tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63722100782631825722024-03-05T15:00:41.551-06:00Proyecto LagunaThis blog is a newsletter that will update interested persons on the current projects and activities of Proyecto Laguna (The Laguna Project). Proyecto Laguna is a non-profit charitable organization located in Diria, Nicaragua near Granada that works with the local schools and children as well as the greater community. It is our goal to educate, nourish and empower the people of this community in improving their own lives.Tracy Finchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03161124381829968369noreply@blogger.comBlogger41125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6372210078263182572.post-30736887501543973012009-04-19T18:49:00.002-06:002009-04-19T19:02:26.563-06:00Proyecto Laguna Completes Construction in Seven SchoolsLast week Proyecto Laguna completed construction of water tanks and latrine repairs in 7 schools. Thanks to the grant we received from Pangea, the technical direction from Living Earth Institute, and our hands on work every school in the Diria school district now has a water storage tank. This means that thousands of children now have access to water daily at school. Our initial plan to install tanks in 5 schools was expanded to 6 when costs were lower than expected. We were then able to expand to a 7th school. Last year we installed a water tank in the Monsignor school.<br />Along with installing tanks we installed hand-washing and mop-washing stations so that the children have a place to wash their hands and a separate place to wash the mop. It is our hope that the things the children learned during the water day celebrations will stay with them and they will wash their hands regularly and take care of the water system.<br />Along with the water tanks we also repaired latrines in several schools. In the El Arroyo #1 school we have bought the materials for a new latrine (the old one was almost full and the base was broken) and the parents are currently constructing it. <br />The parents, students, and teachers are very happy with this project and have committed to care for it and maintain it. We, at Proyecto Laguna, feel proud to have been able to help these communities and improve sanitation and health for these students.Jen Schwinnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17463953203867782430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6372210078263182572.post-43857470572610298882009-03-19T12:58:00.003-06:002009-03-19T13:34:15.643-06:00Schools Celebrate World Water Day<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIxxQESRHmQ5WSDksaCQQ527h3OgpWUKmVVIf35p3O3E5WS-Kc0nlD-U8AiDI74ESOL4gq_Lt8oqJ5xYQ6QJcXK-9vBsadoQ8QND-k2snLFVzVioE0M2Xv7cggI3jUZPuMb1k0zk_BnD5G/s1600-h/Construction+2009+water+day+047.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 112px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIxxQESRHmQ5WSDksaCQQ527h3OgpWUKmVVIf35p3O3E5WS-Kc0nlD-U8AiDI74ESOL4gq_Lt8oqJ5xYQ6QJcXK-9vBsadoQ8QND-k2snLFVzVioE0M2Xv7cggI3jUZPuMb1k0zk_BnD5G/s200/Construction+2009+water+day+047.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5314979271251794594" /></a><br />Diria schools participated in World Water Day Celebrations this week and learned about care of water, the environment, and personal hygiene. As part of our work constructing water storage tanks and improving latrines with Living Earth Institute and Pangea it is important that we educate the children and community on the proper care of the tank, hygiene, and other related themes. As a result we took advantage of World Water Day, March 22nd, and had celebrations in the school.<br />The 4th, 5th, and 6th grade children participated in a presentation competition and gave presentations on care of the environment, personal hygiene, and care of school property. The younger children performed folkloric dances and participated in a variety of games and competitions. The schools were very organized and excited about this event.<br />It was a very fun and educational day, a day in which the results of the work we have done in these small rural communities was evident.Jen Schwinnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17463953203867782430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6372210078263182572.post-23361512334742423492009-03-05T11:39:00.004-06:002009-03-05T15:27:14.050-06:00Construction of Water Storage Tanks Starts in Six Schools<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKInEEQBceSorBUcOiTTd9ef7lsd0KMuB9wXule4cPtK8Zp0vs_I2SjE7_CazXJFTu_1tDGBZlfUXJRwrmqsaZavqAYgSggakKHBhaL2mDfz3lDlIj8V_h3ANJNzu0n48TuMaH6C95TCXu/s1600-h/Alice's+Visit+064.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 112px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKInEEQBceSorBUcOiTTd9ef7lsd0KMuB9wXule4cPtK8Zp0vs_I2SjE7_CazXJFTu_1tDGBZlfUXJRwrmqsaZavqAYgSggakKHBhaL2mDfz3lDlIj8V_h3ANJNzu0n48TuMaH6C95TCXu/s200/Alice's+Visit+064.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5309761645249520482" /></a><br />Proyecto Laguna, working in conjunction with the Living Earth Institute, has started construction in six schools. Our initial plan was to install water storage tanks and repair latrines in 5 schools. Luckily, we were able to stretch the money to include six. This means that every school that is in the countryside of Diria will soon have a back-up source of water. Water is important for health and hygiene and having a storage tank will greatly benefit the students at these schools. We are also repairing latrines in these schools so that the children have a safe, private, place to use the bathroom.<br />Proyecto Laguna is also working with the parents at each school to help them raise money and put together a maintenance plan so that they can maintain this project independently. We are working in conjunction with the Ministry of Health to start classes in each school focusing on health and hygiene and proper use and care of water and latrines.Jen Schwinnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17463953203867782430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6372210078263182572.post-45254032172708932832009-02-09T15:34:00.003-06:002009-02-09T15:51:28.340-06:00The Sta. Elena School has a Garage SaleLast month the local delegate from the Ministry of Education approached us for help with a problem; at the Sta. Elena school the kindergarten and first grade were sharing a classroom and the children were distracting each other too much for the teachers to teach them. He asked if Proyecto Laguna would help them build a division in the classroom so that it could act as two separate classrooms.