Z-fest Funds Help Nurture Young Minds

"It’s our opportunity to make this world a more joyful place," says Lorenzo Marbut, referring to the financial support that his nonprofit, Por Los Niños, has given to Zihuatanejo schools as a result of Sailfest fund-raising. Since its inception eight years ago, Zihua Sailfest has brought cruising sailors, expats and Mexican townspeople together to enjoy a diverse schedule of fun-filled activities both on and off the water. And each one has a fundraising component.

Over the years, Sailfest has raised a total of 3 million pesos, which has been matched by other nonprofits that were impressed by the amazing work done by Por Los Niños with Sailfest funds. "We’ve built about 25 classrooms and created a safe, secure and rich learning enrivonment for more than 1,000 impoverished, bright-eyed young scholars. According to local statistics, approximately 2,000 more disadvantaged children still need our help to attend school and achieve a basic education." Many of these disadvantaged kids are from indigenous families who speak their native dialects rather than Spanish. And until they learn Spanish they’re not allowed to attend existing public schools — a classic ‘catch 22’. 

Por Los Niños fills the void by building new schools and classrooms in the poor neighborhoods on the outskirts of the city, and supporting them with supplies year after year. 

Every year, cruisers who feel fortunate to be living the good life in Mexico find it extremely gratifying to be able to give something back via Sailfest events. So if you’re out cruising this season — or are itching to jet down to Mexico’s sunny latitudes for some R&R — consider participating in this year’s Z-fest, slated for February 2-7. With concerts, boat races, auctions, beach games and parties, a good time is practically guaranteed. And you can rest assured that the money you spend there will go to a very worthy cause.