I recently traveled to the country of Guatemala where I once lived as a child. When I was 7 years old my parents brought me back to America where I grew up and was blessed with many opportunities that allowed me to accomplish my dreams and make my family proud. During this trip to Guatemala I realized that although I am not rich, I have a life that many people in Guatemala will never experience. I got to see my youngest nephews who where extremely happy playing with a little soda cap pretending that it was a little toy soldier. I immediately went to get them some little toys and a jenga and it literally was the best moment of their life. They even said that I made their dreams come true. I couldn't believe that a little toy would do so much for them. My little nephews work harder than adults here in America, I saw them taking care of cows, pigs and other animals that they have, and then, they would continue playing with their little toys. Their living conditions simply were unacceptable. They were covered in mosquito bites and didn't even have air conditioning considering that they live in a costal area that is often almost 100 degrees. I took them out to some pools so that they could see something different and I simply wish I could do more.

I would love to update their house so that it can be sealed or protected from mosquitos and if possible even give them some type of air conditioning. I brought them some solar lights as their area is a bit remote and wanted to brighten their nights a bit and they loved them! Their dad does not have a car and usually carries them on a little 100cc motorcycle and I would eventually also like to get them at least a quad or something so that they can be carried in a safer manner. There are a million different ideas in my mind right now but unfortunately I can't help them as much as I want. 

Anyone willing to visit the area and meet some amazing people can do so. I guarantee that you will be happy with the people you will meet there. Let's help jump start the life of these kids and their family and give them some of the basic things that we have in America which to them are basically riches.

*****update*****

I cannot believe the amount of support I've  received. Everyone thank you so much for your donations and advice!!

After hearing different ideas from people below you will find what my first small goals will be.

(1) Take Manuel to get his eyes looked at. He has an issue with crossed eyes which I was informed that it was not from birth. I want to see if he needs glasses or if a correction can be made to help him.

(2) buy 2 bicycles so that they can play and also to help them so that they do not have to walk too far.

(3) buy shoes, clothes, school supplies

(4) bigger plan - figure out how to facilitate feeding and drinking of cows and other animals so that the kids are out of danger.

I have also started a Facebook page with the same name of this project to show the progress and for transparency as I want everyone to see exactly where the donations are going and how you are helping these 2 strong boys and their families.

Thank you so much!!!!