Animals, Advocacy & A Night to Shine—Watch the Magic Unfold

It started with wide eyes and excited whispers as we stepped into PaiPai Ecotourism Park in Ensenada—and ended with full hearts and unforgettable memories.

Thanks to the generous donation of tickets from PaiPai and their remarkable team, students and staff from Eternal Anchor’s school, along with members of our Friendship Club Without Barriers, got the chance to experience something extraordinary: a full day immersed in the beauty of nature and the magic of connecting with animals up close.

From feeding giraffes to holding rabbits and watching other animals prowl just feet away, every moment brought joy, curiosity, and connection. For many in our community, especially those living with disabilities, this wasn’t just a day of fun—it was a moment of growth, healing, and belonging.

We also extend heartfelt thanks to Cuidados Paliativos CEPAC, a nonprofit in Ensenada that provides compassionate palliative care. Their collaboration helped ensure this trip was accessible and safe for all who participated.

“Experiences like this are powerful,” said Austin Robinson, Executive Director of Eternal Anchor. “When individuals with disabilities are welcomed into spaces of wonder, they don’t just observe the world—they become fully part of it. That’s what true inclusion looks like.”

Animal interactions can be especially meaningful for people with disabilities. They encourage communication, reduce anxiety, and offer emotional support that goes far beyond what words can express. To our partners at PaiPai and CEPAC: thank you for opening doors, building bridges, and helping us create a world where every person—no matter their ability—can experience joy and awe.

Earlier this month, the airwaves in San Quintin carried more than just voices—they carried courage, truth, and hope.

On Voces con Luz-XEQIN, hosted by Jacqueline Campos, listeners across the San Quintin Valley tuned in to hear Irma, Raymundo, Fabian, and Maria—four powerful advocates living with disabilities—share what life is really like in their communities. Their testimonies painted a vivid picture of both the challenges they face and the dreams they continue to pursue, despite systems that often overlook them.

They spoke boldly about the urgent need for accessible infrastructure and the importance of teaching children to value and respect people with disabilities. Irma, who is currently earning her master’s in education, shared her vision of one day holding a PhD—not just for herself, but to become a beacon of possibility for others who’ve been denied educational access.

One moment, in particular, stood out: a mother called in, her voice trembling with emotion. Inspired by the stories she had just heard, she shared how her son has been bullied because of his disability. But after hearing Irma, Raymundo, Fabian, and Maria speak, she felt something shift. She now feels empowered to continue advocating for her son—to believe again that change is possible.

“When people with disabilities share their stories, they challenge stereotypes, open minds, and inspire change,” said Deborah Garcia, Eternal Anchor’s Co-Founder and Director of Justice and Equity. “Access, inclusion, and empowerment are not privileges—they are rights.”

At Eternal Anchor, we are proud to stand alongside advocates like Irma, Raymundo, Fabian, and Maria. Their stories are not only brave—they are transformational. Each one helps dismantle stigma, ignite dialogue, and build a more just and inclusive future for the San Quintin Valley and beyond. We believe the most powerful change begins with listening. And these voices? They’re leading the way.