Compared to yesterday, we were able to sleep in (if you count 6:30 as sleeping in). We were woken up to the beautiful smell of Donna Francis’ pancakes for breakfast. Following this was our daily seminar where we were informed about how the US does not provide aid to countries in need (well not as much as they say). As a group, we decided it would be beneficial to provide help to countries in need (good deeds bring good luck).
Today was also a special day for us Glimpsers. It was our first CAP day (CAP standing for Community Action Project), where we were informed about how we will leave our mark in Nicaragua. Los Pipitos (meaning “little kids”) is a nonprofit organization who works with children with special disabilities (whether it be mental or physical). Being in a new environment really opened our eyes to how unscrupulous the government can be. Los Pipitos has branches in other cities throughout Nicaragua, but the one in Matagalpa does not receive as much funds from the government as the others (weird, right?) That’s where we step in. Our delegation will be providing the necessities needed which the government has not provided them with. After listening to Yadira (the owner of Los Pipitos-Matagalpa) explain the things she would like to see get done, we made our decisions on what we as a group would do to make a lasting impact on the organization and make it feel more welcoming. We will redo the Arts And Crafts room by building shelves and painting the walls, and just try to make it like a little art studio. We will also improve the Physical Therapy Room by adding more mattresses, foam rollers, fixing the broken window, and adding more toys the kids can use during rehab. There will also be little projects here and there we will be doing as needed. The group, myself and our leaders included, is really excited to overcome this challenge and help make Matagalpa a better place for everyone; we want everyone to feel welcomed and wanted in the society in which they reside. Global Glimpse Matagalpa 1 7/18 will forever be in Matagalpa’s heart.
-Your Student Leader of the Day,
Kerene Straetker J
Playing with one the cutest kids!
Interacting with the parents
Thug Life.
Jay showing love to our AMAZING cook, Francis! We love you!
I have no doubt that you will all leave your mark and make a lasting impact on the people of Nicaragua. Unfortunately, governments cannot do it all. We are fortunate to have young citizens such as yourselves who are willing to help those in need. You are an awesome group of young people and you exemplify the very best of our country’s future leaders. We commend your efforts in affecting positive change. You are doing an outstanding job and we wish you the best in making this journey an experience of a lifetime!
You have chosen on a project that will enrich everyone’s lives. The power of art and physical activity to educate and heal is often misunderstood. The work you will be doing will have such a positive impact on these kids’ lives (and their families too). You are not only improving the future for these kids, but also improving your own futures. You are learning about compassion, service and politics. You are becoming future global leaders. I look forward to hearing about how your project is progressing. I am so very proud of all of you!
Thanks you all for the work you are doing. This learning will go a long way in shaping your characters for the better. Empathy is what we need more and you all are exemplifying it. I am sure it is coming back to you all in various ways.
Have fun and stay safe.
Venkat
Waiting for the next blog
Kerene did such an awesome job as El Lider del dia. She was a strong leader–but not too demanding–exactly what she needed to be with our delegation, and grew even more comfortable in her role as the day went on. Everyone was engaged at Los Pipitos and didn’t waste a single second getting to know the children and families there. Thus, it made it easier for us to discover what areas of aid were most necessary.
Also, Tajah found her spirit child and Jay made a new best friend. 🙂
-Trudy
Great job to your group!! I am proud of you, Kerene. Stay safe!
Aunt Jean