Get Involved & News

There are many ways to stay connected with the Camala Foundation and follow the impact of our work beyond making a donation.

News & Updates

Dear friends,

I want to express my deepest gratitude to everyone who was connected to our event yesterday. To those who were able to attend and support us in person—thank you for sharing your time, your encouragement, and your generosity. Your contributions will directly open doors for children who need access to education, dignity, nutrition, and real opportunities.

To those who could not be there but still support our mission in spirit, prayer, or through different forms—you are equally important. This journey belongs to all of us, whether present physically or not. Your belief in our mission gives us strength to keep moving.

Yesterday was more than a moment; it was a beginning. Together, we demonstrated that our community is capable of showing love, unity, and real action for the children in need. We are committed to giving our very best, to honoring every contribution, and to turning all support into measurable impact.

We remain united, hopeful, and determined. And together—we will make a lasting difference.

Thank you for standing with us.
Thank you for believing.
Our work continues, and our mission is just beginning.

With gratitude,
Mario Camala
Founder & President

Camala Foundation Turns One — A Year of Hope and Opportunity

We are excited to celebrate our first year of progress at the Camala Foundation! On November 25, 2024, we officially marked the beginning of this incredible journey — a journey dedicated to creating hope, dignity, and opportunity for children and young people connected to Guinea-Bissau and the West African diaspora.

Join us in reflecting on the milestones we’ve achieved, the partnerships we’ve forged, and the meaningful steps we’ve taken toward our mission. To learn more about our achievements, future plans, and our upcoming event, click below to read our full 1-Year Anniversary Message.

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Camala Foundation Turns One — Anniversary Message

Today marks one year since the Camala Foundation was officially approved by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. On November 25, 2024, we received the legal confirmation that brought this vision to life — a vision rooted in hope, dignity, and opportunity for children and young people connected to Guinea‑Bissau and the West African diaspora.

During this first year, we dedicated ourselves to building a strong and responsible foundation. Before launching public activities or programs, we focused on essential nonprofit responsibilities — governance, structure, compliance, transparency, and strategic partnerships. We chose to prepare every step with rigor so that everything we build stands on integrity and professionalism.

A major milestone this year was the signing of our first International Cooperation Agreement in Education and Social Development with Associação Semear Sonhos in Guinea-Bissau. Together, we committed to: expanding access to education; supporting students through scholarships, meals, uniforms, and books; strengthening digital literacy and teacher training; developing community learning centers; and engaging the diaspora in mentorship and educational exchange.

We also strengthened our legal and governance backbone. Through the support of Lawyers Clearinghouse, we are receiving pro bono legal assistance from two major law firms:

Kirkland & Ellis LLP (Boston) — helping us improve our Board governance structure and internal policies.

Ropes & Gray (New York) — assisting with the development of our formal Volunteer Agreement.

These partnerships demonstrate our commitment to transparency, compliance, and building the Camala Foundation on a strong legal and ethical foundation.

As we celebrate our first year, we now move toward a defining moment:

Camala Foundation – Launch & Wine Tasting Fundraiser
December 5, 2025 — Boston

This will be our first public event, marking the official beginning of our mission in action and the start of our first education initiatives.

Thank you to all who have been with us since day one, and to those who have joined us along the way. Your support, trust, and encouragement mean more than words can express.

Together, we are planting seeds of opportunity — and the next chapter begins now.

With gratitude and purpose,
Mario Camala Founder & President

Camala Foundation Official Launch Event

We’re thrilled to announce the official launch of the Camala Foundation!

Join us for an inspiring evening as we celebrate this new chapter dedicated to empowering communities and creating lasting change.

Georgie’s Wine Bar, Downtown Boston

December 5, 2025

5:00 – 7:00 PM

What to Expect

A wine tasting fundraiser with light refreshments.

Meaningful conversations with supporters, partners, and community members.

A first look at our upcoming initiatives for 2026.

The chance to directly support education in Guinea-Bissau and provide scholarships for West African immigrant youth in the U.S.

Tickets

Reserve Your Spot Here

Together, we’ll sip, connect, and invest in education that changes lives.

Camala Foundation at the 12th Gala da JOYE – Texas

On October 4, 2025, the Camala Foundation was honored to participate in the 12th Gala da JOYE in Texas, a celebration of culture, excellence, and community leadership. Our presence at this important event reflected our mission to build bridges between the Guinean diaspora, West Africa, and the United States, while also highlighting our initiatives in education, healthcare, and economic empowerment. We thank JOYE and the organizing committee for creating such an inspiring space and look forward to future collaborations that uplift our communities worldwide.

We were honored to be present at the 2025 Nonprofit Excellence Awards by @massnonprofitnetwork.

We move with calm, but with purpose.

No rush — only clarity.

The future is now, because we’re shaping it.

Building Strategic Partnerships for Greater Impact

Excerpt: As a new nonprofit, the Camala Foundation is actively working to build partnerships and apply for grants to expand its reach and impact.

The Camala Foundation was founded with a vision to connect the West African diaspora in the U.S. with communities back home in Guinea-Bissau. To bring this vision to life, we are actively engaging with organizations, universities, and funding institutions to build partnerships that strengthen our capacity. From early dialogues with healthcare groups to women’s empowerment initiatives, our goal is to leverage partnerships that align with our mission and values. We are also in the process of applying for grants that will enable us to scale our programs and sustain long-term impact.

Partnerships are the backbone of nonprofit growth. By working together with aligned organizations, we can create greater change than by working alone.

If your organization is interested in partnering with us, please get in touch.