Supporter of the Month: Andy Rose

"It was a great experience. It was super fun. And I hope to come back. I'd like to come back with my older daughter. So keep doing what you're doing, and hopefully we'll see each other again." Andy Rose on his visit to Na’atik

This month, we had the opportunity to interview Andy Rose, a new Na’atik donor who visited us in February 2026. Andy wanted to know more about Na’atik and personally experience Na’atik’s commitment to the community. He spent time with Na’atik’s founder and director, attended a sample Spanish class, and explored Felipe Carrillo Puerto. We are thankful for his visit and hope he enjoyed his time in Carrillo. 

How did you first learn about Na’atik, and what inspired you to become a donor?

I first learned about Na’atik online. I was looking for a total immersion program. I was interested in going to Colombia because I use a website called Spanishland all the time, and they have a total immersion program. But my children and I were talking about going to Cancún, and I went and looked for Spanish immersion programs near Cancún, and the school came up. And then when I saw it was a nonprofit, that was something that I was super interested in. Both my girls work in nonprofit jobs. They're do-gooders, and they loved the idea as well. 

What stood out to you the most when you learned about Na’atik’s work?

I was just taken by what I'm sure you guys are doing for the community. I think being bilingual is super important. I regret not having started this when I was young. Like an aside, my younger daughter says the only parenting mistake that we made was not putting her in bilingual preschool.

Both my girls are fluent in Spanish and did this kind of immersion. One lived in Barcelona, and one lived in Sevilla for a year, so they're super encouraging about this. But I just think that the nonprofit profit aspect and from what I could see with the little kids in the classroom, Na’atik is giving everybody [in the community] a step up.

What does contributing to education mean to you?

I think it's very important. [Education] is the way you get better, the way you improve your life and you guys are paying it forward. You're doing good deeds. And I just see how important education is, and the opportunity that you're affording these kids. It's great.

How do you think learning English can change the future of our students?

Like I said, I think in today's world, being bilingual, especially English and Spanish, just gives you one more tool, one more opportunity. It gives you the ability to have one more opportunity that you wouldn't otherwise maybe have if you're not bilingual. I have a friend in Colombia who I call (she's my tutor), and we talk, but she doesn't speak a word of English. She's just started to learn English in school. And I just think it's so important.

What kind of impact do you hope your donation will have on the students and the wider community?

Some people in the U.S. may think donating a smaller amount of dollars won’t make a difference, but making that donation to a nonprofit like Na’atik can really help an organization and the broader community. I know my lifestyle is quite different from many people’s, so I’m grateful that I was able to visit Na’atik and make a donation. 

What message would you give to others who are considering making a donation?

If you can afford it, do it. And, you know, it will mean more to them than it means to you. So if you're lucky enough to be able to do it, you should do it.

What advice would you give to the students who are part of Na’atik?

Don't take for granted the opportunity that you have.

We invite you to contribute to our cause and support the education of our community. By donating $600 USD or more within a year, your name will be added to one of the leaves on our Ceiba tree, a special display where we show our students the names of those who believe in their potential and support them in continuing their studies.

To learn more about Na’atik’s English language program for local and Indigenous students in Felipe Carrillo Puerto, visit ourImpact Page. We are only able to provide this much needed program thanks to the support ofgenerous donors and the funds raised from our award winningMaya and Spanish Immersion Program. If you would like to support our mission please considerdonating today or take a look at ourimmersion programsandonline class packages.