Supporting local children and communities in meaningful, long-term ways.
COPAL CARES
Our Commitment to Community
More Than a Retreat
Copal Retreat was born in the Riviera Maya, and from the very beginning we’ve believed that true wellness goes beyond the mat, beautiful spaces, and nourishing food. It also includes the land we live on and the people who call it home.
As Copal grows, so does our desire to give back in meaningful, long-term ways.
This page shares how we are supporting our local community—and how our guests can be part of that impact, if they wish.
The Community We Support
Just a short 45 minute drive from Copal Retreat is a local public school serving children from an under‑resourced community. While the teacher (that distributes herself between the preschoolers and elementary school kids) and students bring incredible heart and dedication, the school has limited supplies, infrastructure, and outdoor facilities.
One of the biggest challenges is the lack of shaded outdoor space. Under the strong Yucatán sun, children have very few places to comfortably play, eat their lunches, or gather outside.
We’ve been supporting this school for some time through school‑ supplying donations and visits, and through these relationships one need has become especially clear.
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Outdoor space at the local school community
The School Palapa Project
A Space to Rest, Play, and Gather
Our current focus is building a traditional palapa on the school grounds.
Palapas are a natural, culturally rooted structure in this region, providing shade, airflow, and protection from the elements. For the school, this palapa will become a shared outdoor space where children can:
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Eat their lunches comfortably
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Rest and cool down during the day
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Play and gather outside
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Participate in school activities and celebrations
This project is about much more than a structure—it’s about creating a space where children can feel safe, comfortable, and cared for.
Our Commitment: Past, Present & Future
What we’ve done
Over the past years, Copal Retreat has supported the school through donations of supplies, direct visits, and hands‑on involvement by our team and retreat leaders.
What we’re doing now
Copal Retreat is leading and funding most of the School Palapa Project, while also inviting optional guest contributions to help support materials and ongoing school needs.
What we’re committed to
Our intention is to build long-term relationships with this school and, as Copal grows, to thoughtfully extend our support to other under-resourced schools and communities—always with a focus on children’s wellbeing and where help is truly needed.
Voices From the Community
“Visiting the local school and meeting the children was one of the most meaningful moments of the retreat. It reminded me how impactful small acts of generosity can be, and how connected Copal is to the community.”
— Retreat Leader
How You Can Be Part of This
By booking a retreat at Copal, guests are already supporting local community projects, as a portion of our profits is dedicated to this work. Guest participation beyond that is always optional, but many guests have shared that contributing in small additional ways can add a deeper sense of connection to their retreat experience.
Financial Contributions
Guests may choose to make a small donation toward the School Palapa Project. Every contribution helps cover materials, labor, and ongoing school needs.
Details on how to donate are available upon request.
Donate or Bring Supplies
Guests are welcome to bring school supplies or leave them with us at Copal, and we will ensure they are delivered directly to the school.
Common needs include:
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Notebooks, pencils, crayons, markers
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Art supplies
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Sports and outdoor play items
Planting Trees at the School
Guests may also choose to support tree planting on the school grounds. These trees will provide natural shade and protection from the elements for the children, while also contributing to a healthier local environment over time.
Why This Matters To Us
At Copal Retreat, we don’t believe wellness exists in isolation.
When we care for the land, support local communities, and build relationships rooted in respect, everyone benefits. This work is an ongoing journey—and we’re grateful to share it with guests, partners, and friends who value conscious travel and meaningful impact.
As Copal grows, so does our commitment to giving back—always with humility, transparency, and heart.