Highway to Mexico Project transforms communities through Rotary service
What began with the donation of a single Handi-van to Mazatlán 30 years ago has grown into a life-changing Rotary partnership delivering emergency vehicles, medical equipment, and hope to communities throughout Mexico.
Mazatlán was a city with no Handi-van transportation for disabled individuals at the time. Past District Governor Pepe Sanchez recalls the Rotary Club President of his club in tears as he received and handed over the keys to the Mayor of the city. The gift was the result of a casual Rotary conversation that ultimately changed lives.
“This story of one donation, of one vehicle was just the beginning.”
The following year, Rotarians delivered a firetruck. The Highway to Mexico Project in District 5370 had begun.
Past District Governor Pepe Sanchez describes that first donation as the start of a project that now includes Rotary Districts 5370 and 5360 in Canada, along with multiple Rotary Districts throughout Mexico.
Never in his wildest dreams did he imagine that the donation of one Handi-van would grow to the scale and impact the project has today.
Rotary volunteers coordinate donations and transportation efforts
Rotary District 5360, representing southern Alberta and western Saskatchewan, has participated in the Los Amigos Project for 13 trips. During those trips, more than 70 vehicles have been donated to communities throughout Mexico. A recent review showed that only one of those vehicles is no longer in service.
In District 5360, a dedicated group of Rotarians from several clubs meets throughout the year to raise funds, often through District grants, while also collecting donated vehicles, firefighter gear, medical equipment, and other valuable supplies.
This year, the group transported 15 children’s bicycles donated by another service club in their community. In previous years, donated musical instruments for an after-school music band program filled an entire school bus. Every year, wheelchairs, walkers, and crutches are delivered to support individuals in Mexican communities.
“Service Above Self!”
Finding donated firetrucks and Handi-vans requires persistence and partnerships. In Alberta, these vehicles age out after 25 years of service and can no longer be registered as commercial vehicles. Rotary clubs request that municipalities donate the vehicles, and often those requests are answered.
The project also depends on volunteer drivers. Each vehicle includes two Rotarians, one driving and one serving as a spotter and radio operator. The teams rotate every two hours during fuel and rest stops. Some vehicles, including firetrucks, require drivers to have additional certifications such as air brake endorsements.
Highway to Mexico Project builds Rotary fellowship across borders
The journey itself lasts seven days and includes approximately eight hours of driving daily. Vehicles travel in a convoy with the slowest vehicle leading the group. Maintaining visual contact between vehicles is critical, while radio communication helps relay important information.
As the trip progresses, the vehicles often develop personalities and nicknames tied to their quirks and histories. One firetruck earned the name “MacGyver” because it constantly needed repairs and adjustments during the drive. Another became known as “Hot Flash” after persistent radiator issues.
During the past two years, the convoy has included a heavy-duty mechanic, providing valuable support for aging vehicles unaccustomed to such long-distance travel.
The conditions can be challenging. Many of the older vehicles lack air conditioning, and the heat can be exhausting. Volunteers rely on frequent breaks, hydration, ice, and hearing protection while travelling in the noisy firetrucks.
“Who wants to drive or ride in a Firetruck? I do!!”
Accommodation is carefully coordinated through hotels along the route. Over time, Rotary leaders sought ways to engage American Rotarians during the journey. Their outreach led to a strong relationship with Rotarians in Kingman, Arizona, who now billet Canadian participants in their homes.
The Kingman Rotary connection has become one of the highlights of the trip. This year, local Rotarians donated additional medical equipment to accompany supplies brought from Canada for communities in Mexico.
Emergency vehicles save lives in communities throughout Mexico
Arriving in Mazatlán marks the end of the driving portion for the Canadian Rotarians, but the work continues as the vehicles and donations are delivered to communities in need.
Key ceremonies include local dignitaries, Rotarians, firefighters, and community members. Meals prepared by local residents are often shared as heartfelt expressions of gratitude.
The emotional impact of receiving a firetruck, Handi-van, ambulance, or school bus is profound. For many communities and Bomberos, the donated vehicles represent safety, opportunity, and hope.
When “Little Red” was delivered to the community of Tepetitlan last year, the entire fire department arrived at the station with their families to celebrate.
One firefighter’s wife tearfully expressed her gratitude for the donated firefighting uniforms.
“With your donation of proper Fire Fighting uniforms I know that my husband will be safe when he is fighting fires, and he will come home to us at the end of his day.”
The project’s impact extends beyond ceremonies. Newspaper headlines have highlighted how Canadian Rotary firetrucks helped save a 24-story building by reaching flames inaccessible to local equipment. Other reports described how donated “Jaws of Life” rescue equipment was used to save individuals trapped in a vehicle fire before the official key ceremony even took place.
The hats and shirts provided by Mexican Rotary partners commemorate each year of the project. This year’s theme, “Lucky 13,” includes the slogan “We Save Lives” embroidered above the Canadian and Mexican flags.
The Highway to Mexico Project continues to demonstrate Rotary’s power to engage communities, expand international partnerships, and save lives every single day.
