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"Building Rhythm" Music Project
Joyful Noise
Caught in the act of lovin life, this photo was captured of Joaquin playing rhythm sticks after being invited to the stage by the band (LJQ). Frequently anxious, future oriented, and at times insecure about his abilities, I witnessed a freedom from all of those tensions in that moment. This memory along with my experience meeting with "Chirimia", a Colombian group of young special needs musicians, has inspired us to collaborate on a music project here in Santa Cruz. We have currently conducted two demo classes and are in the process of curriculum development. Our October 30, Salsa Event will support this project in 2011 along with providing assistance to our past projects in Peru and Africa. Watch the story of Chirimia in our media section by clicking at the top of this page.  |
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Maria Pilar | Success in Peru
Maria Pilar is three and a half years old. She was born at six months, premature and with cerebral palsy. At one and a half she began to have seizures that left her completely paralyzed, unable to sit on her own or stand. Her father drives a taxi and her mother is unable to work because of her constant care. For the past three years they have gone from clinic to clinic looking for help for their daughter. They were met, repeatedly, with the same response. "There is nothing that we can do to help Maria". (Jonathan) the physical therapist working part-time at our our Rehabilitation Center has brought hope to their lives along with others. Within three months of working with Jonathan, Maria was standing with the aid of her walker and able to sit alone. She was more than pleased to pose for many pictures showing off her new abilities and she radiates with determination to accomplish more. Thank you Jonathan, and to all you donors who made the Rehabilitation Center possible for the people of Chincha Baja, Peru!!
Jonathan is currently in need of a laptop for his work along with a guitar. He was recently robbed of his guitar on the way to conduct a music class with at-risk youth. Please contact us, if you or anyone you know may be able to answer this request. We would love to reward him for his dedication and work. The families truly love and cherish him. Call Cory at 831-477-7882. |
  Progress in Peru
New fences, new additions, workshops for families, and success stories is what I arrived to find on my recent August trip to our project in Peru. The mayor of Chincha Baja allocated money in the upcoming year for an additional room which will finalize the building of this project. The fence was being built during my stay and thanks to the Central Coast Children's Foundation I arrived with a suitcase full of communication materials for children with no speech. We are continuing to provide resources and money for maintenance to this center so that it is fully equipped. All salaries are provided by the municipality and they are well on their way to independence, growing daily, thanks to your support.
Two and a half years years ago I set foot in Chincha for the first time. It was the winter after the quake, the town was a tent city, the UN was still bringing in supplies, and the people were in a state of waiting, hoping, and not knowing what lie ahead. Three years later, they have risen from the ashes. There is now a new adult education center, a school project going up and people have been returned to newly built homes. Please enjoy the photos on the left of families using our center. Forward this e-mail to anyone you think may be interested in our work. And, have a day full of wonder!!! You made it happen! |