<br />Proyecto Laguna met with the parents and teachers and helped them set up a garage sale fundraiser. The parents and teachers were motivated and well organized. We provided them with donated clothing, toys and household goods and last weekend they sold these items to people in the community. They made over $100 and now have enough to build the much needed division.<br />We are very happy that we were able to help them and glad that they were able to take the initiative to hold the sale and raise the funds.<br />Proyecto Laguna would like to thank everyone who donated items to the garage sale. You have made a difference for the kindergartners and first graders in Sta. Elena.Jen Schwinnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17463953203867782430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6372210078263182572.post-8377184937013045512009-02-05T16:17:00.003-06:002009-02-05T16:27:12.032-06:00850 Needy Children in Diria Receive Backpacks and School Supplies<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip-nVgnBC1RGN3z-96HW1YWX4e_T87tYVmmKV9YnKHfnZMQk0wMkim1W45h-_WRsjKWlvijuNXOYyGxnSd9H1DSQeeJUJl5nBI15hB_VmcCW-U6P6sidgFdcabxOrdggzRsJ4n9EJ-M0p3/s1600-h/DSC03807.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip-nVgnBC1RGN3z-96HW1YWX4e_T87tYVmmKV9YnKHfnZMQk0wMkim1W45h-_WRsjKWlvijuNXOYyGxnSd9H1DSQeeJUJl5nBI15hB_VmcCW-U6P6sidgFdcabxOrdggzRsJ4n9EJ-M0p3/s200/DSC03807.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5299443136181534338" /></a><br />The new school year in Nicaragua started on Tuesday and Proyecto Laguna has been hard at work getting together all of the school supplies and backpacks for the children.<br />Proyecto Laguna has distributed 850 backpacks, handmade by our seamstress group. All of our registered children received school supplies including pencils, notebooks, pens, erasers, pencils sharpeners, colored pencils, and more.<br />It has been great to watch the children walking down the street to school proudly carrying their backpacks.<br />Thank you to all of you who helped us help these children attend school and have a brighter future.Jen Schwinnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17463953203867782430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6372210078263182572.post-60101458707725647852009-01-22T15:04:00.002-06:002009-01-22T15:19:31.442-06:00Proyecto Laguna to Install Water Tanks and Repair Latrines in 5 SchoolsProyecto Laguna has received a grant from Pangea (www.pangeagiving.org) to install water tanks and repair latrines at 5 schools in the Diria area. We are happy to be working with Pangea again this year.<br />Living Earth Institute (www.living-earth.org) will be providing the technical knowledge and we look forward their engineer, Alice Lancaster, coming down to visit in February.<br />Proyecto Laguna will be managing the construction and working with the parents and teachers to help them set up a fund for maintaining the project. Proyecto Laguna will also be providing health education classes in the school to educate the children on the importance of using the latrine facilities, hand washing, and other hygiene issues.<br />When this project is complete over 800 children will have improved access to water and sanitation.<br />We would like to thank both Pangea and the Living Earth Institute for their continued support of our work and for their efforts to help the children of Diria.Jen Schwinnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17463953203867782430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6372210078263182572.post-29484987002399323162009-01-05T15:47:00.003-06:002009-01-05T15:48:47.577-06:00Happy new year and thank you to all of our donorsWe hope you had a wonderful holiday season are having a happy new year.<br /><br />With your help we were able to raise over $3000 through our calendar sales. This is enough money for us to ensure that over 800 children in Diriá, Nicaragua will receive the necessary school supplies to attend school in the 2009 school year.<br /><br />We are very happy that we will be able to continue helping the children of this town and very thankful to you, our donors, for making our work possible.<br /><br />Due to your generous donation each of the children enrolled in our program will receive a backpack filled with school supplies; notebooks, pens, pencils, rulers, crayons, pencil sharpeners, and more. Many children in Nicaragua are unable to attend school because their families cannot afford to buy them these basic items.<br /><br />Your donation will also be used to keep our school nurse working in the schools providing basic medical care to the students.<br /><br />Thank you for your generosity and caring.<br /><br />We still have some calendars available if you weren't able to buy one before. Please contact us at contact@proyectolaguna.com if you'd like to order one...or more.Jen Schwinnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17463953203867782430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6372210078263182572.post-9435092068305257812009-01-05T15:45:00.002-06:002009-01-05T15:47:17.624-06:00The Seamstress Group Shows Thanks<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvQEXSN6a2Cks47N8yFMJj8kRk4yu6T0VM4-8pfUJkFop27mh4QLUhPYFlI46czt00MtQADkf1M_u7HU5X7BczZf_ofF29XnhKUCz3qCpyPjDIkbijpDmMTgSBF2ZbzDqy9gkWC2mS5ymK/s1600-h/Seamtress+Party+018.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvQEXSN6a2Cks47N8yFMJj8kRk4yu6T0VM4-8pfUJkFop27mh4QLUhPYFlI46czt00MtQADkf1M_u7HU5X7BczZf_ofF29XnhKUCz3qCpyPjDIkbijpDmMTgSBF2ZbzDqy9gkWC2mS5ymK/s200/Seamtress+Party+018.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5287929418943039202" border="0" /></a>
<br /><meta equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><meta name="ProgId" content="Word.Document"><meta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 11"><meta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 11"><link rel="File-List" href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5COwner%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtml1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml"><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="City"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="place"></o:smarttagtype><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> <w:dontgrowautofit/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:latentstyles deflockedstate="false" latentstylecount="156"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if !mso]><object classid="clsid:38481807-CA0E-42D2-BF39-B33AF135CC4D" id="ieooui"></object> <style> st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } </style> <![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal">In December our group of seamstresses and tailors threw a thank you party for us to thank us for all the work we have been doing with them. With their hard work and our marketing they have had more work and been able to support their families better. The seamstress group has been making reusable shopping bags and beach bags and has received contracts with a variety of businesses. Most recently they have started making clothing for a shop in <st1:city st="on"><st1:place st="on">Granada</st1:place></st1:city>.
