“Self Development Through Fellowship and Service” is a phrase that reflects what Outward Bound stands for, but it belongs to another international organization that shares a similar mission and philosophy, an organization that has a strong presence in Costa Rica and which recently partnered with Costa Rica Outward Bound. This organization is Rotaract, better known for their sponsoring organization, Rotary International. Rotaract is a service club for young men and women, ages 18-30, drawing its name from the words “Rotary in Action.” Rotaract addresses physical and social needs in local communities and promotes international understanding and peace though a framework of friendship and service.

Rotaract members mainly perform service projects, but there is also a strong emphasis on developing individuals to be leaders in their communities, schools and places of work. It is for the purpose of leadership development and teambuilding that the San José Rotaract Club chose Costa Rica Outward Bound for their 2009 weekend retreat. A group of eight Rotaractors from San José (and one Rotaract member visiting from Panama) bid farewell to life in the city and dedicated that time to exploring the natural wonders of their country, challenging themselves to become a stronger individuals and developing the relationships that bind the group and help them function as one body.

Rotaract after Whitewater Rafting The group started the weekend with a challenging hike and a canopy tour, zip-lining high above the canopy floor while observing the flora and fauna that lie far beneath them. After lunch, they went to the climbing wall at Iztarú, a camp for Costa Rican Scouts. Safely harnessed, the Rotaractors took turns climbing and belaying one another while reflecting upon the support systems they rely upon in their own lives and how the climbing wall serves as a metaphor for real-life challenges that they must overcome with the support of their friends and families. Saturday night served as a time for a meeting to discuss upcoming projects and ended with group teambuilding activities and games before everyone retired for the evening.

After a good night’s rest at the Outward Bound base in San Ramón de Tres Ríos, the Rotaractors woke up early for rafting on the Pacuare River. For some, it was their first time rafting. Everyone quickly learned the importance of listening to the raft guide and working in unison to manage the raft. Floating down a river surrounded by rainforest with intermittent waterfalls served to remind this group of Ticos of the natural riches their country boasts.

At the end of the day the club agreed that the retreat was both the most challenging and exhausting they had ever done, but no doubt the best and most memorable.