Common Hope News

Greetings! 

Happy early spring to you! A young pioneer and a young philanthropist are among the stories of the past month. We hope you enjoy seeing the good that is made possible by your support. Cheers!

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News from Guatemala
Luis Canel
Luis Angel Canel is the first affiliate in San Rafael to go to high school.
First in San Rafael to go to high school 

Luis Angel Canel is a very dedicated young man -- both to his studies and to supporting his family with farming. Luis is also a pioneer. The oldest of six siblings, this year he became the first affiliate in San Rafael to attend high school. He is studying automotive mechanics in nearby Sumpango, at least thirty minutes away. Classes start bright and early at 7:30 a.m., which means a very early morning to get to school on time.

 

Luis studied in junior high at the San Rafael tele-secondary school, where kids learn remotely from a teacher in another town. At school he has always demonstrated respect and a collaborative spirit. This past year, Luis's father approached social worker Mirna to express his desire that Luis continue his studies. "It is a great goal for the family, as it is for Common Hope," says Lesbia Marroquin, San Rafael coordinator. "It is an experience completely different than what they know," explains Lesbia, "to leave the community to attend school, a great change for any young person." 

 

Luis's family is clearly very committed to education; while even junior high is still uncommon in San Rafael, Luis's sister and brother currently attend the tele-secondary school. "We have much faith in everyone in this family, that they can follow the path Luis Angel is modeling," says Lesbia. Luis's youngest sibling has just started following in his footsteps -- she entered preschool this year.  

Supporters in action
Spencer
Spencer Paakkonen, young philanthropist.

In lieu of birthday gifts, 8-year-old asks for gifts to benefit children in Guatemala 

For his 8th birthday, Spencer decided to continue a tradition he started last year: to ask his friends to give to Common Hope instead of giving him birthday gifts. In Spencer's words, "It would make me proud and make my heart happy" to know that children from his birth country are living improved lives as a result. He believes the most important thing he can do is help Guatemalan children be healthy.

Spencer was born in Mixco, Guatemala and adopted when he was five months old. His family learned about Common Hope a few years ago when they went to a Latin American Heritage Camp, and Spencer has remained very interested in the activities of Common Hope ever since. Says his mother, Heidi Paakkonen, "Whenever we receive information from Common Hope, Spencer always wants to read about how Common Hope is helping children in Guatemala to attend school, move into new homes, and see a doctor or a dentist." Spencer made a brief announcement at his recent birthday party, explaining how his friends are helping children in Guatemala. "His friends are such an empathetic and rapt audience when he tells them that other kids need their help," says Heidi, "We were so impressed that eight year olds are so thoughtful!"

Spencer's mother Heidi says the family hopes to visit Guatemala when he is a little older, hopefully to help Common Hope in its efforts. This would be right up Spencer's alley -- he loves to travel and has accumulated quite a few frequent flyer miles already. "A career in flight might be in his future," says Heidi. On the other hand, Heidi says Spencer's compassion and interest in health and wellness might steer him to a health care career. Many thanks to Spencer for your commitment to the children of Guatemala!

Maria Angelina

Nely Garcia needs a sponsor 

Nely, age 12, comes from a large family of six children. Everyone in the family, which lives in San Miguel Milpas Altas, is motivated to continue their studies. Nely's father works very hard for the family as farmer, cultivating beans and corn. In addition to ensuring their children will pass their grade this year, the family has a goal of bettering their housing.

To sponsor her, please contact Jessie Szopinski via email, call (651) 917-0917, or sponsor her online.     

Help Wanted Sign









Volunteer coordinator needed in Guatemala  

Always wanted to live abroad? Know a recent college grad who is looking for valuable work experience? We're looking for a volunteer coordinator in Guatemala! This is a full-time position with a 1+ year commitment and includes a living stipend.

To get started, click here to read the full job description and fill out an application. If you have further questions, send an email to Lisa Hetzel in Guatemala.

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Chicken Bus

More news: Notes from the field 

New stories include a new Guinness World Record for Guatemala that involves 221 people, two chickens, and a chicken bus. Check out these stories and more on our blog, Notes from the field.
Best Buy building a home

Openings for Vision Teams 

Interested in planning a vacation with a vision next year? In 2012, we have the following openings:   

  • July 21-28
  • Aug 18-25
  • Sep 1-8
  • Sep 22-29 (team of individuals)
You can check out the trip calendar on our website. Talk to your friends, family, and co-workers, and start planning your trip of a lifetime.