About Us

CACTES is a not-for-profit organization based in Vancouver, Canada, working for social equality locally and internationally. On the global scale, we direct our efforts in international development through our three pillars: health and sanitation, education and economy. In the Greater Vancouver region, we run various programs to help those living below the poverty line as well as other estranged groups. By advocating for and administering projects in these domains, we hope to inspire a generation of change-makers ready to invest in a more promising future. CACTES' efforts to alleviate poverty around the world have been recognized by both the local and global community. Our achievements are many, including the prestigious YMCA Peace Medallion and consultations by the United Nations on our work in developing countries.

Since our founding in July 2013, we have adopted a cooperative, pedagogic approach to our project-facilitation strategy. We consult the villagers on the changes they want to see, then invest in sustainable methods to implement the suggestions. Through our hands-on project execution, the villagers then become the main participants in building the future they envision. Consequently, they acquire the skills necessary for future project renovation. Our symbol, the cactus, is a direct representation of empowerment through hard times. Through our collaborative efforts, we aim to inspire hope for a brighter future.

Our Partners

We partner with various grassroots organizations on the ground to facilitate our field operations.