Our History
Changing the world, one child at a time!
After more than 60 children were treated in medical programs outside our state borders, our story evolved. In 2012, we were finally able to provide access to high-quality, specialized pediatric care at Salvatierra Hospital in La Paz, in a successful model of cooperation with the government.
To this day, we remain committed to supporting the continuity of treatment for cancer, heart defects, and other critical health issues, with professional support, supplies, training, and innovative equipment that literally saves the lives of thousands of children every year. Since 2006, we also continue to be a source of support for local organizations doing their part in promoting and advocating for children’s general health and well-being, disabilities, prevention, and mental health.
To improve the health of Children and Adolescents
in Baja California Sur.
The values and principles that guide us are:
LOVE for the community
SERVICE in favor of Southern Baja families
RESPECT for the dignity of all individuals
TRUST to build relationships based on transparency
COLLABORATION because together we achieve more
EXCELLENCE to fulfill our mission effectively
HOPE to change the world, one child at a time!
Our journey has changed the history of Baja California Sur
2024
The first stone is laid for a CRIT in Los Cabos, marking the first phase of a campus that will transform the quality of life of children in the municipality, continuing the dream of our founder. The first pediatric specialist joins Salvatierra Hospital after graduating from the first generation of pediatric residents at the same institution.
2023
Special collaborative projects such as the Baja California Sur Cleft Program and the BCS Playroom Network grow and are consolidated with the support of Strategic Allies. Los Cabos Children’s Foundation is confirmed as the CEMEFI Regional Partner in BCS.
2022
The alliance with Smile Train begins to provide comprehensive care to children and adolescents with cleft lip and/or palate. Hosts of the 3rd national conference of childhood cancer organizations.
2021
The first virtual fundraising event. Its success enabled support for 28 programs during the pandemic.
2020
Teamwork with the Los Cabos Community Alliance in fundraising for the purchase and operation of the Teleton Bus. Baja California Sur Community Alliance was founded benefiting 97,000 families and 33 healthcare institutions in the first 6 months of the COVID-19 pandemic.
2019
Accreditation in Institutionality and Transparency (AIT) with the optimal level received from the Mexican Center for Philanthropy (CEMEFI) .
2018
Baja California Sur is the 3rd state in Mexico with the highest 5-year survival rate: 71% when the national average is 57%.
2017
The State Pediatric Cardiology Program is accredited by the Mexican Government to receive federal funding. A total of 114 cardiac surgeries, 100 catheterizations, and over 1,000 evaluations are performed.
2016
Programs supported increase by 64% and beneficiaries by 104%. Local pediatric cardiology team is completed and continues training.
2015
The local pediatric cardiology team begins training with medical personnel from Omaha, U.S.A.
2014
The Pediatric Intensive Care Unit is established at Salvatierra Hospital. The Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Unit is accredited by the Mexican Government to receive federal funding.
2013
The Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Unit opens at Salvatierra Hospital in La Paz. The first open-heart surgery on a child is performed in La Paz by Dr. James Hammel and his team from Omaha, with 21 children receiving local care for the first time.
2012
The first child with cancer begins her treatment in Baja California Sur.
2011
Partnership with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital to explore the possibility of opening a Pediatric Cancer Unit in Baja California Sur. The State Government joins the effort.
2009
Training of local doctors begins in La Paz.
2008
Achievement of tax-exempt status as a charitable organization in Mexico.
2007
First cancer patients were sent to the Pediatric Hospital in Sinaloa, Mexico. Casa Valentina Culiacan opens its doors to provide a home for patients undergoing treatment.
2006
Established as a Civil Association in Mexico. First financial support to local non-profit organizations.
2005
Established as a non-profit corporation in the United States and obtained tax-exempt status under chapter 501(c)(3) of the IRS. The first fundraising event took place in Los Cabos.
2004
First contact with Omaha Children’s Hospital & Medical Center for treating children with congenital heart defects.
2003
The first cancer patient is treated at Avera McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls, U.S.
2002
The idea was born thanks to Tom Walsh’s genuine desire to help children and adolescents with cancer who lived in Los Cabos without access to treatment in Baja California Sur.
Board of Directors
Our board of directors is committed to our community and to the sustainability of our mission.
Not only do they support our organization financially, but they also donate their time and talents.
Rob Harris
Board ChairFelipe Fernandez
Vice Chair
Larry Hendrickson
Richard Erickson
Mark Conzemius
Glenna Tanenbaum
Darin Nelson
Emily Rice
Kara Bigos
Chris Popolo
Lauren Lemke
Team
Annual Tax Return (990)
Los Cabos Children’s Foundation, Inc. is a nonprofit organization in the United States under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS code.
Los Cabos Children’s Foundation A.C. is a civil association in Mexico with tax exempt status ('donataria autorizada') from the federal fiscal authorities (SAT).
Strategic Allies
Our Strategic Allies help us achieve our mission. It is thanks to them that we can multiply the effects of our
actions with the goal of serving the families of Baja California Sur.
