Dear Friends and Family:

I am writing to you today to share our back-to-school fundraiser for PROJECT JOY/PROYECTO ALEGRIA! We are raising funds for The Alejandrina Benabe elementary school in Luquillo, Puerto Rico. Currently, the school needs funds, materials and supplies for its dedicated staff and amazing students to do their absolute best work in the 2024-25 school year. 

I first learned of the school following the devastating hurricane that struck Puerto Rico in 2017. This community in Campo SABANA, Luquillo, impacted the hearts of our church family when we learned how they faced significant challenges in providing a quality educational environment for students in the aftermath of the storm. Staff and families united in bold and loving efforts to sustain the school’s high academic expectations and sense of family. 

My husband, Humberto  and I have personally "adopted" the school, visiting frequently, and spending time with the staff and children. We are always amazed by their humility, passion and creativity. As Educators ourselves, creating PROJECT JOY/PROYECTO ALEGRIA is our way of providing a way for others to join us in this effort. We value the joy that we share with the teachers and students by simply lightening their burdens. We love to hear the teachers share stories and break bread with us to show their appreciation.

HOW CAN YOU HELP? I am glad you asked! You can contribute to this fundraiser! We have planned a visit to the school for early September. Donations will be allocated towards educational materials, office supplies, extracurricular activities, and infrastructure improvements, enabling the school to create an optimal environment for its students.

Your donation, no matter the amount, will directly contribute to the lives of deserving children and spread lots of JOY/ALEGRIA! Let's make this a collaboration- you are a blessing!

We will keep you updated on the progress of the school.

On behalf of the entire school community, we extend our heartfelt gratitude.

Thank you!

Jacqueline and Humberto Velásquez