The Reviews are In!
testimonials
Linda Johansen
"I have been a world traveler for 55 years now, and my favorite trips are the philanthropic trips that I try to go on several times a year. The adage that you get more than you give is abundantly clear and the overwhelming love that is felt is genuine and real and you carry that with you always.
It is remarkable that you do not have to speak the local language at all, because when you work in the trenches together and share mutual love, compassion and respect for one another, your message and goal is always understood. That is the most remarkable part.
I've never left a culture or country without profound love for the people and all my new friends, and I always carry them and that experience with me. My philanthropic life is my most rewarding life, and the part of who I am that makes me the most proud. I'm grateful for all of these experiences and I absolutely treasure these trips and moments and will continue this work always."
Art Kaslow, DDS
“As a Rotarian and a Dentist, I have had the opportunity to serve humanitarian and dental services all around the world. However, my last service trip with the Linda Vista Foundation to Guatemala was in a class of its own. The impact this organization makes; the broad and sensible relationships with local non-profits; and just as importantly, the cultural exchange and immediate benefits to the host nation is unparalleled. I will put any missions with this foundation in preference to anywhere else. 10 Stars!”
joe brown
“Traveling to Guatemala in February of 2023 with the Solvang Rotary Club and under the guidance of Stu Gildred of the Linda Vista Foundation was a terrific experience. We visited a number of non-profit educational, medical, and water engineering organizations dedicated to helping the underserved. We spent two days at a secluded village working with ASOCAVIVA and the local residents putting in a new water well. Two of our group, who are dentists, donated their services at the Escuintla Hospital Dental Clinic. The Rotary Club of Escuintla took us to visit a nearby coffee farm where there were plans to build a school and promote echo-tourism. Stu and the Linda Vista Foundation did an excellent job of organizing our trip. Guatemala is a beautiful country and I hope to go again soon.”
Dr. Robert Brugnone
My experience with the Linda Vista Foundation and Solvang Rotary in Guatemala was truly life-changing. The trip allowed me to be part of a dedicated team providing dental services and digging wells for the local community. The impact we made on the lives of these wonderful people was immense. The collaboration between organizations and the warm hospitality of the Guatemalan community made this journey unforgettable. Grateful for the opportunity to make a difference!