New Full Year Projects...We Are Enthused!!

At the end of 2009 we were sent two proposals created by the women in Chiapas and based on their assessment of some critical needs. After reviewing both of them, we have accepted the challenge of providing the funding. These projects both demonstrate and promote self-determination.

The first, in the community of Zinacantan, has been designed and will be run by four of our scholarship young women (ages 14, 17, 21, and 30). They will conduct a weekly three hour program for 30-35 primary school children that will reinforce academic skills, promote self-esteem, reinforce literacy in their Maya language, develop creativity and even teach garbage re-cycling. The program will last all year and be evaluated after each unit as well as every quarter.

The second project, in the community of Altamirano, will provide the opportunity for 15 women to complete their primary education through a year long certified literacy program. The women will then be able to participate in their communities assemblies and thus feel more valued. In addition, they will gain confidence in their abilities.

We are delighted with both these projects. In our coming annual funds solicitation letter in March, more details will be discussed.

Last year we funded the workshop project designed by the women in Las Margaritas and were personally able to confirm its organization and impact. Now, other communities are assessing their needs with respect to education. We are delighted with this new and expanding direction that Mujeres is taking.

Thank you again for your continuing support. You are indeed making a difference in the lives of these amazing women.

Judith