600 children are waiting in the school yards of El Pantanal. They hope we return to them with a fresh batch of hand made school packs--complete with notebooks, pens, pencils, erasers, and pencil sharpeners--this coming August.
A school pack costs about $5 to $6 dollars. Can you spare a few dollars for our cause? http://www.nicaraguaschoolproject.org/contact.html
I realize that the world is on fire right now; there are so many causes to support--the tornadoes of the south, the Japanese earthquake, and the floods plaguing the planet.... If you are still able to help our cause, I truly appreciate it (and so do our Nicaraguans friends.) The communication of this organization is different from other causes since our philosophy is of frienship; the aim is never to annoy or plea with donors for help... If you can help--it's most appreciated. I also realize that not everyone is in the financial situation to donate. Perhaps, having this type of philosophy isn't the most lucrative, but it has always worked for us in the past. Friends of Nicaragua School Project are some of the most wonderful and generous people:)
We seriously appreciate our donors and use 100% of the money for the children and teachers of our two schools in El Pantanal.
Thank you for helping in whatever way you can.
Kathryn, Andres, and Juan Carlos.
Monday, May 30, 2011
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Take Spanish in Nicaragua!
A really wonderful way to travel is to spend some time in a country learning a language. This project was born from my desire to learn Spanish and also experience living in another culture.
My intercultural and language skills evolved each day I spent in Nicaragua; I was learning how to live my life in another country. The mere lesson of living and breathing another culture gave me the needed skills to run this small project (which has been around for 3 years...) Getting to know the people through my (sometimes) poor attempts at speaking their language created the bridge from my culture to theirs--I naturally (without intent) built the needed relationships to create a project that worked within the confines of Nicaragua.
It was never my goal to start a project like SI QUIERES or Nicaragua School Project Society but my goal of learning Spanish and choice to live in a Nicaraguan families' house gave me this opportunity. This type of travel is worth trying--it is bound to take most people out of their comfort zones. Feeling the differences of another culture can be the most amazing learning experience of all. I encourage people to pick a language--pick a country--and jet!
I recommend Granada, Nicaragua and taking your Spanish classes at Casa Xalteva: http://wwww.casaxalteva.org
The staff at Casa Xalteva is phenomenal. Beautiful, laughing, wise people... We often travel and never talk to the people around us--the bartendars, hotel staff, and taxi drivers... Taking Spanish classes will give you the opportunity to connect.
Feel free to email me if you have question about Casa Xalteva.
My intercultural and language skills evolved each day I spent in Nicaragua; I was learning how to live my life in another country. The mere lesson of living and breathing another culture gave me the needed skills to run this small project (which has been around for 3 years...) Getting to know the people through my (sometimes) poor attempts at speaking their language created the bridge from my culture to theirs--I naturally (without intent) built the needed relationships to create a project that worked within the confines of Nicaragua.
It was never my goal to start a project like SI QUIERES or Nicaragua School Project Society but my goal of learning Spanish and choice to live in a Nicaraguan families' house gave me this opportunity. This type of travel is worth trying--it is bound to take most people out of their comfort zones. Feeling the differences of another culture can be the most amazing learning experience of all. I encourage people to pick a language--pick a country--and jet!
I recommend Granada, Nicaragua and taking your Spanish classes at Casa Xalteva: http://wwww.casaxalteva.org
The staff at Casa Xalteva is phenomenal. Beautiful, laughing, wise people... We often travel and never talk to the people around us--the bartendars, hotel staff, and taxi drivers... Taking Spanish classes will give you the opportunity to connect.
Feel free to email me if you have question about Casa Xalteva.
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Education in Nicaragua
I sat on the porch with Olma, my Nicaraguan home stay momma, attempting to seek refuge from the sauna like atmosphere of the tin roofed house. My 14 year old Nica brother, Oscar, also joined us outside. We sat on the street in wooden rocking chairs. The conversation turned interesting.
Olma discussed education in Nicaragua. She told me something that I will never forget. She told me that the parents of children in Nicaragua have only one responsibility—that is to ensure that their children go to school. She believes that the reason why many kids don’t go to school is because their parents don’t enforce it; they quickly give up on their children after a few refusals or the ‘feet stuck in the mud’ syndrome.
Olma grew up extremely impoverished; she was raised by her mother who worked hard her whole life cleaning and cooking in nasty rich peoples’ houses. Although they struggled, Olma claims her mother made sure that her children attended school—whether clean, dirty, or hungry—they made it to school every day. Both her daughters graduated high school.
The conversation turned to Oscar, who isn’t Olma’s biological son but somewhat of an unofficial adopted son. Oscar can be lazy. Sometimes he doesn’t feel like going to school and struggles to get out of bed. Olma directed her comments at him—stressing that he had a choice—go to school and succeed or drop out and end up an uneducated casualty.
