Centro Comunitario Oasis del Pacífico

The Oasis del Pacífico Family Community Center, also known as Espacio Cultural Oasis del Pacífico A.C., is a non-governmental organization founded in 2018 by Dr. Anja Widmann The center aims to provide accessible high-quality medical services, a mobile clinic, and preventive health campaigns in the coastal region of Oaxaca, Mexico. It is supported by the Jürgen-Wahn-Stiftung Foundation, which helped cover the initial construction and equipment costs.

Through her work with local children, Dr. Widmann observed the challenges faced by the community in terms of public health and developmental education. Issues such as malnutrition and environmental pollution contribute to various health problems that can be mitigated through basic education. However, the area suffers from a lack of educational programs and underfunded public schools, leading to illiteracy and triggering domestic and social violence.

To address these challenges, Dr. Widmann envisioned a community center that would provide a comprehensive space for children and their families. The Centro Comunitario Infantil, or Family Community Center, would focus on preventive health, environmental education, mindfulness, and a multicultural approach. Its objectives include promoting nutritional education, supporting cognitive and emotional development through workshops and activities, bridging gaps in the social fabric through language, art, and creativity workshops, and increasing awareness of environmental challenges.

With funding provided by the Jürgen-Wahn-Stiftung in Germany, construction of the community center began in November 2018. The center aims to commence its activities in the spring of 2019, focusing on delivering the first year of community-based programs.

The Centro Comunitario Oasis del Pacífico is registered as Espacio Cultural Oasis del Pacífico A.C. It is not affiliated with any religious or political organization, and any profits or donations received were reinvested in the continuity of operations to benefit as many local children and families as possible.

During its first year of operation, Centro Comunitario Oasis offered a plethora of activities to engage and serve the community. This community center aimed to provide a variety of opportunities for individuals of all ages and interests to come together, learn, and have fun.

 Let's explore the diverse range of activities that were available at Centro Comunitario Oasis:

The center kicked off its journey with a grand opening party. This celebration marked the establishment of the community center and served as a joyful gathering for community members. It was an occasion filled with music, performances, and speeches to highlight the center's mission and vision.

Throughout the year, the center organized special events to commemorate significant occasions. Children's Day, Christmas Posadas, and a big open door day were celebrated with great enthusiasm. On these occasions, the center opened its doors to the community, offering a glimpse into the various activities available. Community members had the chance to participate in different workshops, engage in recreational activities, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of the center.

For those inclined towards the arts, painting classes were available at Centro Comunitario Oasis. These classes provided an outlet for self-expression and creativity, allowing participants to explore different techniques and mediums. Skilled instructors guided the aspiring artists, fostering their talent and passion for painting.

Cooking classes were also offered at the center, allowing participants to learn and refine their culinary skills. These classes covered a range of cuisines and techniques, catering to both beginners and experienced cooks. Participants discovered new recipes, cooking methods, and gained confidence in the kitchen.

Arts and crafts activities were a popular choice among community members. Participants could explore their creativity and learn various crafts such as pottery, sculpture, and jewelry making. These classes encouraged artistic expression, allowing individuals to create unique and personalized pieces of art.

Sports enthusiasts had the opportunity to engage in volleyball matches organized by the community center. These sessions promoted teamwork, physical fitness, and friendly competition. Participants honed their volleyball skills while enjoying the camaraderie and spirit of the game.

For parents with young children, Centro Comunitario Oasis offered baby groups where they could connect with other parents, share experiences, and gain valuable parenting insights. These groups provided a supportive space for parents to exchange knowledge, seek advice, and build lasting relationships.
Music and singing classes were available to nurture musical talent and appreciation. Participants could learn to play musical instruments or improve their vocal abilities under the guidance of skilled instructors. These classes aimed to foster a love for music and develop participants' musical skills.

Zumba classes provided a fun and energetic way to stay fit. Community members could join these lively sessions that combined dance and exercise, helping participants improve cardiovascular fitness and coordination. The vibrant atmosphere of these classes motivated individuals to stay active and enjoy the benefits of movement.

Dance classes were also offered at the center, catering to various styles such as ballet, contemporary, hip-hop, and traditional dances. These classes allowed participants to express themselves through movement, learn new dance techniques, and embrace the joy of dancing.

To promote sustainable living and community engagement, Centro Comunitario Oasis established a community garden. The garden provided an opportunity for community members to learn about gardening, cultivate their own produce, and share gardening knowledge. It served as a space for relaxation, connecting with nature, and fostering a sense of environmental responsibility.

Yoga classes were available at the center, offering a space for individuals to practice mindfulness, improve flexibility, and enhance their overall well-being. These classes were led by experienced instructors who guided participants through various yoga poses and breathing exercises, promoting physical and mental balance.

Recognizing the importance of language skills, Centro Comunitario Oasis offered English classes to community members. These classes catered to individuals of different proficiency levels, providing them with a supportive environment to learn and practice the English language. Participants received guidance from qualified teachers, helping them develop their communication skills.

The Oasis del Pacífico Family Community Center, Espacio Cultural Oasis del Pacífico A.C., faced significant challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic, resulting in the closure and discontinuation of all activities for safety reasons.

We are currently working to restructure and reinvent the project, taking into account the many changes that have occurred in Puerto over the past three years. This period of reflection and adaptation presents an opportunity to refine the center's objectives, strategies, and offerings to better serve the evolving needs of the community.