<br />To show their thanks the seamstresses and tailors took our director, Jennifer Schwinn, out for dinner and dancing at the overlook in Diriá. Adolfo, one of the tailors, stated to Jennifer that they wanted to thank Proyecto Laguna for all our hard work in helping in their community and helping them improve their lives. It was a wonderful afternoon and it was nice to see how appreciative the community is.</p> Jen Schwinnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17463953203867782430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6372210078263182572.post-6883789797913651352008-11-19T17:56:00.004-06:002008-11-19T18:02:30.184-06:00Proyecto Laguna is Making a Difference<span style="font-weight: bold;">Check us out and Join Our Good Work</span><br /><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 6pt; text-align: center;" align="center"><b style=""><span style="font-family:Tahoma;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:10;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:10;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b style=""><i style="">Since its inception in January of 2007 Proyecto Laguna has achieved the following:<o:p></o:p></i></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="square"><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 6pt;"><span style="font-size:100%;">501(c)3 non-profit status,<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 6pt;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Registered as an official non-governmental organization with the Nicaraguan government.<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 6pt;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Provided school supplies twice per school year to over 800 students.</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjceT1s5k1_-0STkVfUSpYGsQ6KwzjYyaIiCODmcrQVeMLeKjBVHMlViOYWLoXpE8MWQM8BFdLFijD8ur26bOAoEJ6LuSdy4t8lSL5u3-fj0IgU4SdpTt6xg13g3cKnPTZWEz4cp0yT80Z6/s1600-h/0629_0120.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjceT1s5k1_-0STkVfUSpYGsQ6KwzjYyaIiCODmcrQVeMLeKjBVHMlViOYWLoXpE8MWQM8BFdLFijD8ur26bOAoEJ6LuSdy4t8lSL5u3-fj0IgU4SdpTt6xg13g3cKnPTZWEz4cp0yT80Z6/s200/0629_0120.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5270523212488839458" border="0" /></a></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 6pt;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Provided over 600 pairs of shoes.<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 6pt;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Provided over 200 school uniforms.<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 6pt;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Provided 50 teachers with classroom supplies.<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 6pt;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Provided basic medical care to over 900 students.<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 6pt;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Worked with the schools to register them with the American Nicaraguan Foundation to receive furniture and school supplies twice per year.<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 6pt;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Provi</span><span style="font-size:100%;">ded furniture, such as a cabinets and bookshelves, to the schools.<span style=""> </span>Furniture was made by a local carpenter.<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 6pt;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Provided sporting equipment to the schools.<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 6pt;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Installed wall mounted pencil sharpeners in every classroom.<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 6pt;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Provided small rewards every month to two students in each class as a form of motivation.<span style=""> </span>A reward is given to the student with the best grades and the student who has put forth the best effort.<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 6pt;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Formed parent groups in each of the three schools that work in concert with Proyecto Laguna to set goals for the schools.<span style=""> </span>Parent groups are responsible for assisting with grant applications and fundraising.<span style=""> </span>They raise funds through raffles, clothing sales, food sales, and movie nights.<span style=""> </span>Each parent group has a savings account and use the money they earn to assist the school with maintenance and other needs.<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 6pt;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Formed</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkAMOdSRWjfEDHwbeC-yrKVvC0c7TJ0Y6eggPiJkNL77qAjhX2uIAHMlJg_a4mAmCv9nX-LdG4tJz8NqksME7-pBHSyqDjby7fRdbZAXe5gC3gMhIIf3fWb1dT0B-CNQ3o28Nq6xM4YWci/s1600-h/Chip+entero3+169.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkAMOdSRWjfEDHwbeC-yrKVvC0c7TJ0Y6eggPiJkNL77qAjhX2uIAHMlJg_a4mAmCv9nX-LdG4tJz8NqksME7-pBHSyqDjby7fRdbZAXe5gC3gMhIIf3fWb1dT0B-CNQ3o28Nq6xM4YWci/s200/Chip+entero3+169.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5270522638619909346" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:100%;"> a cobblers co-op in Diria that makes shoes for the project.<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 6pt;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Formed a seamstress co-op in Diria that makes backpacks for the project.<span style=""> </span>The seamstress co-op has recently started marketing handmade bags and received contracts from businesses in <st1:city st="on"><st1:place st="on">Managua</st1:place></st1:city> to make reusable grocery bags, beach bags, and other types of bags. <o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 6pt;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Received a grant from the Pangea Project in conjunction with the Living Earth Institute and installed a municipal water reservoir tank, a rain water collection tank, rain gutters, a drainage system, and repaired latrines in the <st1:place st="on"><st1:placename st="on">Ruiz</st1:placename> <st1:placename st="on">Castillo</st1:placename> <st1:placetype st="on">School</st1:placetype></st1:place>.<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 6pt;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Repaired and remodeled the pre-school building at the <st1:place st="on"><st1:placename st="on">Anne</st1:placename> <st1:placename st="on">Frank</st1:placename> <st1:placename st="on">School</st1:placename></st1:place> which was previously in a dangerous state of disrepair.<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 6pt;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Installation of new water reservoir tanks in the <st1:place st="on"><st1:placename st="on">Anne</st1:placename> <st1:placename st="on">Frank</st1:placename> <st1:placename st="on">School</st1:placename></st1:place>.<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 6pt;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Provided potable water to two schools with no water source by paying for water and transportation by ox-cart.<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 6pt;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Applied for a grant to build school kitchens in two schools.<span style=""> </span>The grant was approved and we are now on the waiting list for construction.<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 6pt;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Proyecto Laguna is currently being considered by Pangea for a second grant for $10,000 to be used to install water reservoir tanks in 5 schools and repair existing latrines.<o:p></o:p></span></li></ul> <ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="square"><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 6pt;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Received a grant from Google for advertising valued at $120,000 per year. (<i style="">This is not a cash grant but we receive the equivalent from them in online advertising.</i>)</span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 6pt;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Provided emergency food and clothing for families in severe need.<br /></span></li></ul> <ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="square"><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 6pt;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Provided medical care to several special needs cases including the following:<o:p></o:p></span></li><ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="circle"><li class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="font-size:100%;">CT scans and medications for a child with epilepsy,<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="font-size:100%;">Orthopedic shoes and/or braces to 15 children,<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="font-size:100%;">Paid for surgery and medication for a child with an intestinal blockage,<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="font-size:100%;">Paid for physical therapy for several children,<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="font-size:100%;">Paid for psychological counseling for children with special needs,<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="font-size:100%;">Currently working to assist a child with an extra digit on each hand and foot receive plastic surgery,<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="font-size:100%;">Coordinated with Operation Smile to enroll children in Diria with cleft lips and palates to receive surgery, and<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="font-size:100%;">Paid for a mother with severe heart problems to receive testing and medication.<o:p></o:p></span></li></ul><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 6pt;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Organized the school gardens initiative in conjunction with the Ministry of Education and the American Chamber of Commerce.</span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 6pt;"><span style="font-size:100%;">and more!<br /></span></li></ul>Jen Schwinnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17463953203867782430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6372210078263182572.post-28948559859970712932008-11-18T08:19:00.003-06:002008-11-19T10:32:18.451-06:00Proyecto Laguna Bazaar-An Opportunity to Support Socially Responsible Nicaraguan OrganizationsProyecto Laguna is holding a bazaar to help support socially responsible Nicaraguan organizations and to give you a chance to do some holiday shopping.<br /><br />To date 25 socially responsible non-profit and for-profit organizations are attending and will be selling a variety of items such as:<br /><br />Handmade Toys<br />Newspaper baskets<br />Handmade Clothing<br />Mosaic and painted tables<br />Homemade soap<br />Iron Art<br />Gift Cards<br />Artisan Chocolates<br />Handmade paper<br />Jewelry<br />Cheese<br />Calendars<br />Dried Fruit<br />and more!<br /><br />This event is hosted by Proyecto Laguna and will be fun for the entire family with a children's story time, visits with Santa, organic food from Ola Verde, a full bar, and much more.<br /><br />Please come down to Frontera Books on December 6th and support the non-profits of Nicaragua while doing your holiday shopping.<br /><br /><table class="info_table" border="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr><td class="label">Date:</td><td><div class="datawrap">Saturday, December 6, 2008</div></td></tr><tr><td class="label">Time:</td><td><div class="datawrap">11:00am - 6:00pm</div></td></tr><tr><td class="label">Location:</td><td><div class="datawrap">Frontera Books</div></td></tr><tr><td class="label">Street:</td><td><div class="datawrap">Semf. Enitel Villa Fontana, 200 v al lago, Esquina Sur Mama Delfina</div></td></tr><tr><td class="label">City/Town:</td><td><div class="datawrap">Managua, Nicaragua</div></td></tr></tbody></table>Jen Schwinnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17463953203867782430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6372210078263182572.post-19786783590224000212008-11-18T08:14:00.004-06:002008-11-19T10:30:51.286-06:00Changes to Service Delivery in 2009<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrDkWQ2kMw9UaS2K2CRNWU7cVc-mW-ED_gJYgQ3iID7taQ3zhjxnmntTP6w2ggPpVmPWOP7y6i88_nq0yfbV8UVjONYOux4oGHmUGP0OXFwSvIYJdAuHfTGNavMrfwygfd_sUXXo7jynl0/s1600-h/Logo+w+background.PNG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 96px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrDkWQ2kMw9UaS2K2CRNWU7cVc-mW-ED_gJYgQ3iID7taQ3zhjxnmntTP6w2ggPpVmPWOP7y6i88_nq0yfbV8UVjONYOux4oGHmUGP0OXFwSvIYJdAuHfTGNavMrfwygfd_sUXXo7jynl0/s200/Logo+w+background.PNG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5270001303315982210" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpKslphvklU_Zitz__2jujsEGO1RI-aV4mT-SNVvqaBEAD5gV-i-RLqdF59jyWd_mOJfFYaCWk5UmF6FP_vYZ0UOmgTkMD925GcdJ46vI-LAgW8PxNSwfi9KVGZVeyv6UMVXTeT3qMc8Mv/s1600-h/Logo+w+background.PNG"> </a><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">Dear Proyecto Laguna Supporters,<o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">We hope that as an exciting year comes to an end you are all well and enjoying life.