The Gente Buena Foundation works to make sure that the people and land of Mexico benefit from the global success of the tequila industry. We work hand-in-hand with local people and partners to support their well-being, protect their environment, and build vibrant communities together.
Our Approach
“It is not our role to identify problems or propose solutions. We are in the process of investigating with the people who have the reality of the place, have the reality of the work to then continue hand in hand towards well being“ – Therel Santos, Head of Impact
We are deeply committed to collaboration and community-driven impact. Our approach begins by partnering closely with local communities, academic institutions, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to identify our impact priorities. Through ongoing community engagement and active listening sessions, we ensure that our priorities remain dynamic and responsive to the evolving needs of the communities we serve. By fostering this continuous dialogue, we empower the voices of those directly affected by our initiatives, allowing us to tailor our efforts and resources where they are needed most. This collaborative, adaptive approach ensures that our philanthropic endeavors remain rooted in real-world impact and resonate with the communities we aim to support.
The Gente Buena Foundation set out not just to meet needs in Mexican communities, but to build a framework for tequila producers to work toward a more human-centered industry that supports the people and land that make their spirit possible.
Feature: WATER PROJECT
Every Home in San Pedro de los Landeros Now Has Clean, Reliable Water
Our community-wide water project in SPL is complete. Every resident now has access to clean and reliable water, returning hours once spent collecting or hauling water to work, school, and family. As one resident put it: “Before, I had to stay awake late into the night waiting for water. Now I have peace of mind.”
This is a milestone, not a finish line. We’re continuing our water work across the region so more families have this basic human right to live with the same certainty.
Our Why
For centuries before the Spanish arrived in the 16th century, the Tequillan people grew the blue agave plant, using it for food, textiles, and a treasured fermented drink. Tequila became official in 1974, when the Mexican government defined where and how real tequila could be made. But as tequila took off around the world, companies abandoned traditional practices to keep up with demand, leading to overharvesting, damaged soil, deforestation, and water shortages. At the same time, the families who have grown, harvested, and distilled tequila for generations have seen very little of the money it makes. The region lacks access to many basic human needs. That’s what the Gente Buena Foundation is here to change. We’re working toward a future where the people and communities of Jalisco can truly thrive.
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Gente Buena Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization.
Our tax identification number is 93-3700121.
* Gente Buena Foundation is not accepting grant proposals.
** The Gente Buena Foundation plans giving based on local research and community-generated goals. Solicitations will not be accepted.
