In 1997, Jan and Bryson Garbett’s lives took an unexpected turn. Initially planning a family trip to Disney World, they stumbled upon a humanitarian aid opportunity in Mexico. Despite reservations and pre-booked flights, they took a leap of faith and embarked on a service trip that would change their lives forever.

The experience resonated deeply with the Garbett family, igniting a passion for service and a profound connection to rural Mexico. This initial journey sparked a new tradition of spending Christmas in Mexico, where they sought meaningful ways to contribute to the community. Inspired by the transformative power of education, they founded Escalera Foundation, symbolizing a ladder of opportunity for students in need.

For over 25 years, Escalera has been dedicated to providing scholarships for students to attend high school in rural and indigenous Chiapas. What began as a small gesture of support has blossomed into a movement, impacting the lives of over 125,000 students. Today, the Garbetts continue their mission, tirelessly seeking innovative ways to empower students to pursue their dreams and unlock their full potential.