Jeff Barnes, strategic planner, had a very memorable conversation at the recent New Hope deed signing ceremony.  That day, Rigoberto Lopez approached him to express his gratitude for the opportunity to earn his land.  Jeff knew Rigoberto from the days when New Hope was built -- Jeff had managed the construction of the village and school, while Rigoberto worked on the crew. 

Perhaps because Jeff had seen so much of Rigoberto's journey over the past decade, his words meant a lot more than a simple thank you.  Read more... 

Photo:  Rigoberto stands with his family in front of their home in New Hope.

Not only did we meet our fundraising goals, but Noche also proved to be a wonderful time to connect with old and new friends, and our work in Guatemala.  Karla Heeter shared her life-changing relationship with student Walter Burgos, whom she sponsored with her husband, Ron Heeter.  Attendees met Walter through a video that was filmed and produced by Buck Holzemer and Patti Petrich of Buck Holzemer Productions.  The pair also produced four moving video vignettes presented during our needs auction.  Plus, they donated beautiful portraits of students who needed Sponsors, which were hung around the venue for guests to peruse.  At least 24 students were sponsored that evening! 
 
McDonald Remodeling and another anonymous group matched $10,000 for the housing and university scholarship auctions respectively.  With these donations, over $100,000 was raised for education, health care, housing, and university scholarships.  Ticket and Guatemalan market sales increased our total revenue to over $170,000.  Thank you to all who were involved in making this event a success.  To view one of the videos from the event, visit www.commonhope.org.