A nonprofit organization with the mission of promoting self-sustaining economic development in Alausí, Ecuador through tourism, education, and training programs.

Our Focus

Testimonials

Before our trip, we really didn't know much about Ecuador, but thanks to MLF we have learned so much about a part of the world that is new to us, with memories and photos to last a lifetime. The people of Ecuador are incredibly hospitable. Everyone we met took so much pride in their country and were so excited to share the places that they love.

Megan, Ecuador Homecoming Traveler

My reason for entering the English classes is to give better service to my clients and to communicate correctly, thus increasing my sales. My goal is to also speak with family and people who are visiting from abroad. I thank the Foundation because I am learning so much and God for His wisdom and understanding. Thank you and many blessings to Jorge and his team. 

Katy, Maria Lida Foundation English Class Student and Small Business Owner

I would like at this time to thank the Maria Lida Foundation, because it has become a great strategic ally of ours! You have helped promote all the tourist attractions we have to offer. That is why I would also like to thank each of you for your contributions to the Maria Lida Foundation, because by contributing to the Foundation, you are also contributing to the development of Alausí.

Byron, Chairman of Pueblo Magico Alausí

During the current pandemic we face, we decided to start making masks. This is how I had the opportunity to contact...the Maria Lida Foundation, and who kindly collaborated with us by buying more than 500 masks (*2,000 masks total as of December 2020*). I am incredibly grateful for your kindness in buying directly from us. Please know that our masks are made with the purpose of helping the most vulnerable people in Alausí.

Maria, Founder of Fundación Reina de Alausí

Every day I use the English I learned at the Maria Lida Foundation's classes to speak with tourists.

Vinicio, Maria Lida Foundation English Class Student

I've seen first hand the work the Maria Lida Foundation does to respect a community's traditions while also helping open the door to future opportunity. This important work changes lives every day!

Elise, Practicum Project Team Lead

I am happy to have studied English to teach my family and my students. I want to invite those who want to learn English to do so. It is very important to know another language in life. Thank you all very much for the opportunity. I love you very much. Friends forever!

Rosita, English student

I would also like to thank your hard but fruitful work for providing us with so many scholarships. This will provide some relief to so many poor families that wish their children attended our school, but they do not have the means to do so. You have all made it possible for many kids to receive an education with Christian values, and because of that I want to say God Bless the Maria Lida Foundation, all of its members, and to everyone that through you make for Alausí to be a better place.

Sor Hilda, Mother Superior of San Francisco de Sales school

Support Our Cause

Thank you for your interest in supporting the Maria Lida Foundation! Your donation will contribute to our mission of promoting economic development in Alausí, Ecuador. We greatly appreciate your generosity. 

The Maria Lida Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit
organization, donations to which may be deductible as charitable contributions for federal income tax purposes.

Click Here To DONATE

Foundation News

Ryan's ASK (Alausí Scholarships for Kids) Program

Ryan's ASK Program (Alausí Scholarships for Kids) Program

Sponsor a student(s) to attend the local San Francisco de Sales school. Due to COVID19, many students had to withdraw from the school as they are unable to afford tuition.

Help us invest in the future of Alausí, Ecuador!

Sponsor a Student

Plan Your Trip to Alausí

We are pleased to have launched a new website, www.sialausi.com, to encourage and increase tourism to the Alausí, Ecuador area. Enjoy its vast content to help you plan your trip! 

Sí Alausí Website

The Maria Lida Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.