Esperanza, a local Casco Viejo non-profit organization has been named a 2016 McNulty Prize Laureate from the prestigious Aspen Institute. The $100,000 prize is awarded to those who “use entrepreneurship to address important global social issues.” As a laureate the organization will receive an award of $10,000 to continue their mission of creating opportunities former gang member to improve their lives and the community at the same time.

As a result of Esperanza’s incredible work along with the revitalization and rebuilding of Casco Viejo by local businesses and developers the area is now the safest area in Panama City.

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This incredible organization has created businesses such as the Fortazleza Ex-Gang Member Tour  which is owned and operated by former gang members. Students at Casco Antiguo Spanish School and reserve the tour ($20/person) directly through the school.

Since launching the foundation in 2013, Esperanza has:

  • Graduated 43former gang members, 74%of whom are still employed to this day, 11 of whom operate their own businesses
  • Demobilized 3 rival gangs in Casco Viejo, significantly reducing crime and dramatically increasing touristic value of their former territories
  • Documented and proved their methodology to apply to new areas of the world

See their amazing work for yourself: