Expanding Education Opportunities in Rural Nicaragua, One School at a Time

The Lupisella family during a school construction in Nicaragua

Education is among the most important tools for development and motivation around the world, and the Lupisella family knows that very well. As Principals of two schools in the Greater Rochester Area, Robert (Avon) and Jeanine (Honeoye Falls-Lima) Lupisella truly understand the value of schooling, and hope to share its importance with communities in the developing world.

When Jeanine initially met Enlace Project board member Kris Dreessen in 2011, the idea of working on a project in Nicaragua began to take shape. Upon receiving Enlace Project’s newsletter, Jeanine saw they were looking for volunteers and contacted the organization’s director, Kellan Morgan.

Some of the Avon for Nicaragua volunteers.

After some planning and fundraising, Jeanine, Robert, their two daughters, Elise (10) and Caroline (8), and their son Brian (21), traveled to El Sauce to help with the construction of a school in one of the rural communities.This trip was especially memorable because the family was able to see a promotion ceremony and witness the community's response to the new school. Jeanine traveled back to El Sauce to attend the school’s opening in February 2012.  On a second family trip in 2013, their son Jordan (23) and his girlfriend, Elizabeth Vogt, joined as well.

Now, the Lupisellas are preparing for another trip, and their third school construction—this time working on two schools in the communities of Buena Vista and Casa de Zinc. But this trip also incorporates a new group: students and community members from the Lupisellas' area, together called Avon for Nicaragua. The roster includes Avon high school seniors, their high school librarian two fifth graders, members of the Avon Rotary and a few of the family members, and two teachers and a retired school counselor from Honeoye Falls-Lima. Altogether there are 19 volunteers.

Enjoying the pasta at an Avon for Nicaragua fundraiser!

Fundraising is no easy task, and the volunteers have been hard at work preparing for the trip, which is scheduled for February 2014. A pasta dinner in September raised $1,600 for the cause, and a sale of Fuente de Pino baskets this past August and barbecue in June also helped to raise awareness and funds for the trip. More recently, a Potluck Dinner & Benefit for Nicaragua brought together members from the surrounding communities of Livonia, Honeoye Falls, and Lima and raised $1,400.

The community of Buena Vista lies six kilometers from the center of El Sauce in the community of Ocotal. Casa de Zinc lies even farther, 12 kilometers from the center, and has very limited road access. The main economic activity is agriculture, with the principle crops being corn, beans, and wheat. There is no electricity or potable water, but there are clean-water wells.

The existing school at Buena Vista.

The current two-room school acts as a preschool and elementary school, with 29 children attending. As the teacher, Alvaro David Pichardo, solicited various nonprofit and government organizations for renovations, Enlace Project learned of the opportunity and secured the site for the Lupisella’s next project. Casa de Zinc does not have a formal school house, but instead teaches 50 pre-school and elementary school students in a community member's house.

 Both communities are very enthusiastic and look forward to meeting and working with Avon for Nicaragua.

To the Lupisellas, their work is about much more than building a school. Jeanine comments that learning from the people and experiencing the culture of Nicaragua changed her perspective on what matters most. Robert adds, “We have been able to meet some remarkable people. They have enriched our lives in so many ways.” But in the end, interacting with the community is truly the greatest benefit, and the most memorable part of the experience.

--Written by Sean Conner

Members of the Buena Vista community meet to discuss the construction.

The Casa de Zinc house where classes are taught.

Giving Thanks from Nicaragua!

This Thanksgiving Enlace Project would like to extend a sincere and heartfelt “gracias” to all of our supporters, volunteers, friends, and family. Without your support, hard work, dedication, and vision for a better future, we would not be able to work towards our goal of inspiring and supporting communities, families, and individuals in their work towards economic development.

This year we have been able to accomplish many great things. Just to mention a few:

1.      Construction of La Flor elementary school in Ocotal

2.      Enlace Project Benefit Concert on SUNY Geneseo campus

3.      Exportation of 12,000 of Ocotal coffee to Rochester

4.      Over $13,000 in microloans

5.      Over 30 small businesses started or expanded with the Micro-loan Program

6.      9 Nicaraguan participants for our second annual English Class trip to New York

7.      52 participants in our Academic and Volunteer Travel Program

8.      Installation of 25 solar panels for the members of the Tourism Cooperative “Los Altos de Ocotal”

Although Thanksgiving is not a celebrated holiday in Nicaragua, the action of giving thanks is still very important across the country. Any of our supporters who have traveled to El Sauce have seen first hand how grateful the community is for your involvement. 

Thank you again for your support!

Sincerely,

The Enlace Project Staff

Enlace Project Looks Toward the Future!

Enlace Project Staff 2013! Click here for bios. 

