MREF’s 2026 Vision Trip to Costa Rica

By Maddie Swenson, Quirk’s Media

On January 22, I left Minnesota for Costa Rica to volunteer at Hogar Montiel alongside other members of the MREF community. The Hogar Montiel Program serves young girls between the ages of 5-12 in Costa Rica who have high social risk, facing problems such as neglect, abandonment, and abuse. I was excited to participate in the MREF Vision Trip and to meet the girls I have been hearing about for the past few years.

I was not let down.

The girls at the orphanage are some of the sweetest, most caring people I have ever met. You would never know that most of them experienced extreme trauma before the age of six. They are an inspiring group of people.

Despite not knowing a lot of Spanish, I was able to connect with many of the girls over activities like swimming, soccer, crafts, and music. Some of the girls helped me with my Spanish and wanted help with English.

Jami Pulley, MREF Executive Board Member and cofounder and CEO of Veridata Insights, was one of the volunteers. Her husband Tom and two daughters, along with a few other Veridata employees, were part of the 19 international volunteers on the Vision Trip.

Pulley said the organization will continue to support the change the MREF Month of Service strives to create around the world.

“We were finally able to participate in the Costa Rica orphanage trip. We spent a few days with girls that needed attention, kindness, and love,” Pulley said. “It was an amazing experience that allowed us to give back to children, which can change the lives of young people as well as generations to come. “

Quality time

While in Costa Rica, I learned that no matter who you are, quality time and care go a long way. These are actions that cross language barriers, connecting all of us.

We were able to visit a petting zoo, where the girls got to ride ponies and enjoy rope swings. The next day we went to a soccer field where we played various games, like soccer and kick ball.

The final day was spent at a pool with beach access.

On the way, we came across a few of the biggest crocodiles I have ever seen. We got off the bus and walked to the bridge over the river to get a better look. The girls were so excited to see the big crocodiles, a baby, and a few iguanas.

We spent the day in the sun and water with the girls. My favorite part was dancing with one of the girls in the pool and the ocean. Her giggles and smiles made my day.

At the end of each day, we went back to the orphanage to do crafts and put mosquito screens on the windows.

The days were long, but I had so much fun hanging out with the girls. Thanks to excellent Costa Rican coffee, I was able to mostly keep up with their endless energy.

Long-term impact

All Vision Trip volunteers had the opportunity to tour the site of Hogar Montiel’s new orphanage. This building will allow the organization to welcome more girls and extend care beyond the current age limit of 13, supporting them through age 18.

Through the 2025 Race Around the World for Education, MREF raised funds that will support the construction and supplies for classrooms at the new building.

Gina Meola, Escalent, another volunteer on the trip, said she was inspired by the strength and resilience of the girls.

“I was humbled, inspired, and reminded that simply showing up matters,” Meola wrote in a LinkedIn post. “Every small contribution added up to something meaningful.”

Harmon Research Group’s Stephanie Vincent brought her two children along every day, and her husband joined us as well. As our “Costa Rican tour guide,” Vincent not only coordinated everything but did it with a positive attitude and a smile on her face.

Vincent said this was the largest group of researchers to volunteer yet.

“I have to confess; I was a bit nervous. Coordinating 19 international volunteers, five locals, and 18 girls was no joke ... but we did it,” Vincent said. “And my heart is so full of gratitude.”

Brad Larson and his wife, Gabi, were also a huge part of the trip. They helped with organization and keeping all 19 international volunteers together and on time.

I left Costa Rica with new friends in and outside of the industry. I hope to have the opportunity to go back to see the girls and the new school!