Colombia 2009

Wednesday:

La Boquilla
This fishing village by the sea is the home of the descendants of the slaves who built this city and then escaped. We met Gloria Sanchez, the dynamic urban leader of the people who is creating the preschool and community center. We assisted by donating cement, concrete blocks, and more to build a room- the computer lab.

Caracol Television that broadcasts to all Spanish speaking South and Central American countries came to make a feature story about our visit that will air in April. We will be provided a copy. The video will show our work with the children that morning and a stroll through the historic walled city that night.

After boat rides through the mangroves, we departed to an International School where we were treated to a refreshing swim at the school and a delicious Colombian barbecue.

Thursday:
Boat ride to the Rosarios National Park - a Caribbean paradise. Swimming, grilled fish lunch, and snorkeling.

Free night for shopping.

Friday:
Foundacion de Jesus: Morning at a facilty for abused and neglected children. Dancing and music are core elements of their intervention with these youth and they are quite successful. Parents - You will be surprised at how many dances our Miami students have learned.

Afternoon - The Foundacion's preschool and m,any activities with the children following their special songs that greeted us. The staff were delighted with the school resources we brought, including a donated computer.

Evening: Packing then the Farewell Dinner at the Hilton. The Hotel has brought flamenco dancers from Spain to perform in the lobby and we hope to see this performance.

Saturday: Off to the airport at 6:00 am for a 9:00 am departure.

WE CAN'T BELIEVE THIS WEEK IS COMING TO AN END ALREADY!

We will have a Final Report on all that we accomplished. It will be very impressive for we know we have helped MANY children this week.

What at wonderful team of hard working volunteers these Miami University students have been. Under intense heat and harsh conditions, they shared their enthusiasm, caring, and love for these very needy children.

It has been my privilege to observe them as leaders in service to the poor. Dr. M