<o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">On behalf of Proyecto Laguna, we are sending this letter to inform you of some changes that will be making in 2009 to how we deliver services to our communities and schools.<span style=""> </span>Proyecto Laguna is currently working in three schools in <st1:place st="on"><st1:city st="on">Diriá</st1:city>, <st1:country-region st="on">Nicaragua</st1:country-region></st1:place>, and we have over 800 children registered in our child sponsorship program.<span style=""> </span>We have decided to reformat the child sponsorship program to ensure that we deliver the best services to the students in our schools more equitably.<span style=""> </span>We will continue to provide school supplies<s> </s>and medical care to children in need but we will no longer run the program through individual child sponsorships.<o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">For those of you who have sponsored children, he or she <u>will</u> continue to be sponsored throughout the time you have committed.<o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">In 2009, we will continue to provide school supplies and backpacks to the children who are involved in our program to help ensure that they are able to attend school. As funding allows, we will also provide shoes and uniforms to those in need.<span style=""> </span>You, our generous donors, can continue to help keep these children in school by making donations to Proyecto Laguna that will be used to help these students.<span style=""> </span>We hope that this move away from individual sponsorship will allow us to support a greater number of students instead of focusing on a select few. <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Proyecto Laguna is dedicated to helping the people of Diria.<span style=""> </span>We are working hard to continue our programs with the parent groups, sewing co-op, school directors and the health programs.<span style=""> </span>We still rely solely on the donations of our supporters for funding.<span style=""> </span>This year, your tax-exempt donation will go to benefit not just one child, but many more, and we hope that your support will continue.<span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Please visit our website frequently for blog updates at www.proyectolaguna.com.<span style=""> </span>If you have any questions about the project or about this change, please don’t hesitate to email.<o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Thank you for your continued support,<o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Proyecto Laguna Staff<br /></p>Jen Schwinnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17463953203867782430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6372210078263182572.post-48793558111161373652008-11-18T08:01:00.004-06:002008-11-18T08:58:50.462-06:00Proyecot Laguna Supports Diria's Seamstresses and TailorsProyecto Laguna is currently working on marketing the products of Diria's seamstresses and tailors to other organizations and businesses to assist in providing a steady source of employment for these residents.<br />The seamstresses and tailors currently have a contract with Don Pan, a bakery chain, to make reusable grocery bags. They also have a contract with Ola Verde, a restaurant in Managua, to make canvas catch-all bags. There are several other business interested in their products and we hope to be signing contracts with them soon.<br />The seamstresses and tailors are very happy that they have this source of income and we hope that we will continue to be able to find businesses interested in their products.Jen Schwinnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17463953203867782430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6372210078263182572.post-12807150660346449372008-11-03T09:33:00.006-06:002008-11-03T10:15:49.500-06:002009 Calendars Available!<img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 156px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7qMxXd1sC0RZcaJu7cb8NLrX_xUh-qJElit_SkPQwZYqhZSQ5Mwg_p1LwA2QQLJA3hxjjYUH-2jIj9QL_uIpvyXoRJfPD0M9vYeQEOjAHp8MBl77x8s3bWJbKoLIGRKToYwiHR7UWt87h/s200/CoverFinalf.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264455447097926418" /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">It is with great excitement that we announce that our 2009 Calendars have arrived and are available for sale. Our friend Kristine Ambrose has been working hard to get the design perfected using her photographs from her visit last year. </span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">We are very pleased with the outcome and think you will be too. The sales of the calendar is our major fundraising event this season. We know that money is tight all over the world right now and for this we especially appreciate all donations made to Proyecto Laguna. We are hoping to sell all 1000 copies before the end of the year. These funds will give us the budget to purchase school supplies for the new school year starting in January as well as keeping our nurse on staff and supplied with basic necessities.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 156px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9ahldi7XMytmGSqRfvEevDvGLsNoMojblXQRmxQxvn2T84pIaaU5Ac39wfCZTQYoKwZR0MwkRcvSrKKPZ4OrYE3tICrWqPDv2GLi31rGcsqQ9ovAakGZRe1Jwh3vjEhjsGNLI2hVOmjnK/s200/Februaryv1f.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264459072171633890" /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">For those of you in the United States, purchasing calendars is easy. The donation per calendar is $20 each. Simply go to this link on our website to use our secure server: </span><a href="http://www.proyectolaguna.com"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">www.pro</span></a><a href="http://www.proyectolaguna.com"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">yectolaguna.com </span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">. Click on "Give Now" and use the General Donation option. You will receive a confirmation email including a tax deductible letter. Then your calendar will be mailed to you from Los Angeles. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">For purchases in Nicaragua please email us at: </span><a href="http://contact@proyectolaguna.com"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">contact@proyectolaguna.com</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> and we will let you know where they can be purchased or get them to you. The cost for the calendars in Nicaragua is 200Cordobas and we can accept cash or checks. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">This is our first year selling calendars as a fundraiser and we hope to continue in the future. Please consider giving the calendars as gifts this year for the holidays. The donations made for each one goes a long way here in Nicaragua to make a big difference in the life of a child. Remember that all donations are tax deductible. Also, if you are interested in helping us sell them at your work, school or church, please </span><a href="http://contact@proyectolaguna.com"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">contact us</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> and we will be happy to send you as many as you would like. Thank you!</span></div><div><br /></div>Tracy Finchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03161124381829968369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6372210078263182572.post-30641878281189018232008-10-20T13:15:00.005-06:002008-10-20T13:24:43.934-06:00Nicaraguan Students Celebrate Columbus Day<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6bjiRfrEr0dxi3dPmQ73oygFp_VBqtffrQeDJskmXHmEdDHx7Y46elXMs0zYkZrWSpXVHBIHl8aMJOQ8J7UbLLLBIgCdP-4EkQUntg5xx7GgzaBm3lS_NrtT_BzgWA2uT8R5nohRLjYnZ/s1600-h/DSC04364.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6bjiRfrEr0dxi3dPmQ73oygFp_VBqtffrQeDJskmXHmEdDHx7Y46elXMs0zYkZrWSpXVHBIHl8aMJOQ8J7UbLLLBIgCdP-4EkQUntg5xx7GgzaBm3lS_NrtT_BzgWA2uT8R5nohRLjYnZ/s200/DSC04364.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259317827308395394" border="0" /></a>In Nicaragua Columbus Day is celebrated as Hispanic Day. Nicaraguans celebrate the unique culture they have as a mix of Spanish and Indigenous blood and culture. In the Diria schools there was a large celebration with folkloric dances, marching bands, and presentations of poems and songs.<br />Everyone had a nice morning as children and parents from all of the area schools gathered at Ruiz Castillo for the celebration.Jen Schwinnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17463953203867782430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6372210078263182572.post-58930615729417739472008-10-13T08:47:00.002-06:002008-10-13T12:33:52.084-06:00Clothing Sale Helps Students Raise Money for Graduation<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhszf7y5eCPKk39FResgvXc96p4f-ooMvkBIpdbhAJ7znRnM44VoqnDl2SNTPfbqB63t8mwjttybKlApqQTDoR-LbfwlWRjwxAr8p1N3ETSq7BccVsYmP6mYhxpPfLDi6HfnnLOt2-o2xLj/s1600-h/DSC04332.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhszf7y5eCPKk39FResgvXc96p4f-ooMvkBIpdbhAJ7znRnM44VoqnDl2SNTPfbqB63t8mwjttybKlApqQTDoR-LbfwlWRjwxAr8p1N3ETSq7BccVsYmP6mYhxpPfLDi6HfnnLOt2-o2xLj/s200/DSC04332.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5256708271475765938" border="0" /></a>A few months ago Proyecto Laguna was approached by the graduating high school students at the Anne Frank school. They asked us to help pay for their graduation ceremony. We decided that what we would do is help the graduating classes from Anne Frank--preschool, 6th grade, and high school--raise money for their own graduations.<br /><p class="MsoNormal">Saturday was the big day and Proyecto Laguna brought in donated clothing and housing goods and the parents and students of the classes that are graduating held a sale. People from the community were able to come and buy clothing and household goods for very affordable prices and the students and parents were able to raise over $200 for graduation.<br />It is the hope of Proyecto Laguna that by providing an opportunity for the community to raise money for itself we are also empowering them and teaching them to help themselves and put the effort forth to make things happen within their own community.</p>Jen Schwinnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17463953203867782430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6372210078263182572.post-69720660856642274272008-10-03T20:47:00.003-06:002008-10-03T21:03:02.494-06:00Proyecto Laguna and ANS Drama Club UniteThis week Proyecto Laguna recieved great news from the Drama Club at the American Nicaraguan School in Managua. We have been chosen by the group of about 70 Middle and High School students as their Community Service project. This is a great opportunity for both sides. The students at ANS will be learning how they can make a difference in the lives of children less fortunate while the foundation benefits from all the extra assistance! The Drama teacher, Mrs. Jennifer Gallegos, says that Proyecto Laguna was chosen because of our diverse projects including; improving access to education, providing basic health care, distribution of potable water and working with the community providing sustainable jobs. This week founder, Tracy Finch, spoke with the group about the foundation's mission and goals. We have begun discussing ways that the Drama Club can raise money and exactly how those funds can provide aid. <div>We would like to thank the school for this opportunity and we are looking forward to a long and successful relationship with the students at ANS! <div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div>Tracy Finchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03161124381829968369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6372210078263182572.post-56377309572239699852008-10-01T08:26:00.004-06:002008-10-01T09:11:15.014-06:00Proyecto Laguna Purchases Materials to Make 850 Backpacks<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx85-bycUYL_DBXvhnhU3J_SKmR5ounTNUwlm70es-a_fVW8WKU40xxf7C8GjET3yJq-KuOexOL4B1S1TWsW0SfikKOHQzUIMAFDoZm37MgHSiw8svzhwBzCASehufAlbIWZx6raROlJC-/s1600-h/DSC03894.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 201px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx85-bycUYL_DBXvhnhU3J_SKmR5ounTNUwlm70es-a_fVW8WKU40xxf7C8GjET3yJq-KuOexOL4B1S1TWsW0SfikKOHQzUIMAFDoZm37MgHSiw8svzhwBzCASehufAlbIWZx6raROlJC-/s200/DSC03894.