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Dear Friend,
Happy Holidays, Feliz Navidad y Un Prospero 2011! In 2011 Amigos de Patzún (ADP) will celebrate its tenth anniversary of sending young Guatemalans to middle and high school who would not otherwise have gone.
ADP supports students like Edwin Miculax. After six years with ADP, Edwin Rolando Miculax M. will graduate from high school this month with a para-professional degree in business administration. Edwin is sincerely appreciative of his education, and describes his six years with the scholarship program as “happy and intellectual.” However, as for all of the scholars from the ADP’s rural areas, it hasn’t always been easy for him. He walked an hour and half from his small village, La Pila, to a larger village, El Sitio, where he would take a small bus about an hour to school. He’s struggled with his accounting class, but has shown marked improvements every year. He has also had added social challenges. His friends in his village would go to school together, and then enjoy their free time together. Edwin was often left out of these activities because he was
traveling much further to his school. But all of his hard work and sacrifice will pay off when his is handed his diploma from the highest ranked school in the region. He has persevered, and we are all proud of his accomplishments.
Edwin has two plans for what he would like to do after graduation. These plans were inspired by the career counseling of Director of Amigos de Patzún, Anacleto Catu. Edwin's plan "A" is to apply for jobs in Chimaltenango, the largest city closest to La Pila. He will continue to sell bags on the weekends in the market to provide some marginal income. His plan "B" involves starting his own business selling these bags (rather than buying them from someone else, then selling them). Edwin explained that without his education he would still be working in the farm. Edwin is most appreciative to have more opportunities for his future now that he has an education.
Since 2001, Amigos de Patzún has supported over 45 scholars in the rural areas of Patzún. They come to school with more challenges than most of their classmates, but consistently rise to the head of the class. Our students have become teachers, accountants and entrepreneurs.
2010 was a great year for Amigos de Patzún. We collaborated in the creation of a Teacher Resource Center in Patzún, the first of its kind in Guatemala. We also went live on Facebook where we will keep you our “fans” updated on Education in Guatemala, Patzún, and Amigos de Patzún scholars and activities.
Thank you for bringing opportunity to disadvantaged families, and for believing in the power of education to transform communities. We hope we can count on your support through 2011 and beyond.
Give the Gift of Scholarship
Donations to Amigos de Patzún make a great holiday gift! You can donate in the name of your loved one online or by mail. Just click here to donate or for more information. Remember, all donations are tax deductible.
Please also 'Like' us on Facebook where we will provide periodic updates on the progress of our scholars - http://www.facebook.com/amigosdepatzun
Saludos,
Karen, Paul, Jessica, Joel, Ben, Barbara and Sue
The Amigos de Patzún Board
Visit Us Online: www.amigosdepatzun.org
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