I had been teaching English to Oscar the past month and had noticed his desire to ask a lot of questions. Asking questions implies a level of interest and intelligence. I told Oscar that he was smart and has a lot of potential. My words hit his heart; I could see a slight flicker of a smirk. I hope Oscar chooses his path through education.
I think Olma is right. Kids need to go to school. Parents need to force them to go. School is free in Nicaragua (at the public schools.) Projects like ours—Nicaragua School Project— can break down other financial barriers for parents, since we purchase necessary school supplies for 600 children in El Pantanal. Let the mentality of education (seen in Olma) spread like wild fire across Nicaragua and throughout this beautiful world!!
Olma discussed education in Nicaragua. She told me something that I will never forget. She told me that the parents of children in Nicaragua have only one responsibility—that is to ensure that their children go to school. She believes that the reason why many kids don’t go to school is because their parents don’t enforce it; they quickly give up on their children after a few refusals or the ‘feet stuck in the mud’ syndrome.
Olma grew up extremely impoverished; she was raised by her mother who worked hard her whole life cleaning and cooking in nasty rich peoples’ houses. Although they struggled, Olma claims her mother made sure that her children attended school—whether clean, dirty, or hungry—they made it to school every day. Both her daughters graduated high school.
The conversation turned to Oscar, who isn’t Olma’s biological son but somewhat of an unofficial adopted son. Oscar can be lazy. Sometimes he doesn’t feel like going to school and struggles to get out of bed. Olma directed her comments at him—stressing that he had a choice—go to school and succeed or drop out and end up an uneducated casualty.
I had been teaching English to Oscar the past month and had noticed his desire to ask a lot of questions. Asking questions implies a level of interest and intelligence. I told Oscar that he was smart and has a lot of potential. My words hit his heart; I could see a slight flicker of a smirk. I hope Oscar chooses his path through education.
I think Olma is right. Kids need to go to school. Parents need to force them to go. School is free in Nicaragua (at the public schools.) Projects like ours—Nicaragua School Project— can break down other financial barriers for parents, since we purchase necessary school supplies for 600 children in El Pantanal. Let the mentality of education (seen in Olma) spread like wild fire across Nicaragua and throughout this beautiful world!!
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Update: Feb 2011
Hello friends of Nicaragua School Project Society,
Just a quick hello to report of our successful progress here in Nicaragua--we have plentiful school supplies ready to be placed into the arms of curious children. Yesterday, we purchased a load of supplies and spent the afternoon creating packets of individual school supplies. Tomorrow, we will be making our way to our two schools.
If anyone has facebook and would like to join our facebook group--search Si Quieres, Pueden Reir. This is a good way to keep up to date with our progress, see new pictures, and videos. As well as our website is: www.nicaraguaschoolproject.org
I was lucky enough to meet a couple from england who work with people on garbage dumps in Cambodia; and now in Nicaragua--they loved our project and are featuring us in their upcoming documentary (in September.) You can see their work at smallstepsproject.org
Muchas gracias for your lovely support!
regards,
Kathryn Moncur, Juan Carlos, and Andres.
Just a quick hello to report of our successful progress here in Nicaragua--we have plentiful school supplies ready to be placed into the arms of curious children. Yesterday, we purchased a load of supplies and spent the afternoon creating packets of individual school supplies. Tomorrow, we will be making our way to our two schools.
If anyone has facebook and would like to join our facebook group--search Si Quieres, Pueden Reir. This is a good way to keep up to date with our progress, see new pictures, and videos. As well as our website is: www.nicaraguaschoolproject.org
I was lucky enough to meet a couple from england who work with people on garbage dumps in Cambodia; and now in Nicaragua--they loved our project and are featuring us in their upcoming documentary (in September.) You can see their work at smallstepsproject.org
Muchas gracias for your lovely support!
regards,
Kathryn Moncur, Juan Carlos, and Andres.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Learning from India:)
Hi there,
I just returned from a graduate seminar in two locations in India. The whole experience was enriching and challenging. I am also happy to report that I visited an amazing organization called 'El Shaddai' that works to house, clothe, and educate children from the street and desperate slums. Their work was truly inspiring. They started out small (just like our little project), and they now manage to support about 100,000 kids in India. Although it does seem like a tiny number in the scheme of India... their work is truly inspiring. I appreciated the friendliness of the staff, and we talked to many volunteers who firmly believed in the work of El Shaddai. You can have a look at their website: http://www.childrescue.net/about-el-shaddai-childrescue
El Shaddai is a Christian organization, but their philosophy is very liberal. They choose not to force religion on the children; they feel that religion should be chosen by the children later in life. I appreciate this philosophy greatly. If anyone you know is looking to volunteer in an english speaking country--India would be quite the experience! El Shaddai comes very recommended.
As one of the founders of Nicaragua School Project Society, I am happy to have had the experience of seeing how other projects in world are operating. I have YOU to -thank- for your dedicated donations and thoughts!:) I loved my time in India, but it also made me realize that Nicaragua is my home away from home, and that my commitment to the people and culture is even more important.
