Danielle Children’s Fund
We began supporting Danielle Children’s Fund in Ecuador in 2024.
DCF’s mission is to contribute to the co-construction of healthy, protective families and communities that will prioritise the well being of children in this part of Ecuador.
They plan to achieve this through the development and enhancement of the capacities and strengths of families, communities and professionals involved in child protection.
They also encourage discussions that lead to social change.
For poor families in Ecuador, life can be difficult and often children are the victims of their parents’ powerlessness. By means of a three-year project, NGO Danielle Children’s Fund, together with parents and their children, is creating hope for a better future.
Poverty and ongoing social unrest has given rise to a range of challenges for many families, causing tension, along with feelings of helplessness.
Many parents lack a support system. They feel powerless when faced with their frustrations, and consequently some children face maltreatment, in the streets and also at home.
To support these families, the foundation is working closely with the local community to help build resilience. They are providing spaces where people can share their concerns, learn together and work collectively to put a stop to the current violence affecting both their town and their households.
Andean Trails’ donation this year will contribute to facilitating regular events at the community centre.
The donation covers refreshments and the cost of the equipment needed at film screenings in both indoor and outdoor community spaces. This is part of the work towards making greater use of public spaces and fostering the creation of safe spaces in the community for children, adolescents and women in particular.
Update March 2025:
In 2024, significant progress was made in strengthening relationships, building trust, and fostering collaboration.
Currently, there are several welcoming community spaces, including a library and an area for entrepreneurial activities such as a bakery and a kitchen. In 2024, 16 individuals received training in community leadership. More than 700 children and adults participated in family support programs, and clubs were established for children, teenagers, and parents to inspire and support one another.
Additionally, several community members came together to launch a community-based tourism initiative.
One of the children’s top priorities within the project is reclaiming safe spaces in the neighborhood. While this is an ongoing process, it is heartwarming to see that, with the support of the local municipality, some streets are closed off each month to host community movie nights. These events bring everyone together to enjoy children’s performances and a film with popcorn.
Over the next two years, we will continue working hand in hand with the children and people of Pifo to build peace, joy, and a sense of security in their community.
You can read more by visiting Danielle Children’s Fund
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Testimonials
Andrew D, UK, Galaxy Cruise, Feb 2026
Andrew D, UK
» Galaxy, Galapagos Islands Cruise Boat
J. Parks, USA, Terra Luna, Aysen Chile 2026
Visiting the Marble Caves has been on my bucket list for some time. With our planned trip to SA ending in Santiago this was the chance I had been waiting for. I started researching how to get to the Marble Caves and stumbled across Andeans Trails and Terra Luna by chance. The more research I did the more this seemed to be exactly what I was looking for. (a shuttle to and from the airport, lodging, food, and other outdoor activities besides the Cave Tour) Plus it had good reviews and seemed reputable. I contacted Andean Trails and Kathy (you) responded immediately, and our conversation continued until we had everything booked and in place. I was extremely pleased at how promptly every question or concern I had was addressed! I was a little nervous about flying to such a remote area where I did not know the language very well. A few days before we arrived our guide Andres sent me a msg that had such a welcoming tone all my fears were erased.
From the minute we landed in Balmaceda until we returned home the trip was magical!!! Part of it was like taking me back to my childhood. A long gravel road I walked often to my grandma’s log cabin in the woods with a wood stove. And so much of the vegetation was the same! I found out Puerto Gaudal is close to the 45th parallel S, and I live on the 45th parallel N! I was like deja vu! (Except for the Andes, GC Lake and Northern Icefield.)
I knew there were other outdoor activities available but I didn’t do any serious research on them, my mind was on getting to the Caves. That lead to a wow moment around every corner! My love of glaciers was rewarded in the trip to Leones Glacier with lunch on the moraine. The horseback ride on Erradica taught me new glacial terms! The time spent in Patagonia NP was very moving, esp Doug Tompkins grave. The hike to the Confluence and the waterfall was awesome. The fossil bed hike was challenging but Andres took his time with us and was so encouraging. Well worth the effort to get there!
To sum this up: Andean Trails very nicely made my dream to see the Marble Caves come true. They were easy to work with, replied promptly and did everything they could to make sure the trip went smoothly.
Terra Luna – A hidden gem in the heart of Patagonia! the lodging - wonderful, the scenery - breathtaking, the activities – invigorating , food – delicious, staff – top notch (every single one), Phillipe – so welcoming, Andres – (guide) top notch!
The only critique would be Terra Luna needs to clean the hot tub. It is a beautiful tub, beautiful view and the water was hot but the boards were a little slimy. Overall the place was awesome and I give them 99.9 rating.
JoAnn
JoAnn Parks, Dec 2025
» Terra Luna Lodge In Aysen, Patagonia
