As a travel advisor, Laurie Fisher has helped countless families explore the beauty of Costa Rica. This December, she and her daughter Emily will experience the country for themselves—but with a deeper purpose.

“When I learned about Tacos 4 Ticos through my destination partner in Costa Rica, I knew this trip was the perfect opportunity for my family and community to give back in a meaningful way,” says Laurie.

Emily, Vice President of National Honor Society at Ragsdale High School, was eager to get involved. “We do several service projects each year,” she says. “When we heard about the opportunity to support schools and kids in Costa Rica, we thought it would be a great cause. I’m excited to experience Costa Rica, and it means a lot to know that we’re supporting a cause while we’re there.”

The Fishers and Ragsdale's National Honor Society are collecting donations for Tacos 4 Ticos, a nonprofit organization that distributes soccer gear and school supplies to children across four schools and organizations in Costa Rica. Their mission combines physical activity through soccer, academic support through English tutoring, and emotional well-being through mentorship and community involvement.

“Many of these children don’t have access to proper school supplies or sports equipment,” says Laurie. “Our goal is to bring happiness and opportunity by giving them the tools they need to both learn and play.”

Emily adds, “Even beyond the physical items, we want the kids to know that people far away care about them and believe in their future.”

The Fishers encourage neighbors to consider how small efforts can create meaningful change. “Donating school supplies or sports equipment is a simple way to give back,” says Laurie. “It doesn’t take much extra planning to bring along items that can have a lasting impact. Organizing something like this is rewarding and can inspire others to think about how they can make a difference, too.”