Kathryn:)
Thursday, July 15, 2010
ATTN: VICTORIA residents
An exciting fundraiser for only $20.00
South American Tea Tasting fundraiser for the Nicaragua School Project Saturday July 24 4 pm – 4:45 pm$20 per person.
A variety of teas are popular throughout South America – from Yerba Maté, to thirst-quenching teas featuring herbs such as hibiscus and chamomile, along with black teas as well. In Nicaragua, a delicious drink known as Cacao is made by combining cocoa beans with sugar, rice, cinnamon and ice. Spend an enjoyable time exploring a variety of South American tea traditions as you taste a selection of delicious iced and hot teas, including a tea-inspired version of Nicaraguan Cacao! Be inspired by refreshing iced tea recipe ideas that are nutrient rich, and that you can learn how to make and enjoy at home throughout the summer. Nicaragua School Project was started in 2008 by Kathryn, a Canadian from Victoria, BC, and by Juan Carlos Roblero and José Andres Martinez (local Nicaraguans)—to effect change and foster hope for in-need communities. The benefits of the project are far reaching: while students gain access to essential supplies, the heavy burden of affording them is lifted for numerous families. Yearly, approximately 500 children receive school supplies and benefit from this Project. All of the supplies are purchased in Granada, Nicaragua with donated funds - www.nicaraguaschoolproject.org
Seating is limited – you must pre-register and pre-pay to attend. To register, call 250-704-2688 ext. 2, or email silkroad@silkoadtea.com. This event takes place at SILK ROAD 1624 Government St. in Victoria’s Historic Chinatown District.See More
South American Tea Tasting fundraiser for the Nicaragua School Project Saturday July 24 4 pm – 4:45 pm$20 per person.
A variety of teas are popular throughout South America – from Yerba Maté, to thirst-quenching teas featuring herbs such as hibiscus and chamomile, along with black teas as well. In Nicaragua, a delicious drink known as Cacao is made by combining cocoa beans with sugar, rice, cinnamon and ice. Spend an enjoyable time exploring a variety of South American tea traditions as you taste a selection of delicious iced and hot teas, including a tea-inspired version of Nicaraguan Cacao! Be inspired by refreshing iced tea recipe ideas that are nutrient rich, and that you can learn how to make and enjoy at home throughout the summer. Nicaragua School Project was started in 2008 by Kathryn, a Canadian from Victoria, BC, and by Juan Carlos Roblero and José Andres Martinez (local Nicaraguans)—to effect change and foster hope for in-need communities. The benefits of the project are far reaching: while students gain access to essential supplies, the heavy burden of affording them is lifted for numerous families. Yearly, approximately 500 children receive school supplies and benefit from this Project. All of the supplies are purchased in Granada, Nicaragua with donated funds - www.nicaraguaschoolproject.org
Seating is limited – you must pre-register and pre-pay to attend. To register, call 250-704-2688 ext. 2, or email silkroad@silkoadtea.com. This event takes place at SILK ROAD 1624 Government St. in Victoria’s Historic Chinatown District.See More
Thursday, June 24, 2010
TAX RECEIPTS!!!!!!!!!
I have exciting news. Nicaragua school project has become a partner project of 'Nicaragua Children's foundation' run by a lovely family from Vancouver. Because of their kindness, we are currently able to give tax receipts for donations over 50.00.
If you would like to donate and receive a tax receipt. You can either use their pay pal... credit card option via their website: http://www.nicaraguachildrensfoundation.com/donate. You may also write a cheque to: Nicaragua Children's Foundation to: Mona and Allan Donovan
3855 Bayridge Avenue
West Vancouver. B.C.
V7V 3J3
Please indicate to them that you would like to money to go to the Nicaragua School Project Society on both options.
Please make sure to include your name, address, and amount in order to make the receipt writing easy (write a separate note when using pay pal.)
Mona & Allan have been working in San Juan Del Sur, Nicaragua since 2006, improving schools and equiping children with school supplies and uniforms. Their foundation operates on the same values as ours; thus, we are able to work together in harmony.
Kathryn
http://www.nicaraguaschoolproject.org/
If you would like to donate and receive a tax receipt. You can either use their pay pal... credit card option via their website: http://www.nicaraguachildrensfoundation.com/donate. You may also write a cheque to: Nicaragua Children's Foundation to: Mona and Allan Donovan
3855 Bayridge Avenue
West Vancouver. B.C.
V7V 3J3
Please indicate to them that you would like to money to go to the Nicaragua School Project Society on both options.
Please make sure to include your name, address, and amount in order to make the receipt writing easy (write a separate note when using pay pal.)
Mona & Allan have been working in San Juan Del Sur, Nicaragua since 2006, improving schools and equiping children with school supplies and uniforms. Their foundation operates on the same values as ours; thus, we are able to work together in harmony.
Kathryn
http://www.nicaraguaschoolproject.org/
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