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5252203166703177554" border="0" /></a>Last Friday, Proyecto Laguna, with two Diria seamstresses, purchased materials for 850 backpacks at the Oriental Market in Managua. The Oriental Market is the largest market in Managua and is always an adventure full of sights and sounds and the frantic market pace. All of the supplies were delivered to Diria and distributed among the 11 seamstresses and tailors who are now getting started on making the backpacks we will need to distribute to the students of Diria for the start of the new school year in February. By working with local seamstresses we are able to provide employment for local residents and the money we spend on backpacks stays within the community.<br />Proyecto Laguna is currently working on marketing the products of Diria's seamstresses and tailors to other organizations and businesses to assist in providing a steady source of employment for these residents. The seamstresses and tailors have made several sample bags and we have gotten some interest from businesses in Managua. We hope to complete contracts with these businesses soon and have more work for these seamstresses and tailors.Jen Schwinnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17463953203867782430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6372210078263182572.post-66598523210056422192008-09-24T18:49:00.003-06:002008-09-24T18:57:51.095-06:00The Minister of Education Visits DiriaOn September 23 the Minister of Education visited Diria. The local educational community was very excited to receive his visit and prepared a large meeting including folkloric dance performances and presentations on the state of the education system in Diria. Teachers were given an opportunity to bring up their concerns directly to the minister; lack of latrines in some schools, a need for more classrooms, and a lack of basic supplies. The minister spoke of the literacy program that is working to eradicate illiteracy in Nicaragua and about the steps he hopes to take to improve the education system.Jen Schwinnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17463953203867782430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6372210078263182572.post-31529005264432409132008-09-22T20:24:00.004-06:002008-09-22T20:45:57.501-06:00Donating by Check is Now Easier!Proyecto Laguna is happy to announce a new and easy way to make donations. Our bank in the United States, PNC, is offering a convenient way to make your tax exempt donation. You can simply mail a check to them directly with our account information in the memo line and the amount will be deposited into our account. When we receive confirmation that the check has cleared, you will receive a tax exemption letter to use while filing your taxes. <div><br /></div><div>This time of year is critical for fundraising so please take this opportunity to make a donation today! We have many children that still need to be sponsored (only $100 per child, per year) so that they can have new shoes and uniforms to attend school. All donations to the general fund go to support the school nurse and basic medical supplies, school supplies at three schools and water delivered to two schools weekly. </div><div><br /></div><div>To use this easy method of donating, simply send a check written to <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Laguna Project <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; ">with our account number in the memo line, #<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; ">5528164743</span>.</span></span></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Mail your donation check to:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">PNC Bank</div><div style="text-align: left;">attn: Bank by Mail</div><div style="text-align: left;">PO Box 8108</div><div style="text-align: left;">Philadelphia PA 19101-8108</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Thank you so much for your support! Without all of our generous donors, we wouldn't be able to continue our important work here in Nicaragua. If you have any questions about this donation method, please contact us anytime. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>Tracy Finchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03161124381829968369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6372210078263182572.post-34999537067922675072008-09-15T16:34:00.004-06:002008-09-15T17:23:11.684-06:00Nicaraguans Celebrate Their CountryThe last week has been full of parties and parades as it was the week of celebrating Nicaraguan Independence. The culmination of the week was on both Sunday Sept 14th, which is the anniversary of the battle of San Jacinto and Monday Sept 15th which is Independence Day. The schools had been preparing their marching bands for weeks and had a wonderful parade through Diria on Sunday.<br />On Friday afternoon there was a party in Diria and all of the students gathered to watch a torch, that had been touring the country, go by. The parent's group prepared juice and snacks and sold them at this party to raise funds to help maintain the school. The tamales Carla made where a smash hit and sold out in 10 seconds flat!Jen Schwinnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17463953203867782430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6372210078263182572.post-21150141146205981762008-09-12T08:00:00.002-06:002008-09-12T08:23:51.113-06:00Proyecto Laguna Receives Grant From Google!It is with great pride that we formally announce that Google, the internet and information powerhouse, has enthusiastically provided Proyecto Laguna with a grant to help increase awareness of our work in Nicaragua. After many, many months of communication we received the approval and notification from their organization two weeks ago. This is incredible news for us and also a sign of the impact that we are having in this area of the world.<br /><br />So what does this mean for Proyecto Laguna and what is the grant for?<br /><br />The grant given to us by Google is a marketing and advertising grant valued at US $120,000.00 per year. The grant is a permament grant and will be made available to Proyecto Laguna for as long as we operate in good standing within the regulations of our US 501(c)(3) status. The grant will provide advertising and marketing services from Google for increasing awareness of our programs and will help spread the word to potentially millions of people around the world. The importance of this is immense because now we have permanent "like kind" funds for an internet marketing budget, which is our greatest marketing and awareness resource.