
Send the Children of Lake Atitlan to School
Donation protected
Hola Amigos!
Hello, My Dear Friends,
Greetings from Lake Atitlan, Guatemala! This is Anita once again.
Since 2016, I have been sending you this annual newsletter to update you on the lives of the children you've been so generous to support through your donations.
I can't adequately express my gratitude for your trust and involvement in this project. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for believing in both this initiative and in me.
I strive to make a meaningful difference in this small village, following the example set for me when I was introduced to tourism. I consider myself privileged and blessed to be in the position I am, and that drives my desire to extend opportunities to the next generation. I firmly believe that education is key to providing them with a brighter future, a sentiment I'm sure many of you share.
When I became a volunteer at the public school in San Pedro, it marked a pivotal moment in my life. My own experience of learning English—memorizing words, interacting with tourists, and practicing persistently—has been an invaluable gift. And now, I wish to pass that gift along to the next generation.
This project was inspired by a meeting with a Canadian woman who wanted to sponsor two children's educational tuition. Her act of kindness prompted other children to question why they couldn't receive the same help. When I saw children wearing torn or hole-ridden shoes, it broke my heart. Writing this brings chills to my body and tears to my eyes.
My core belief is that everyone is born for a specific reason and special purpose. We must be the love that humanity needs. I couldn't have achieved what I have without the support of people like you.
As most of you know, I have been striving to improve educational opportunities for children in my community. The cost of education is a significant barrier here. While primary school (grades 1-6) is free, continuing education from grades 7-9 costs 60Q ($8) per student per month—and even more for high school.
Here's the financial breakdown of what I am trying to riase.
- School supplies, backpacks and shoes for 35 primary/elementary students = $2,275 USD
- Tuition, school supplies, backpacks and shoes for 12 middle school students = $2,184 USD
- Tuition, uniforms, school supplies, backpacks and shoes for 6 high school students = $4,524 USD
- GoFundMe admin fees of 5% = $450 USD
- Total fundraising goal = $9,500 USD
With Christmas just around the corner, a season of giving, I'd be extremely grateful for your continued support.
If you have any questions, comments, or concerns, please don't hesitate to email me.
With love,
Anita
Organizer and beneficiary
Zachary Gallinger
Organizer
Lynden, WA
Meryl Frances
Beneficiary