Mark Ely has led over 20 work trips since founding Pura Vida in 2003. He now mainly leads Project Tours while focusing on preparing other trip leaders. Mark serves as the executive director of Pura Vida.
Dave Godaire leads construction and medical teams for Pura Vida. Dave is a registered EMT and a volunteer firefighter. When not in Guatemala, he works as a civil engineer performing underwater inspections for the Bureau of Reclamation
Laura Richards leads construction teams for Pura Vida. She and her husband Mike are longtime Pura Vida supporters with a strong interest in improving access to quality education in rural Guatemala. Laura is a retired high school math teacher.
Janie Williams leads construction and English Camp teams for Pura Vida. Janie has been traveling to Guatemala with Pura Vida since 2012, and sponsors several students through the Pura Vida scholarship program. She holds a Master's degree in Teaching English as a Second Language.
John Williams leads construction teams for Pura Vida. John and his wife Sharon are faithful supporters of the John Wesley School and the Pura Vida scholarship program. John is a retired flight simulator technician for United Airlines.