Areas of Focus for our Projects
Education –
Our main interests are in the areas of preschool programs and after-school tutoring programs at the elementary school level. We support these programs by paying for a teacher’s salary (approximately $1500 per year), plus materials and training for the teachers and monthly meetings with the mothers. If students do not pass first grade, they often stop attending school. Going to preschool provides an opportunity for children to achieve success in the first grade. Also, tutoring is essential for indigenous students who speak a Mayan language in the home. Spanish is their second language and many struggle with academic subjects. Many parents did not receive adequate education and are unable to help their children with homework.
Nutrition — Another principle focus is in supporting small rural schools with nutrition programs. All of the children in our projects receive a nutritional drink each day (called Chispuditos) that contains vitamins and minerals. The mothers attend workshops where they learn about good nutrition, and they are encouraged to bring healthy snacks to school.
Community projects – Projects for economic development are also considered such as a weaving cooperative for women. The Mayan weavers are renowned as textile artists and this keeps them connected to their heritage. It gives them the possibility to earn money, develop pride in their skills, contribute to the family income, provide for their children, build sustainable futures for themselves and their families, and empower them to change their lives by working together.