to empower the next generation with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed.

Located just east of the city of Oaxaca in San Francisco Tutla (not far from the famous tree, el Tule), OFEA is a fully-enclosed compound surrounded by walls approximately 9 feet tall.

Hosting & Facilities

To further enrich the volunteer experience, OFEA provides residential facilities for those participating in our programs. These accommodations allow volunteers to live within the community they are serving, fostering a family-like atmosphere and deepening their connection to the local culture. By living and working side by side with the people of Oaxaca, volunteers can engage more authentically and contribute more meaningfully to community service efforts. This immersive experience not only enhances the impact of their work but also creates lasting bonds and unforgettable memories.

Frequently asked questions

How many community service hours can my student receive?

For 1 week, students receive a minimum of 20m hours of service hours. If a student desires more and is willing to forgo the cultural excursions, he/she/they can be accommodated. Before and during the trip, they can receive more in preparing for service.

Will students be supervised?

Yes, English speaking adults will supervise the students. They will live and work in the beautiful compound. When out on excursions, Debra and Victor will accompany them.

What will my student do for service?

Students will focus on their individual strengths, skills, and abilities. They can work with children on: art, sports including swimming in a solar heated, salt water pool, robotics, Legos construction, sewing, cooking easy foods, writing, reading, drawing, singing, music (we have two pianos and two guitars and can acquire others as needed), etc., Basically, anything the student is good at, the local children can and need to learn.

Is Oaxaca safe?

Yes. Conde Nast, the travel magazine, and the NCB Today Show both recently ranked Oaxaca as the #1 tourist destination in the world. Oaxaca has the same types of crimes that any city does—telephone snatching, snatching of cash leaving an ATM, and other small crimes of convenience.

How can I contact you?

You can reach us by phone, email address, or using our contact form below. We are always happy to answer your questions.

Are there drugs in Oaxaca?

Like everywhere in the world, Oaxaca has its share of drugs. Marijuana is not legal nor easily available. Students are not permitted to have or use non-prescription drugs or alcohol and will be returned home if found in possession of them.

Get in touch

Get in touch with us through our submission form to learn more about our residential community service and learning programs for US students in Oaxaca, Mexico!

Phone US

(+1) 909 456 5876

Phone MX

(+52) 951 224 26122

Email

debra@ofeanfp.org