<br /><br />The impact this grant will have on our work is substantial and the fact that we received this support and recognition from one of the largest, most well known and influential companies in the world reenforces the value of our work and programs here in Nicaragua. It is our hope that other companies will recognize the importance of what we do and will follow suit. So, if you are a company, business, corporation or group trying to locate a reputable foundation to support take note - Google has found unsurpassed success in making wise decisions - and they have chosen Proyecto Laguna as a foundation to support, this says great things about the value and integrity of our programs.<br /><br />Thank you for your continued support and thank you Google! If you have any questions about Proyecto Laguna or would like to know how you can help please contact us.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6372210078263182572.post-59444210652390892442008-08-31T19:28:00.003-06:002008-08-31T19:36:39.113-06:00Local Seamstresses Employed by Proyecto Laguna<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1UtFC9ktVqo9WdaiAE3UEwb4vDdk8xNcmAWQTdWaeatJhprjQZm7i6oaDGyFG_KM1wQliitvASwGW-HMdmeX1r7vgdfVmROu6ADyJcD4_iZzXR_e7wdLrJnZRb2m9Jrsl1dxCfOKwnB9J/s1600-h/Chip+entero3+199.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1UtFC9ktVqo9WdaiAE3UEwb4vDdk8xNcmAWQTdWaeatJhprjQZm7i6oaDGyFG_KM1wQliitvASwGW-HMdmeX1r7vgdfVmROu6ADyJcD4_iZzXR_e7wdLrJnZRb2m9Jrsl1dxCfOKwnB9J/s200/Chip+entero3+199.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5240859266327025906" border="0" /></a>Proyecto Laguna recently met with local tailors and seamstresses to get started on making 850 backpacks for the start of the new school year in January.<span style=""> </span>We work with local skilled workers in order to provide employment within the community of Diriá instead of spend our money on products shipped in from other countries.<span style=""> </span>With this model we are able to empower locals, provide employment, and the money we are spending stays within the community of Diriá.<span style=""> </span> <p class="MsoNormal">Attached is a photo of our parent’s group and the 10 seamstresses and tailors who will be making our backpacks this year.<span style=""> </span>They are excited for this opportunity and we have hopes that we may be able to market their skills and have them make backpacks for other organizations in <st1:country-region st="on"><st1:place st="on">Nicaragua</st1:place></st1:country-region> too.</p>Jen Schwinnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17463953203867782430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6372210078263182572.post-9561739786984576062008-08-31T08:54:00.002-06:002008-08-31T19:28:27.306-06:00Preschool Building at Anne Frank Inaugurated<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhogPc5rN-edX2pZcIT24Ex0oimxxwT0P1sKbM1_1r6r4xQ2RHIo9Pi7WQ1VyiGVWb5s0acxiUHIT-6lF4iJ6krKF2A7o_BbnZGKrw5eED_zMCzMHyliMtvLBi7AlYklmifP-rmM09i9lxr/s1600-h/Fruit.bmp.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhogPc5rN-edX2pZcIT24Ex0oimxxwT0P1sKbM1_1r6r4xQ2RHIo9Pi7WQ1VyiGVWb5s0acxiUHIT-6lF4iJ6krKF2A7o_BbnZGKrw5eED_zMCzMHyliMtvLBi7AlYklmifP-rmM09i9lxr/s200/Fruit.bmp.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5240858661190093282" border="0" /></a>We have finished the remodel of the preschool building at the <st1:place st="on"><st1:placename st="on">Anne</st1:placename> <st1:placename st="on">Frank</st1:placename> <st1:placename st="on">School</st1:placename></st1:place>.<span style=""> </span>We were able to replace the rotting roof beams with longer lasting metal beams, replace the tin roof, amplify the windows, replace the doors, and build an attached office for the school directors with a storage area in the back. A group of students from the <st1:place st="on"><st1:placetype st="on">University</st1:placetype> of <st1:placename st="on">Washington</st1:placename></st1:place> visited last month and painted the newly remodeled building and also painted murals all over the school. <p class="MsoNormal">Last week the school had an inauguration party for the new school building.<span style=""> </span>The children performed traditional dances and had a piñata.<span style=""> </span>The parents of the kindergarteners presented Tracy Finch, founder of Proyecto Laguna, and Jennifer Schwinn, Community Development Director, with baskets of fruit to show their appreciation.</p>Jen Schwinnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17463953203867782430noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6372210078263182572.post-86390623062258715772008-08-31T08:48:00.001-06:002008-08-31T08:54:38.499-06:00New Water Tanks Installed to Improve Access to Potable Water<p class="MsoNormal">Thanks to a donation from Carol Caldwell we were able to install two new water tanks at the <st1:place st="on"><st1:placename st="on">Anne</st1:PlaceName> <st1:placename st="on">Frank</st1:PlaceName> <st1:placename st="on">School</st1:PlaceName></st1:place>.<span style=""> </span>This school currently has to buy water that is transported from 3 kilometers away by ox-cart.<span style=""> </span>The old tank was broken and had several leaks.<span style=""> </span>Access to potable water is integral to health and now the students of this school have improved access to this resource.<br /></p>Jen Schwinnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17463953203867782430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6372210078263182572.post-62733226726286414852008-08-31T08:43:00.002-06:002008-08-31T19:37:05.663-06:00Rain Gutters and Water Tanks Installed<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbszSA4V7qaxxdXp7PuzQatVxsh2wIHPN_rQ4GijBjkKU1mLAjNXbsZf-weiET9dGumJ4sGXY-CLmvEDN0JAiLyulJblDfSyGcLSt6d6HxaOM5UqTF_8iX95IRHRQqpSzPhVtP6CdaGavv/s1600-h/Chip+entero3+029.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbszSA4V7qaxxdXp7PuzQatVxsh2wIHPN_rQ4GijBjkKU1mLAjNXbsZf-weiET9dGumJ4sGXY-CLmvEDN0JAiLyulJblDfSyGcLSt6d6HxaOM5UqTF_8iX95IRHRQqpSzPhVtP6CdaGavv/s200/Chip+entero3+029.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5240693770446389714" border="0" /></a>For the past year we have been working with the Living Earth Institute and Pangea to install rain gutters and water tanks at the <st1:place st="on"><st1:placename st="on">Ruiz</st1:placename> <st1:placename st="on">Castillo</st1:placename> <st1:placetype st="on">School</st1:placetype></st1:place>.<span style=""> </span>Construction is now done and the children of this school will no longer have to wade through standing water in the rainy season and they have a water storage tank that will provide potable water even when the municipal source is unavailable.<span style=""> </span>This improvement of the school environment makes the school a safer and healthier place for the children to study.Jen Schwinnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17463953203867782430noreply@blogger.com0