In the months of October and November, Enlace Project’s Nicaragua staff participated in two team workshops in order to strengthen team bonds and prepare future plans for improving and expanding projects. Led by co-directors Kellan Morgan and Yacarely Mairena, and Peace Corps volunteer Conrad Wright, the workshops focused on reaffirming the organization’s vision, mission, progress, and future. Since Enlace Project’s inception in 2009, it has created and advanced several initiatives with the hope to act as a meaningful resource in the El Sauce community.

Concentrating hard during the meeting!

However, Enlace Project’s vision doesn’t end there. Beyond El Sauce, Enlace Project imagines the inspiration of new communities and individuals through opportunities that allow them to work towards their own human and economic development. The co-directors discussed bigger plans for the future, encouraging the entire staff to think about how their programs could grow, and how they can bring new ideas to the table. Conrad’s workshop on creativity sought to inspire the staff to ‘think outside of the box.’

Conrad talks about creativity, after an interesting
activity (the cup in the foreground).

Later in the weekend, the talk turned to planning the more tangible future. Each program within Enlace Project was encouraged to develop their own vision for the program, and a set of goals and objectives to reach the eventual ‘vision’ set for themselves. Now in the later planning stages, Enlace Project is getting ready to kick off 2014 with a solid and well-developed idea for how the organization hopes to grow—along with realistic steps to reach that point.

As the end of the year approaches, Enlace Project hopes to share some of the newest changes and growths with supporters—there is a lot to look forward to, and a lot that we can do to continue providing resources to communities that can help themselves!

--Written by Sean Conner

How a Small and Innovative Cafe is Making a Big Difference

Café Aroma, with a performance by Priscilla Ozodo.

 Enlace Project has found its newest “link” between the United States and El Sauce through the Rush United Methodist Church outside of Rochester, New York. Devin Lyles, the church’s Pastor of Youth and Outreach, became interested in Enlace Project’s programs and opportunities when approached by Sean Conner, Enlace’s Nicaragua intern and member of the Rush, NY congregation. Although Enlace Project is not affiliated with any religious institution or group, the two organizations share the common mission of helping to meet the needs of those in underprivileged communities.

Thus, discussion began between RUMC and Enlace Project on how to best use the church’s congregation and enthusiasm to help drive Enlace’s projects. The result takes is the use of Ocotal Coffee, which is purchased from Java Joe’s and sold at the church’s grassroots café space—a locale that is unique in the area, serving as a meeting space for creative minds, artists, musicians, and other fair-trade sales merchants. The coffee is served on a donation basis, with all profits directly benefiting Enlace’s microloan program.

Emiliano, a coffee farmer in Ocotal, nurses the young coffee plants.

Café Aroma, as RUMC’s community space is named, came about in attempts to bring the many talents and skills of Rush into one place where they could be emphasized, accompanied by coffee and intimate conversation. Beginning in September 2013, the café began to function bringing in acoustic musical acts on the first Saturday of the month and serving as a meeting place before and after the Sunday church services. The walls display the art of local artists—including some of Kris Dreessen's photographs of El Sauce—and the church is also working on putting together some workshops in the future.

“Our hope has always been to create a space that fosters community,” Devin explains. “We like to think Glocally.” By this Devin refers to both a global and a local focus.

Flyer for a past "Acoustic Saturdays" event.

The church has a strong reputation for service work, including raising funds for a water project in Africa, working with a hospice and orphanage in South Africa, organizing yearly mission trips, and working in soup kitchens in Rochester. Keeping the service focus with the café, Devin and the rest of the congregation are glad to support the direct-trade coffee that Java Joe buys from Ocotal. When it was first served, Devin recalls, “everyone commented on the level of the quality of the coffee.” The donations going towards Enlace Project’s microloan program also shows the church’s attention to international service. When art is hung in the church for sale, the church requires that 10% of the profits go to a mission of some sort.

In the month of December, Café Aroma is planning a Christmas Extravaganza for the Acoustic Saturday performance. He assures, “there will be eggnog and ugly sweaters aplenty.” For more information and general hours of operation, you can visit http://www.thecafearoma.com/. 

--Written by Sean Conner, Enlace Project Intern

Microloans Continue to Inspire El Sauce Entrepreneurs

Enrique Corrales preparing to teach the financial course.

During Enlace Project's expansion in the past couple years, the microloan program became one of the organization's most important and unique tools in empowering the community of El Sauce. By providing locals with small sums of money with exceptionally low interest rates, the program has seen both high level of interest and success. The paid back loans are then used for the next round of microloans.

The latest round of loans consists of six first-time applicants who have signed up with their own business ideas. The loans will be distributed by mid-November, after the recipients participate in a 3-week course and create a business plan for how they will use the money. The course, which began Monday October 21, focuses on financial education, accounting, and creating and revising the business plan.

Enrique Corrales, the director of the program, tries to keep ideas for the course fresh and innovative. This round, he is hoping to promote the opening of savings accounts for businesses so that they can better manage their funds. Conrad Wright, Peace Corps. business development volunteer for El Sauce, has also joined Enrique to consult any and all entrepreneurs who come to him with questions or seeking advice.

The participants, as well, have innovative ideas for their businesses, including a pastry shop, a silver and jewelry shop, and a natural medicine business.

--Written by Sean Conner

MICROLOAN FAQS AND STATISTICS

What is a microloan?

Microloans are small amounts of money presented in the form of a loan to small entrepreneurs and business men and women. The loans have low interests rates that are paid back over a set period of time.

Who can receive a microloan?

The newest group of microloan participants in the financial course.

Business owners or those with an idea for a business in El Sauce can apply for these loans with a specific use in mind, often to improve the resources available to their business. Some applicants have previously received a loan, and are eligible for a second if they paid the first one back on time.

How much can one person receive?

First loan: up to $200
Second loan: up to $300
Third loan: up to $500

How many loans has Enlace Project distributed?
Since 2012, Enlace Project has distributed 63 loans to a range of businesses including restaurants, clothing stores, transportation services, bookstores, and more.

How are microloan recipients chosen?
The microloan program has spread by word of mouth to many business owners. They visit Enlace Project’s office to inquire about the program. Since Enlace does not have the funds available to run the program year-round, we call those interested when there are funds for a round of loans.

Rigoberto Ruiz, a former recipient of a loan. Read about other participants here.

What are the requirements to receive a loan?
In order to participate, applicants must be able to read and write, and be of 18 years of age or older. Prior to receiving the loan, all participants must attend a series of classes on good financial practices.

What is the focus of the financial class?
Enlace Project is proud to offer classes to the participating small businesses owners to help the loans to be used the best they can be. These classes include how to create a business plan, keep track of finances, and book-keeping skills.

How does Enlace Project follow up with recipients?
After loans are distributed, Enlace Project regularly makes visits to the recipient’s businesses to see how their businesses are and assist them with their bookkeeping. Those participants who wish to apply for a second or third loan are able to do so as long as they have necessity, interest in business growth, and a plan for using the loan.

Number of microloan beneficiaries: 43
Number of clients having received a second or third loan: 18
Amount of money given total: $14,889
Number of rounds of loans: 8
Percent that pay back: 95%
Money donated to microloan program: $4,963+
Percent female recipients: 66%

Student Testimonials: Jessica Kroenert

Jessica Kroenert, a junior at the State University of New York at Geneseo, is studying International Relations and French. She traveled to El Sauce in the summer of 2013 for two months, during which she participated in both the Humanities II and Service Learning Programs. She is passionate about service and is hoping to make a career in development work, so her experience was especially important to her personal and professional growth. In reflecting on her experience, she writes:

Jessica, Cam, and Enrique preparing to give an interview.

It’s hard to say what first made me apply to study abroad in El Sauce. As an International Relations major, it is a requirement for me to study abroad, and since I’m on the Developing World track within my major, I guess I was drawn to Nicaragua as a “developing country.” I’m interested in working in development as a career, and something about Nicaragua appealed to me, not to mention I definitely needed some experience in the Spanish language. However, the expectations I held for my trip were completely flipped around when I arrived.

Going into a service learning experience, you expect it to be primarily about helping people out, and learning a little along the way; basically, you would be doing the giving and the community the receiving. However, the reality, for me at least, was the opposite. I can say without a doubt that I learned more from the people I worked with than I ever could have imagined, and while I certainly valued my service project, and feel it was worthwhile. The experience and knowledge I received from my experience while working in the Microloan program is beyond anything I could have ever imagined.

Jessica taking a picture of a microloan recipient and her family.

I was very enthusiastic to start working with Enrique, the Microloan Program coordinator, and Cam, another student from Geneseo, on writing biographies and taking photographs of the program’s current participants. I had a strong interest in Microloans and wanted to get a feel for how they work. I was able to learn so much from talking to the program’s participants, not just about Microloans, but about their lives, their culture, their aspirations, and disappointments.

I’ll never forget how, just on our first day interviewing, two of the three people we talked with began to cry when telling their stories. The way the majority of people were so willing to open up to us gringos and share their life’s hardships and victories, was inspirational. There was rarely, if ever, a day where I wasn't touched by someone’s story, and wanted to do everything I could to help that person succeed.

I had an incredible experience working in this program; I hope our project was valuable and that the hours Cam and I spent writing people’s stories and editing their photos eventually circles back and benefits the people we met. But I know for me, this was definitely a Service Learning experience with a tremendous emphasis on the learning aspect. What I took away from our 30+ conversations with Microloan participants far exceeds anything I could hope to give them in return.

Read Jessica and Cam's Microloan biographies here.

Milton's Trip to New York

Milton and Luzvelia perform a traditional Nicaraguan
dance in Geneseo.

