CLA — Conservation Learning Academy
View across the school forest in El Castillo

Sponsor a tree in El Castillo

Seedling with a name tag

What is a tree partnership?

The CLA school forest in El Castillo is more than reforestation: it's a living classroom. Every tree you take on is planted, cared for and observed by a student. Your sponsorship pays for the materials, the tools and the classes that happen around your tree — and you get regular updates on how it is doing.

About the CLA

How your sponsorship works

Three steps to become a sponsor

From picking a tree to your first photo update — here's what happens when you take on a sponsorship.

1. Pick a tree

Open the tree map on the homepage and choose the tree you'd like to sponsor. Trees that are still available are outlined in green.

To the tree map

2. Sponsor directly

The 'Become a sponsor' button takes you straight to the donation tool further down this page. Your tree code is shown there again — enter it as the reference when you fill in the form.

To the donation tool

3. You're on your way

After donating you'll get a confirmation by email. We follow up with a welcome mail, your sponsorship certificate and regular photos and news from your tree.

Questions? Write to us

Become a sponsor

Your tree sponsorship — right here

Pick your contribution and complete the sponsorship in a few steps. Payment is handled securely by the GLS Bank donation tool; your donation is tax-deductible in Germany.

Spendentool folgt in Kürze

The tree sponsorship donation tool will appear here once it is connected. Until then, you can reach us directly via the contact form.

Haven't picked a tree yet? No problem — donate without a reference and we'll find a suitable tree together and get in touch by email.

Common questions

Tree sponsorship FAQ

Quick answers

How much does a sponsorship cost?

The annual amount is still being finalised — we want it to be low enough that lots of people can join in. As soon as the number is set you'll find it here.

How long does a sponsorship run?

By default one year, renewing automatically until you cancel. Cancellation is informal — a quick email is enough.

Do I get a donation receipt?

Yes — the CLA is a recognised non-profit in Germany. From €300 upwards we issue a receipt automatically; below that a bank statement is enough for tax purposes.

Can I visit my tree?

Yes, by arrangement. The school forest is in El Castillo, Costa Rica. Let us know if you're travelling and we'll set up a visit with the school.

Still have questions?

If anything is unclear, or you'd rather talk to us before taking on a sponsorship — just write. We usually reply within a few days.