Day 6: Monteverde Institute

Visiting the Monteverde Institute reminded me of  how special being a leader, servant, and Close Scholar is. When we arrived, we were greeted by our host, Victorino, who shared the rich history and mission of the Monteverde Institute. He explained that today’s successful efforts towards reforestation, biodiversity, and ecological development seen at the institute started with one bird; the three-wattled bellbird. The bellbird sparked interest in researchers and biologist, which led to the reforestation efforts in the town of Monteverde. In hopes to attract and positively impact the activity of bellbirds and as a result an entire environmental mission was created at the Monteverde Institute. Their hopes to build stronger ecosystems, communities, and individuals align directly with what leaders are drawn to do in their own ways. Following our own birds, like this special project, may lead us to paths unexpected, life-changing relationships, and the strongest versions of ourselves.

-Sydney Gambrell