From July 6-12, thirteen friends of Mentors, from ages 13 through 92, traveled to El Salvador and Guatemala to witness microfinance firsthand. Hosted by Mentors’ partner organizations in Guatemala and El Salvador, the field trip participants learned firsthand about urban and rural micro-development by meeting the clients who are working their way out of poverty.
“On the trip, I learned that Mentors not only provides microloans but it more importantly gives the impoverished hope,” said Lloyd Newell, a field trip participant who is also the master of ceremonies at Mentors’ annual fundraising event. “Once the clients have that jumpstart from Mentors, they finally have that glimmer of hope that their lives really can improve,” he continued.
The field trip began in El Salvador where visitors met with Mentors clients including Maria, a prosperous pillowmaker, Jose, a well-off brickmaker and the Deodanes family that now makes piñatas for stores in the United States.
“The piñata family really touched me. I could see the pride in their eyes as they explained how each of them are involved in creating one piñata. The children, the workers and even the dogs are happy. Here is a family literally in the middle of the jungle and yet they are prospering and fulfilling their dreams,” said Shellie Warren, another field trip participant.
The trip continued with a visit to Mentors Guatemala where travelers met with clients including Maria, a weaver with a booming business and Maximo, a successful strawberry farmer (see both stories above).
“What really impressed me about Mentors is its focus on training and education. In addition to business training, Mentors is teaching clients how to become more healthy and sanitary. Their willingness to improve is inspirational and I am so glad I came,” concluded Robert Marx, a 92-year-old field trip participant.
Mentors next field trip is scheduled for February 19-28, 2009 to the Philippines so mark your calendars and let Mentors know as soon as possible if you can attend this unique and unforgettable experience.
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