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2025 Little by Little campaign!
(while funds remain)
By Cynthia Burgos Lopez | Executive Director
Over the past few months, 100 cartucheras have made their way into the hands of community leaders across more than 70 communities. Each one is more than just a toolkit—it’s a companion in the journey of grassroots organizing, participatory planning, and collective action. We’ve seen them land in the hands of neighbors dreaming up community gardens, artists reclaiming abandoned spaces, and educators creating safe learning environments. Every cartuchera carries the seeds of possibility, offering practical tools, strategies, and inspiration to those working to transform their surroundings.
Meanwhile, our second round of capacity-building for community project management certification is in full swing, welcoming seven participants from diverse backgrounds. These individuals bring with them stories of resilience, determination, and a shared commitment to strengthening their communities. The program goes beyond theory—it’s a hands-on, collaborative process, where participants learn by doing, exchanging knowledge, and supporting one another as they develop real-world projects. Watching them connect, strategize, and take ownership of their initiativesreinforces why building local capacity is one of the most powerful investments we can make.
Dadópolis is a game rooted in urban elements, featuring activities that activate connections between public spaces, nature, and community interactions. Participants use icons as storytelling tools, weaving together diverse narrativesthat reflect shared urban experiences. Through play, Dadópolis fosters imagination, collaboration, and dialogue, encouraging participants to reimagine their surroundings and explore new possibilities for public space activation.
The game was designed by our team, incorporating salvaged wood and laser engraving to create a durable and engaging experience. Additionally, a local artist contributed by crafting the fabric pouches using recycled materials, ensuring that Dadópolis not only serves as a tool for community engagement and learning but also reflects sustainability and creative reuse in its production.
As we continue this journey, we remain committed to expanding access, refining our approach, and adapting these tools to meet evolving community needs. Every cartuchera delivered, every workshop held, and every conversation sparked is another step toward a more self-sustaining, empowered Puerto Rico. We are excited to see how these tools will continue to ignite creativity, strengthen networks, and fuel the incredible work being led from the ground up.
By Cynthia Burgos Lopez | Executive Director
By Melissa Reneth Ramirez | Development and Grantwriting Coordinator
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