My name is Milton Antonio Mejía López. I am a forest engineer and I’m 25 years old. I was born in El Sauce, in the department of León, Nicaragua. I am currently working on my uncle’s farm, assisting with technical and administrative jobs. I have been studying Enlgish for almost 2 years with Enlace Project and I’m in the second level, although almost finished with the level.

My primary reason for traveling to New York was to practice the knowledge that I acquired in English class. I also wanted to learn more about the culture of the United States and to share my own culture, as an exchange. I was very excited to visit one of the most prestigious public universities in New York and reconnect with my friends who are studying there. I had met them when they came to El Sauce through the Enlace Project study abroad programs. It was also exciting to see different sights around New York State.

I spent 12 days in New York. In New York City, I had the privilege of visiting Central Park, the Brooklyn Bridge, Yankee Stadium, Wall Street, and Main Street, as well as some others. I also visited the area where the twin towers were, and where there are now two large fountains. I also saw a tree in that area that had survived the attacks.

From left clockwise: Milton, Juan, Camilo, and Javier enjoying Yankee Stadium.

Next we moved to Waterville, the hometown of Enlace Project Director Kellan Morgan. There I met his family, for whom I’ll always be grateful. Here we played many sports like soccer, bowling, and kayaking. We also visited Saratoga, where I saw horse races. My friends and I bet 12 dollars on a horse, but we unfortunately lost. Lastly, we went to a waterpark, which is a beautiful place to enjoy a happy weekend with your family. Here, you shouldn’t be afraid of heights, and the games are really fun.

Finally, we visited Geneseo University, where Mr. Wes Kennison explained to us a bit of the culture and history of Geneseo. We also saw different places around the university and town. I was very excited to see my friends who live there.

Milton in Morgans True Value Hardware Store in Waterville, NY.

We then visited one of the 7 wonders of the world—Niagara Falls. This place is fantastic, and we were able to board a boat to see the falls more closely.

I also went to the home of the Lupisella family. It was very nice to have a DJ at the party. The Lupisellas have built two schools around El Sauce, in the community of Ocotal. That is admirable because, thanks to them, many children can go to school without having to travel long distances. We visited Rochester and Buffalo, and had a meeting with people who have helped working with the 4 Walls Project.

For me, I enjoyed myself everywhere, but especially New York City. This was because I was in one of the cities most visited by tourists, and I was one of them. I was in "the empire.” The hardest part, however, was not being able to understand what everyone was saying. I had to adjust to the weather and living conditions too. But these experiences helped me to improve in my English and I learned how to adjust.

Visiting the Big Tree Inn in Geneseo, NY.

The trip was an unforgettable experience, and I learned that in all the world there are very good people. Traveling can help to improve your personal life, too. I learned that you have to lose fear, like I did when I was nervous about speaking and when I was afraid of heights.

I would like to thank everyone for making this experience possible: Wes Kennison, Jessica Kroenert (who helped my apply for my visa), the Towsley family, the Morgan family, the Lupisella’s, Kris Dreessen, Enlace Project, and everyone else who had helped in any way.

--Written by Milton Antonio Mejía López

SUNY Geneseo Students Find a Second Home for Enlace Project on Campus

The student body of the State University of New York at Geneseo, Enlace Project’s biggest partner in Study Abroad programs, is about to get a whole new look into El Sauce. A student-led initiative is in the process of forming the Enlace Project Geneseo club, which hopes to serve as “an organized connection to Enlace Project for anyone in Geneseo who has an interest in the programs (that they offer).” Additionally, the group will run fundraisers and keep students who have participated in past programs  in contact with each other and with El Sauce.

Students from SUNY Geneseo working with Enlace Project members
to begin planning some club activities. 

Christopher Pike (known as Topher) is a Senior Business Administration and International Relations double major at Geneseo. Supported by the Frank Vafier Student Ambassadorship Grant, Topher decided to work with Enlace through a project he entitled “Sustainable Non-Profit Management in El Sauce, Nicaragua.” The goals of this project include learning about the operations of Enlace Project and creating “a stronger fundraising and information network between El Sauce and Geneseo.”

Topher originally became involved with Enlace Project through Geneseo’s Humanities II program over the summer of 2012. He explains that he was very impressed with the work that Enlace Project was doing, and believed that the Student Ambassadorship would be a great opportunity for him to apply his skills to Enlace Project’s mission.

During Geneseo’s Humanities II program in the summer of 2013, Topher once again traveled to El Sauce, this time with the mission of learning about Enlace Project’s work and collecting photographs and videos to use in his project. He accompanied Kellan to school openings, worked with Enrique Corrales to learn about the microloan program, and sat in on the weekly staff meetings. Now that he has returned to Geneseo, he hopes to start the Enlace project Geneseo club.

Topher Pike during his first visit to Nicaragua.

