In addition to our work with animals, we are continuing to sponsor projects and create opportunities for the students in Jicaro. In February, the students who graduated from secondary school were invited to join NicaLove’s sponsored computer and English classes.
Since 2014, I have been supporting the school and children in one way or another – from donating school supplies, holiday and end-of-the-year celebrations, sporting gear donations to our food aid project that occurred during the first few months of the pandemic.
Last year, we collaborated on a pilot program, offering computer and English classes to the youth and young adults in the community. With computers donated by a local Rotarian and the help of a Nicaraguan teacher, our educational program was born. We provided the teacher a weekly salary and a commitment from the students who wished to attend. Two months into the program, however, COVID halted our efforts and we began focusing on necessities, such as food, sanitation, and medical aid.
I am happy to say that we are back on track with our classes and NicaLove has committed to providing a 10-months of salary to the same bilingual, local teacher, Alejandro. Every Wednesday, Alejandro teaches a two-hour class at the Jicaro school that is available to any youth and young adult who is interested. So far, there has been a great turnout, and both Alejandro and I are very happy with the student’s commitment and progress.
From my very first visit to this community, my attachment to the well-being and future of these great kids has grown. I have had the pleasure of watching them grow over the last few years. I see many parallels with my children – desire to learn, curiosities, passions, however, the gap between their education is undeniable. The lack of education in this vulnerable community leads to fewer opportunities for success, and more often than not causing an insurmountable gap between what they love and want to do in life, and what the reality of their situations are.
It is evident that these kids have far less than my own children in all aspects of life, but their eagerness and commitment keep me going back to offer them the hand-up that could change their futures. They want the same in life as our kids, but the odds are stacked against them. My hope is that this opportunity opens doors for these kids, to change the cycle of poverty for them and their families for generations to come.
Would you like to be part of changing their future? For just a $170 donation you can provide a full month salary (or $42.50 for a week) for our teacher. Your donations would be greatly appreciated by NicaLove, Alejandro, and the passionate children of Jicaro. With your donation towards this project, you will receive a personal thank you video from our teacher and students, in English!