Amazonia Expeditions subscribes to the philosophy that tourism companies have an obligation to invest in the well being of the environment as well as native people.

Over the years we have supported conservation projects, student education, research projects and biological studies of the Tahuayo region. Our most extensive charitable outreach though, has been with the native people. Lodge owner Dolores Arevalo Shapiama de Beaver, herself a native of the Amazon, has worked to identify individuals with special needs that can be alleviated with medical or educational intervention. We have been careful to intervene in a fashion that does not disrupt the native culture, which generally prides self reliance

Several native adults and children have had tumors removed. One child had surgery to correct his problems with vision. Another had surgery to correct a hernia. Several children have had medical therapy to correct leg or foot problems or speech therapy. One child had her eyes treated to cure an unusual viral infection. Another teen-aged girl was brought to the United States for corneal implant surgery to restore her sight. An adult was hospitalized and treated for severe burns. Some adults and children have received treatment for cancer. Others have received medicine for chronic or acute infections. Many others have been helped by the donation of glasses or school supplies.

A non-profit foundation, Angels of the Amazon, has recently been
incorporated to assist and broaden this program. Cash donations can be sent
to this organization c/o

10305 Riverburn Dr.
Tampa, FL 33647.

Contributions can be made to the general fund or may be targeted to help specific individuals. For instance, an individual child can be sponsored
for elementary school ($300 per year) or secondary school ($500 per year). We currently have 26 students in our scholarship program. All school fees, books and supplies will be covered by the donation. Regular progress reports will be sent and the donator will be able to visit with their sponsored child on trips. Angels of the Amazon is fully tax exempt and tax deductible according to the US IRS.

The following supplies can also be donated to the foundation, or brought by
travelers for direct donation.

Gretty had surgery to repair an abdominal hernia

Katerine has an educational scholarship

Llerly has learning and speech disabilities; she is doing better
with therapy

Tourist donating school supplies

Photo by Garrett Parkinson

Children from Chino Village School: Amazonia donates school supplies