The club, which is currently seeking recognition by the college, has about twenty students involved, and hopes to expand membership to include Geneseo community members. Most of the current members have previously traveled to El Sauce, and are hoping to remain in touch with the community. On October 18^th, from 5-8pm on the College Union Patio in Geneseo, the group will be hosting a benefit concert and selling baskets from the Fuente de Pino women’s cooperative.

Topher is also working on compiling an informational video for Enlace project and create advertising materials for future trips.

--Written by Sean Conner, Enlace Project Intern

“Enlace Project not only made my time in Nicaragua extremely enjoyable, they helped me discover a passion for international development.”

-Topher Pike

Meet Conrad Wright: Bringing a Unique Blend of Business and Agriculture to El Sauce

Conrad Wright is one of Enlace Project's newest staff members, joining the team from Colorado, through Enlace Project's connection with Peace Corps. Prior to his enrollment in the Peace Corps, Conrad had traveled to South-Eastern Asia and Africa to volunteer and work on various projects, including starting a non-governmental organization that operates in Uganda and Tanzania. He has a bachelor's degree in International Business Administration from Fort Lewis College. Conrad's service in El Sauce began in May 2013.

What do you do here in El Sauce as a Peace Corps Volunteer?

Well, I am a small business development volunteer and  I have two primary jobs. One of my jobs is working in local schools helping teachers with a small business class. The business course is part of a new nationwide initiative aimed at spurring long-term economic growth by giving students the tools to start their own business. My second job is with Enlace Project. I am working here sort of as an auxiliary support person filling in wherever I’m needed but I do have the freedom to start my own projects too.

Early biochar experiments.

What is some of the independent work that you are doing as a part of your service?

I am working on a cross-sectoral project with the Manuel López coffee cooperative. I met the group of farmers through Enlace Project and had the opportunity to tour some of their farms. They had mentioned to me that their crop yield is lower than average output. I offered to share with them what I know about organic land management, because of my interest in permaculture and my experience working on organic farms back home. So, for example I am planning demonstrations on biochar, bio-insecticide production, large-scale compost management and field application, compost tea production and pruning techniques.

Can you explain in more detail about the process of producing biochar and bio-insecticide?

The procedure of producing biochar is pretty simple. It is an anaerobic chemical reaction known as pyrolysis. Essentially what this means is that in order to create biochar you have to use an oxygen-free zone so the bio-material you are using carbonizes. The great thing is that you can use corn stalks, used corn cobs and waste wood, and other similar materials that are abundant on farms. 

The reason why biochar is so effective as a soil amendment is that it increases surface area in the soil for microbes, bacteria and fungi to live. So, by adding biochar to the soil you dramatically increase soil life which is largely reasonable for converting organic matter in the soil into nutrients for the plants. There are a variety of other benefits like GHG sequestration and increased water retention, to name a few.

In the process of pyrolysis you get other useful byproducts such as synthetic gas and what has been termed “bio-petroleum.”  So, I built a device known as a “modified biocrude gasifier” to both produce biochar and to capture these other useful products. The biocrude can be processed into both a fuel that can be used in small engines like a generator and also insecticides that can be applied to the plants.

Conrad's "modified biocrude gasifier" during its first complete test in mid-September.

How does this help the farmers?

Well, the farmers will be able to use the biochar in field application to improve crop yield. Then they can use a dilute of the biocrude to fend off the pests that may be feeding on the coffee trees. Or they can process the biocrude into a bio-fuel to run their generator up there to produce valuable energy. 

How much did it cost to make this biocrude gasifier?

I spent about $120 USD to pay for material, labor and transport for the gasifier, but you could do it for much cheaper. You could build one for next to nothing if you could source your materials from leftover construction projects or the garbage dump. But for this project, I bought almost all of the material new.

Can you explain how this project fits into the idea of sustainability?

Resulting biochar material from one of the initial tests.

In terms of the farmers, the aspect of sustainability relates in a multifunctional way to their whole system of production and, by extension, their way of life. First of all they are closing the system loop by converting a waste resource into valuable products. It also allows them to source their inputs for crop production locally. In a financial sense, the project could potentially save them money in the long run or generate money (from cost-reduction) depending on how you look at it from not having to buy organic insecticide and organic fertilizers. Additionally, it would save lost income from a pest infestation or if they are really ambitious they could use the project as an income generating activity. For a more global sense the project fits sustainability criteria by GHG sequestration and a reduced demand on petroleum products.

What’s the next step?

I have to put together a series of participative lectures and demonstrations to facilitate the “knowledge transfer” of this whole process and show them how all this stuff works and what to do with it. So, I am hoping that sometime in December I can have them down here at the office for a day to show them what I have been up to.      

Keep on the look-out for updates on Conrad's work!

