Kids for Casita Linda is the youth chapter of Casita Linda, driven by the passion and dedication of young leaders who are making an impact in their communities. Since its beginning in 2016, this group has been instrumental in supporting Casita Linda’s mission of building homes and hope for families in need.

Our Leadership

The current Kids for Casita Linda board comprises young leaders from across the globe:

• Maddie García Nieto – President since 2019, based in Washington, D.C.
• Colin Kitzman – Service Trip Coordinator, based in New York City
• Tristan Jackson – Board Member, based in San Miguel de Allende
• Rowan Jackson – Board Member, based in Seattle, WA.

These remarkable kids are the driving force behind the group’s innovative initiatives and unwavering commitment to service.

A History of Making a Difference

Kids for Casita Linda began as a grassroots initiative by Maddie García Nieto and her classmates from Academia Internacional in San Miguel de Allende. In 2016, the group started fundraising with a lemonade stand at local food festivals, and their involvement has since expanded into numerous impactful projects:

• Back-to-School Drives: Organizing backpack collections to ensure children are equipped for the school year.

• Winter Drives: Collecting clothing and blankets during the winter season for needy families. 

• Sweet Dreams Project: Securing donated mattresses from hotels to provide families with a good night’s sleep.

• Three Kings Toy Drive: Actively participating in this beloved annual event to spread holiday cheer.

•  Summer Program: Engaging with the community through educational and recreational activities.

• Reforestation Day: Tree planting to aid environmental preservation and reinforces our commitment to sustainability.

• River Cleanup Project: Cleaning invasive plants and trash from the Rio Laja.
• Student Service Trips: Recruiting, organizing, and hosting groups of American student volunteers who fundraise and help build houses.
• Design Project: Designing logos and product labels for groups of women in Casita Linda communities who make and sell natural soaps, shampoos, and herbal remedies.

In addition to these efforts, the group has rolled up their sleeves to paint homes and participate in various building projects, exemplifying hands-on dedication to creating positive change.

A Legacy of Learning and Giving Back

Kids for Casita Linda is more than just a youth organization; it’s a movement that inspires young people to learn, grow, and give back. Through their efforts, they have fostered a spirit of community, compassion, and collaboration that leaves a lasting impact on everyone involved.

Join us in supporting Kids for Casita Linda and be part of this incredible journey of empowering the next generation of changemakers.