Hearts & Hands 22nd group returned home yesterday. Four teams completed 60 stoves in the community of Los Chivitos. It was not an easy project due to lots of rain during the week. It made for very muddy, wet conditions. However; enthusiasm did not wain and despite awful conditions, the volunteers worked on. It was a very fun group with all but one being repeaters. Rebeca and I have an easier job when the group is volunteers who have come before.
During the 8 days in Uspantan, we had 2 inaugurations of schools- La Lagunita Chipaj and Baxil. These events are always full of speeches and food. I really appreciate the volunteers attending these events as they tend to be long with many speeches. Guatemalans like to give thanks through words and food. It usually is 3 to 4 hours long.
These two schools complete the first group of 4 with our partners of Rotary Clubs, Municipality of Uspantan, and the COCODEs and residents of each community. We have another inauguration on Oct. 4th at Chipaj. The exciting news is we will be able to start construction on the next school- 15 Septiembre immediately. It is good timing as this one must be done while the students are out of school for the year- October to January.
Our visits to the schools with Bill Lawless was lots of fun. It is so rewarding to see how the students are enjoying the new classrooms. We had an especially good time at 15 Septiembre where some students performed dance and songs for us. What a group of talented kids ! Most enjoyable !
Our step into the world of proper nutrition was successful. Nancy Hayes began a program in Los Chivitos of good nutrition to the principal, teachers, parents and students. She was assisted by our staff, Bety, and Delores, a resident of the area. They made a fantastic team and opened the door for us to continue this program. Many thanks to all three for getting us started. Good nutrition is so important to having healthy kids that will attend school and learn easier. Hopefully, many more good reports to follow in this area.
I am in Guatemala City resting for 2 days. Rebeca and I will return to Uspantan on Sunday. We will be accompanied by the Ripple Effect Program administrators, and 2 Canadian government reps that will visit all our schools for 3 days. Victor Hugo Figuero, Mayor of Uspantan, will accompany us as well.
Will end for now. Much more to report after the next 2 weeks. Hope the volunteers returned home safely.
Jan