El Sauce’s Charm is Less in Quiet Reflection, More in the Connections

In the month of September, Enlace Project had the pleasure of welcoming back an old friend. Colleen Dunham, who has come down to El Sauce for three extended visits since 2011—the first for a month, the second for six weeks, and this time for three weeks—has become enchanted with the welcoming people and culture of rural Nicaragua.

Colleen hard at work building a house during her latest visit.

Colleen explains that she came upon El Sauce by luck, when she was looking to travel during a “significant milestone” of her life. She came in contact with members of Rochester’s 4 Walls Project, and later the staff of Enlace Project. It wasn't long after her first meeting with Bonnie Yannie of 4WP that she was convinced and bought a ticket to travel. While she was expecting a calm, reflecting experience, what she found was somewhat different; she admits that when Enlace Project staff member Juan Mairena picked her up and told her she was to start working on a house the next day, she was taken by surprise.

Nonetheless, the experience was definitely worthwhile. By sitting in on Enlace Project’s English classes, she quickly made friends with Peace Corps volunteer Rachel Ropkey and several Nicaraguan students from the class. Student Jahaira Lira, who is now in level 2 in the advanced class, would invite her over to meet her parents and do her hair. Pepe Hernandez, who leads 4 Walls Project efforts, also became a good friend, despite the initial language barrier. “I thought I would feel excluded, but I never did,” she admits.

Andrew taking a break from work for a photo-op with one of the local kids!

Since the initial trip, Colleen has learned a great deal about Nicaragua, and is taking Spanish classes in Buffalo. This trip she came down to visit families that she has become close to and work on a house for 4 Walls Project. Joining her is Andrew Schantz, who had never traveled to Nicaragua before. While he notes that there have been some challenging moments, he also explains that it has provided him with many new insights.

Colleen says the thing that struck her most was the disparity of wealth between Nicaragua and the United States. She explains that many of the material things and opportunities that we have in the U.S. simply aren’t available here. However, in return, Sauceños also possess some qualities that are harder to come by in the U.S. Namely: “resourcefulness, patience, and generosity.” Colleen, and possibly Andy as well, will return to El Sauce for sure in the future. In the meantime, their experiences of the most recent trip are sure to stay with them.

Colleen and long-time friend Pepe Hernandez. 

“If there is one thing I want to say about El Sauce, it’s this: Just come. It’s easy, inexpensive, and life-changing.”

-Colleen Dunham.

--Written by Sean Conner

Student Testimonials: Richelle Pennington

Richelle Pennington is a Junior Pre-Physicians Assistant, Biology major from the State University of New York at Geneseo. In her free time, she is the volunteer coordinator for Geneso's Outing Club, the Charity Chair of Phi Lambda Chi, the secretary for Biology Club and an EMT for the Geneseo Fire Department. Richelle traveled to El Sauce with the Summer Service Learning program in 2013. Her experience, she explains, is one that will say with her for her entire life:

Richelle Pennington, pictured center right (yellow shirt), at the hospital in El Sauce.

In regards to traveling abroad, I have been fortunate enough to travel a lot in my lifetime. When I was younger I lived in Geneva, Switzerland, which gave me the chance to understand another culture besides my own outside of the United States of America. Since then, most of my trips outside the country have been for leisure, to see new place or visit family and/or friends. I have learned a lot in my travels but in the end I’ve realized nothing compares to being fully immersed in a totally new culture.

When I initially applied to journey to El Sauce, Nicaragua I planned on working at a rural health post so that I could give back to the community since I really enjoy patient care. I know Nicaragua has its issues in the health care world so I saw this opportunity to be right up my alley. I was aware I was going on a “service-learning” trip but I continued to tell myself this was more of a volunteer trip and focus on that. I never thought about the fact that I would be taken on a journey. I met new friends, slid down a volcano, listened to music, traveled to cities and mountains, spent quality time with my host family and learned a new culture as well as a language. I was given the chance to help out, which I did. I was able to assist with vitals, help calm down patients and even preform a few pap smears. I was able to give a little but in reality I ended up learning so much more in the end.

Climbing up Cerro Negro near León.

I now see how to immerse myself in a culture, which is to live how everyone else does. I also see how back at home I take many things for granted such as water, food, transportation and my family. After my experience I now feel much more fortunate for all I have been given and will use this to help me realize what issues are and are not realistically important. I will use the experience and knowledge to tell others how important service is, but in the end an adventure like this will ultimately change your thinking and how you live for the better. I may have stayed only one month in El Sauce, Nicaragua but my involvement there has made a lifetime impact on me. 

Student Testimonials: Jo Speicher

Jo Speicher, from the State University of New York's Upstate Medical University in Syracuse, participated in the university's two-week summer program in El Sauce. Jo, who is studying to be a Nurse Practitioner, had previously traveled to Nicaragua and worked on the Atlantic Coast in the city of Puerto Cabezas. Thus, El Sauce provided an opportunity for her to experience a different aspect of Nicaraguan life working in rural medical posts. She writes:

Jo with her Sauceño host mother.

