Movement in Support of Our Environmental Treasures

A Way of Learning, Living, and Leading

Since 2006, MANTA has been more than a program. It’s a way of learning, living, and leading—helping young people in Vieques connect deeply with their island, care for its natural and cultural treasures, and grow into the leaders of tomorrow.

Rooted in the environment and spirit of Vieques, MANTA cultivates curiosity, responsibility, and pride—values that are transforming how a generation understands its home and its role in the world.

Our Vision

MANTA was born out of a simple truth: protecting Vieques’ fragile ecosystems requires long-term investment in its people. By teaching youth to see their island as a living classroom—and connecting it to Puerto Rico and the wider world—we prepare them to carry lessons forward, ensuring Vieques has guardians for generations to come.

How MANTA Works

Summer Engagement

MANTA is divided into four age groups, each designed to meet students where they are in their learning and growth.

Each summer, children and youth ages 5–17 take part in a journey of discovery that turns all of Vieques into their classroom. From beaches and reefs to lagoons, forests, farms, and cultural landmarks, participants explore every corner of the island through outdoor, age-appropriate programs that combine science, adventure, and community.

Mini MANTA

ages 5–8

An introduction to nature through exploration, games, and simple field activities that build comfort, curiosity, and care for the environment.

MANTA Raya

ages 9–12

Focuses on ecosystems, food security, and citizen science through snorkeling, hiking, farm visits, and hands-on conservation projects.

MANTA Mix

ages 12–14

A bridge between exploration and leadership, encouraging teamwork, responsibility, and deeper scientific observation

MANTA

ages 15–17

Emphasizes leadership, environmental careers, and ecotourism. Students take part in advanced research, boating, and volunteer projects in conservation and community resilience.

MANTASTIC

A 1- Week Program

A one-week version of the program that welcomes participants from Vieques, Puerto Rico, and abroad, emphasizing leadership, cross-cultural learning, and shared responsibility.

All groups also travel to Puerto Rico’s main island to visit conservation areas, science centers, and cultural sites—comparing ecosystems, meeting scientists, and discovering how lessons learned elsewhere can be applied back home in Vieques.

Through this experience, MANTA cultivates knowledge, pride, and leadership—preparing young Viequenses to protect their island and carry its lessons into the wider world.

Year-Round Engagement

School Outreach: Educators bring microscopes, live specimens, and interactive workshops to every school in Vieques. Students explore topics like climate change, natural resources, disaster preparedness, and the microscopic world.

Community Connections: Beyond schools, MANTA brings learning to the Boys & Girls Club, Montessori programs, special education classrooms, senior centers, and even visiting university groups.

Why MANTA Matters

This is how generational change begins—by instilling knowledge, values, and confidence in young people today so they can protect Vieques tomorrow.

Environmental Stewardship:

Students gain a deep sense of accountability for Vieques’ natural resources and their global connections.

Climate Readiness:

From hurricane preparedness to resilience training, youth learn to adapt and protect their communities.

Access for All:

In a community where over half of residents live below the poverty line, MANTA ensures that every child has the chance to participate in free, high-quality programs that fill critical gaps in the public school system.

Future Pathways:

Students are exposed to science, conservation, and eco-tourism as possible careers.

Proven Impact

20 years of consistent programming.

EPA Environmental Quality Award and recognition from the Puerto Rico Department of Education and DNER.

Hundreds of students served annually, with measurable growth in awareness, responsibility, and engagement.

Teachers, parents, and students alike request MANTA workshops year after year—demonstrating its role as an indispensable part of Vieques’ educational landscape.

Be Part of The Change

MANTA is more than activities—it’s a mindset that belongs to an entire community. With your support, we can continue to ensure that the next generation of Viequenses grows up prepared to protect their island and share its lessons with the world.