Andean Community Projects
The Andean Children´s Learning Center
Since 2007, we have been devoting resources to the development of education in a small Andean village. Over two-thirds of the children in the village now attend our ¨Children´s Learning Center,¨ where they are able to take advantage of books, school supplies, and our excellent teacher, Julio.
In order to further expand the opportunities for our children, we opened a computer center, complete with new machines for each child and a dedicated instructor in March of 2011. Approximately 70 students have started learning basic computing techniques, and, like everywhere else on the earth, they are thrilled with new technology!
Meet Julio
There is always a key person behind each successful project; in our case, his name is “Julio, el profe” (Julio, the teacher). A very gentle man, expert with children, Julio is not only a teacher, but also a clown and musician in his free time. He has quickly become an important person in the lives of the children and the community. Julio attends the ACLC five days a week from 2:00 pm to 5:30 pm. To do so, he commutes a total of 4 hours (2 hours each way). His dedication is boundless and it shows in the smiles of the children.
The Children and Art
The children have surprised us with their growing love for art. Previously, many of the children did not have access to art supplies and their parents were not able to prioritize art in their children´s education. As we work to provide resources that will encourage the development of musical and artistic skills, as well as support academic success, the children are flourishing.
Birthdays at the ACLC
Often, families do not have the resources to give their children birthday parties. To help the children enjoy this tradition and feel how uniquely special they are, we have organized two parties each year at the ACLC. Everyone enjoys cake, and Julio and the children put on performances to entertain their own pals and family members along with a few traveling guests.
We exist as a team and a business because you give us the opportunity to serve and host you in our beautiful country. Your support allows us, in turn, to support these important projects and we thank you from the bottoms of our hearts.