It was an honor and enjoyable privilege to be a part of a team of six students from SUNY Upstate Medical University this past July to visit the quiet community of El Sauce, Nicaragua. The noble organization, Enlace, coordinated our stay by arranging every detail with meticulous care. The people of El Sauce are warm and welcoming and my host mama has become a dear friend.

We were introduced to the health care system in Nicaragua by actively participating in clinics at health posts in surrounding rural areas. The local doctors who accompanied us challenged us to think critically and discussed symptoms, diagnoses, and treatments as well as allowing us to do hands on assessments of the patients. We performed respiratory assessments, blood pressure checks and did numerous pap smears. Visits to the local hospital and Casa Materna gave us a further look at the MINSA (Ministerio de Salud, or the government’s Department of Health) system in Nicaragua. The frustration but also ingenuity of the doctors was evident when they creatively met the medication needs of their patients.

The trip was not all work with no play. The staff of Enlace Project planned after-hours entertainment as well. We found respite from the heat by swimming in a few local rivers. We had salsa lessons, which we then practiced at a local Karaoke establishment. We waited for the rain to clear and squished under a pavilion to finally watch a horse race. My favorite was participating in the ‘English School’. I enjoyed watching the students who are dedicated to learn English. Their camaraderie and fun was contagious.

The leaders of Enlace have incredible maturity as young leaders within this community. I was extremely impressed with the different levels of local involvement, from tourism promotion to micro-financing. Enlace is to be commended for its mission and goals and has definitely made a difference in the small community of El Sauce and for the visiting groups like ours. Perhaps Enlace could be a model for many other areas of Nicaragua (and the world) that would benefit from having similar programs. I suggest a TED Talk to promote this unique program.

I would love to return with a big chunky grant to further help promote Enlace’s work! Maybe next summer!!

Student Testimonials: Patrick McCormick

• Patrick McCormick, a State University of New York at Geneseo Junior studying Political Science and Pre-Med, traveled to El Sauce in May 2013. During a two month stay, Pat participated in both the Humanities II and Service Learning programs that Geneseo offers. As president of Geneseo's Peace Action club, he looks back on the experience fondly. 

  In reflecting on his experience, Pat came across a journal entry that he had written for the Service Learning class, this one dated June 25, 2013:

  

  Patrick with his host father, Luis.

  My initial game plan of working with the dental health campaign was abruptly altered when the opportunity to work at the clinic with Dra. Sara fell into my lap. I really enjoyed working with her because she took time to explain what problems each patient was having as well as making me write down words I did not know. The four hours I spent there were a great insight into the daily challenges of a general practitioner and she was amazing at keeping me involved despite my limited Spanish. After four hours of continuous patients without any break, I was able to really appreciate the work she does in a community like El Sauce.

  Not to be out done, my afternoon was a totally different sort of adventure. Yesterday Luis, my host father, invited me to accompany him to the small community of Sálales to the northeast of El Sauce. He was there to try and solve a water rights issue and was also accompanied by two police officers and three others. One police officer gave a long speech on how the police would fight drugs in the community and asked the people to help as well.

  Luis has quite a way of commanding the respect of the people. They were far more attentive and responsive to his speech than that of the police officer or other man that spoke. After talking to the community we marched up toward the nearby mountain to take a look at the water dispute first hand. Apparently there is a man claiming his father gifted him the land where the water gathers, a spot that is no more than 20ft by 10ft, and claims to have the rights to the spring of water. The townspeople badly need the water and the discussion held theirs was lengthy, but rather fruitless in the end. Eventually we left thanking the community, and finally hopped back in the police truck that we road up in.

  The resolution of these types of community issues is Luis’s job everyday. He tells me that he must travel to communities in and around El Sauce and try to find solutions to all sorts of problems just like this with the hope of improving the community. I am very impressed with how hard he works and just how much he cares for these communities. He does not get angry or frustrated, yet continues to work everyday at this task. I guess that it is not surprising to me that Silvia loves him dearly and praised him for his enormous heart when he left after dinner; he truly cares about improving the lives of the poor and downtrodden. For my part I gained a whole new perspective on Luis today and much more respect for what he does. Our difficulty communicating has made talking hard at times, but I am honored he invited me to go to Sálales with him. This was an excellent day in El Sauce.

  For more information on Enlace Project's Study Abroad Opportunities, click here.

Student Testimonials: Kevin Àlvarez

State University of New York at Geneseo student Kevin Àlvarez, a Junior Pre-Physical Therapy and Spanish major, traveled to El Sauce, Nicaragua, in June 2013 to participate in the university's Service Learning class. Reflecting on his experience, Kevin wrote the following:

Kevin Àlvarez, center, working on Enlace Project's rural health care campaign.

It's hard to put into words the experience I had in Nicaragua and the amount of knowledge that I obtained within only a month. Nicaragua was life changing, eye-opening, and of course a lot fun. I feel so fortunate to have had the opportunity to meet so many people and connect with them during my sojourn in this culturally and historically rich land. My experience consisted of staying with a host family and mutually sharing each other's culture. This sharing revolved around the topics of family, religion, politics, music, economy and a myriad of others. Aside from the cultural exchange, I had the once in a lifetime opportunity to get some hands-on experience volunteering in a rural health post and the local hospital with the very little knowledge I had about health care. I observed and shadowed nurses and doctors and was able to see what their responsibilities consisted of on an almost daily basis. Living in this amazing country for one month truly put my life into perspective by allowing me to step out of my bubble and visit what I considered "the unknown". Studying abroad, learning, and meeting new souls is an experience that will stay in your mind and soul for the rest of your life and for me, Nicaragua was that experience.

The Long Hike: Javier Rocha’s Weekly Trip to Ocotal

Javier Rocha, a 20-year old university student, English-language teacher, and Juventud Sandinista member, displays an unparalleled amount of effort and care in his everyday life. Despite his young age, Javier has excelled in the advanced New York English School classroom, and began assisting the first-level English class this past April. The following month, Javier became the teacher of a new English class in the mountains of Ocotal for members of the Enlace-supported tourism, coffee, and basket-weaving cooperatives and their family members.

Sean (left) and Javier (right) climbing up to Ocotal on horseback.

For those who have had the pleasure to visit Los Altos de Ocotal, the rural community about 15 kilometers from the center of El Sauce, the first thing that most will notice is the lack of a paved road. Most Enlace Project-sponsored trips to Ocotal consist of travel in the back of a pickup truck—complete with bumpy roads, breathtaking views, and the occasional addition of a fellow traveler or two during the journey. Others will travel by horse, or even by foot, for up to a four hour walk.

Every Sunday, Javier spends about two hours in the morning walking up the mountain, until he reaches a familiar house that provides him with a horse for the second half of the journey. Once at the top, members of community enthusiastically welcome him with food and friendly conversation.

The English class itself takes place Sunday afternoons and Monday mornings, and Javier often spends the night with a family. Students gather around the one-classroom school as early as an hour before class and start practicing their English. During the class, students receive grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation lessons, accompanied by games and activities to practice previous the previous week’s themes. While the class is scheduled for three hours both days, it often carries on because the students are enjoying themselves.

Students participating in a conversational activity.

Currently, there are 17 students enrolled in the class, and the students’ ages vary from less than 10-years old to over-40 years old, with many in their teens and twenties. When asked why they want to learn English, many replied that it would help them to communicate with visitors and that they believed learning languages was interesting and important for everyone.

Javier and Enlace Project’s efforts are not alone—the Ocotal English Classes are supported by long-time Enlace Project friend and founding board member, Kris Dreessen. Kris, who visited El Sauce for the first time in 2009, says that “(the) residents’ devotion to improving their community and their resourcefulness was a real inspiration to me.” Her grassroots effort, known as The Friends Project, was founded in 2006 with the idea that everyone, especially working together, can make real differences and changes.

Javier and his Ocotal class pose for a photo.

Through donations and charity events, Kris has provided assistance to a wide range of Enlace Project’s programs, including funding for Fuente de Pino artisan training, a coffee bean toaster and bag sealer for the coffee cooperative, and scholarships for 6 students in El Sauce and Las Minitas teens to attend high school. As a professional photographer and journalist, Kris also launched The Friends Photo Project in 2011 with the mission of “sharing the language of photography” with residents of El Sauce.

Most recently, Kris has been preparing for her upcoming photo exhibit about life in El Sauce and remote Amazonian communities. The event, which will take place Wednesday, August 21, from 6-9 PM and Friday, August 23, 6-9 PM, will include photography from Kris and the students from The Friends Photo Project. On August 21, the New York State English School will be joining the exhibition, including Javier Rocha. Proceeds of the photos from the Las Minitas teens will support scholarships for students Lester, Yercenia, and Sergio to be able to attend college!

--Written by Sean Conner, Enlace Project Intern

Visit The Friends Project Facebook Page

Event Page for the Photo Exhibition

Kris Dreessen (right) with Enrique Corrales (left),
and Doribel Martinez Murillo (center), and  in Las Minitas

“I think the most important aspect of The Friends Project for me is the idea — and realization — that you don’t have to be rich, powerful or a big entity to make a difference. We are just “normal” people who believe that we can collaborate with families in other communities and share our talents and resources to empower them to fulfill their goals.

"In the states, $50 will get you a dinner for two. Not even a movie anymore. In many places, like El Sauce, $50 is the difference of attending a year of school, or the start-up to create your own business to make a living.”
                                                                                                         -Kris Dreessen