Many families/entrepreneurs who operate world class eco-destinations have strong connections to the land. This comes from generations of familial connection, personal / emotional connection, and overall commitment to protecting one’s legacy, livelihood and homeland. These same families inevitably stumble upon succession issues, burn-out, or natural disasters that create stumbling blocks for continued success. Our model provides a mechanism to re-energize these projects and keep existing conservation land intact.
We strongly believe that people will not conserve what they don’t experience. You will not love what you do not know, and you will only protect what you love. You can’t have conservation without engagement and recreation.
Arturo Oropeza
Born and raised in Mexico City, Arturo moved to Costa Rica in 2000. He is based in Heredia, where he owns and operates multiple eco-tourism operations throughout the country. He is deeply involved in the tourism and conservation community in Costa Rica and advises a variety of groups, tourism agencies, corporate entities, etc on best practices regarding sustainable eco-tourism.
Sam Drevo
Sam is based in Oregon City, OR where he co-owns and operates eNRG Kayaking. eNRG Kayaking is a kayak school/raft company that runs flatwater and whitewater trips throughout the world. Sam currently sits on the board of We Love Clean Rivers, and has been intimately involved in tourism economic development throughout the Northwest.
Justin Rae
Justin is based out of Bend, OR and was lucky to start his outdoor apprenticeship as a professional river guide working throughout most of the United States, Central and South America for close to two decades. He inevitably stumbled upon full time employment and has been thoroughly immersed in the start-up/entrepreneurship world. With over 20 years in professional money management roles, founder and partner in the first outdoor specific industry accelerator in the US (Bend Outdoor Worx), and a staunch conservationist, he brings a diverse background to CHAII.
Partner Organizations:
