Program Calendar

Mariposa’s programs are inspired by two central drivers: climate and community.

After years of work at the grassroots level, our team understands that it is impractical to expect students to learn during the heat waves of September or that girls need extra support as they experience extreme vulnerability throughout seasons of floods and heavy rain in November. Instead, our approach is to integrate the environment that surrounds us, from the expansive oceans, coral reefs, and mangroves to mountains and forests, allowing the girls to explore and absorb the very best the island that Hispaniola has to offer.

Health & Wellness (September–October)

The school year begins with a focus on health, self-awareness, identity, and goal setting. In the hottest months of the year, programming centers around outdoor activities, swimming, and wellness. Girls of all ages have the opportunity to meet privately and in small groups with trained psychologists, participate in sexual and reproductive health workshops, and receive mentorship from trusted professionals. Girls also participate in Navigating Her Future Program and gain exposure to professional environments which introduces them to a variety of professions and ignites their ability to envision themselves in a new way. health, Older Mariposas receive professional development and college application support, while Mariposa Volandos work on university preparation, job training, and resume building.

Arts & Theatre (November–December)

As hurricane season ends and the winter rains arrive, we shift to arts and theatre. This semester includes music, art, dance, and theatre, encouraging expression and confidence-building. All age groups explore reading and creative movement, while older girls engage with cultural and historical themes through art and literature. The girls are encouraged to be curious about self-expression and given the resources they need in order to learn and grow.

Global Studies (January–March)

Cabarete is a unique location, attracting visitors from all around the world and allowing the Mariposa girls to meet people from around the world in a safe space. Thus, developing one of the most innovative and effective Global Studies in the world where the Mariposa girls are introduced to a variety of languages, foods, music, histories, and so much more.

Since Experiential Learning is at the heart of everything we do, we ate our way through the world during the Global Study Program in our Obuntu Culinary School and had so much fun working with local restaurants to learn about international cuisines. We went to Italy with Bliss, India with Blue Moon, Mexico with Gorditos, learned to use chopsticks, made pancakes with real maple syrup, celebrated Mardi Gras with bananas foster and visited Herdman's Chocolate Factory in Puerto Plata.

The finale of Global Studies is celebrated with The annual Mariposa Olympics–the perfect culmination of international programs! Girls of all ages participate in sports competitions including swimming, gymnastics, volleyball, basketball, and track & field. The spirit of teamwork, leadership, and self-discipline comes alive through friendly competitions and community celebration. Chess provides a quiet counterpart that develops strategy and focus across age groups.

Environmental (April)

Spring is for nature. Programs moves outdoors as the climate warms up, immersing girls in the ecosystems around them. They become Citizen Scientists, Eco-Heroes, and community educators, learning through gardening, environmental field trips, and sustainability workshops. The curriculum emphasizes the connection between the health of our communities and the health of our planet.

Tutoring (May)

As the academic year comes to a close, May is dedicated to providing focused, individualized attention for each girl. Through one-on-one tutoring, small group instruction, and mentorship, students receive the academic support they need to prepare for final exams, meet graduation requirements, and build confidence in their learning. Whether strengthening foundational skills or reviewing key concepts, this time allows each Mariposa to thrive with personalized guidance and encouragement.

Summer Camp (June–July)

Summer is a special time at The Mariposa Center for Girls. Not only is it a wonderful culmination of the year’s programs, it’s when our staff, volunteers and students spend the most time together simply enjoying a safe space where girls can just be girls. 

For girls living in poverty, summer can be a dangerous time. With school being closed, most of them are spending more time at home, taking on the burden of domestic responsibilities and are at increased risk of early marriage and childbirth. A lack of safe, open spaces during the summer is a huge contributing factor to girls being forgotten, falling through the cracks and forced into difficult situations that perpetuate the cycle of generational poverty.

Summer as a Mariposa is a game changer. It means she spends her days building strong friendships, exploring personal interests, getting out into nature and just having fun - all in a safe and supportive environment. 

Girls learn to swim and surf which allows them to feel like part of the Cabarete community,  mountain bike in nature and become good stewards of the earth, improve their English skills, and fuel their creativity with music and art all while being mentored by professional, compassionate and trusted adults. They also receive consistent, nutritious meals, health care, and so much more.

Mariposa Summer Camp helps ensure a high retention rate amongst participants. Summer is the most critical time of the year and our amazing camp is only possible because of the support of our generous donors and the dedicated staff and volunteer

Holiday Breaks

Summer Break
After the excitement of summer camp, August serves as a vital period of rest and restoration. Mariposa girls and staff take a well-deserved break to recharge with their families, enjoy unstructured time, and integrate what they've learned over the past year.

Winter Break
Late December and early January are quieter as girls spend time at home life during the holiday season. For those who need extra academic support, we offer tutoring sessions to reinforce learning and address individual needs. This tailored approach ensures girls stay on track with their studies while still enjoying time with community during the festive season.