La Bamba

La Bamba Trip to Mexico

La Bamba is an annual (spring) trip to Tijuana, Mexico. Its purpose is to offer students an opportunity to volunteer their time, talent and heart in the colonias of Tijuana.  Tasks vary from shelter construction and repair, cooking and serving food, visiting local jails and orphanages to playing with children. La Bamba is a chance to make friends, learn about issues facing people around the third world, and work side by side with others to improve lives. Most of all, it is a chance to open our hearts and minds to the beauty of diverse people and cultures, and to begin to ask ourselves why there is inequality and what we can do to alleviate it.  Students are encouraged to question and challenge injustice, to unravel stereotypes about hunger, poverty and inequities in the world.

Some students report: "It was the best week I've ever had. I thought we would travel to Mexico and feel sorry for them. I felt sorry for us." Another student wrote: "All the material things I was beginning to think were important now seem meaningless in this small colonia. I really feel God through my love for these people."

What will we do on these projects in Mexico? Nothing glamorous. We choose to work alongside the Mexicans helping in whatever way we can, usually with a project that will provide better housing, a better life situation, or a better moment for someone in need.  Through some simple work, there is a great opportunity to develop better understanding, love and mutual appreciation for both American and Mexicans. Students who expose themselves to this Third World culture find themselves stretched as they work, play, worship and live with the people in the colonias. People return deeply challenged with their personal view toward materialism, their walk with God, and a world view.

Trip Dates:

Spring Semester:   Mar. 10-14, 2009

 PLEASE NOTE:  A valid Passport will be required of all persons entering and leaving Mexico.  If you are interested in going on this trip, we suggest you apply for a passport immediately, due to the large numbers of applications being handled by the government offices. 

Contact Information:

Fr. Bob Haberman

Ann Hathaway #2

415.485.3207