This February, I will return to work in a volunteer-supported Guatemalan community called Project Somos. As volunteers, we will help with planting, painting, playing with kids, construction, food prep, harvesting or whatever is needed. In Guatemala, poverty is prevalent. Many children are forced to drop out of school to work and support their families. Nearly one-half of Guatemala’s children under age five are chronically malnourished, one of the world's highest malnutrition rates. Play is often seen as frivolous. Project Somos provides a loving place for children to learn, healthy food to eat, and safe places to play and explore.
As some of you know, I was born in a Mayan (Qʼeqchiʼ) village. Last year I went on this trip and it was amazing. I love connecting with the children and feeling so at home looking out at the mountains. I can't wait to return to volunteer with the amazing folks at Project Somos, where 80% of the staff is indigenous (Kaqchikel). The cost for me to be there at Project Somos is $1100 and I also want to raise a $700 donation to Project Somos. I'm paying for my own flight and other incidental expenses. The total I need to raise is $1800.
This wonderful one-minute video explains the importance of Project Somos:
In this community, children arrive each morning to attend school. Through volunteers, they can also receive new and exciting classes such as farming, cooking, art, yoga, English and more. They also provide nutritious, organic farm-to-table food. But most importantly, kids are given a safe, loving environment where they can play, ride bikes, laugh and have fun. They can be carefree children, something they don't experience at home. Project Somos is also providing job opportunities, vocational training, and parenting classes to all the Mothers of children who attend school. Project Somos believes in listening, learning, and adapting to what their community has shown them they need. They are helping children and their families help themselves through nutrition, education, love and support that comes in many forms.
Project Somos
For more info on Project Somos Children's Village, go to https://projectsomos.org
Organizer
Catie Curtis
Organizer
Newton, MA