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Published: January 21st 2014
Well we are at it again! Thanks to Brian, one of my classmates in my cohort at school, who is living in Mérida, Mexico, we are hear working with 21 girls for 9 days. This trip however has been much different than the ones in the past for a couple reasons.
Firstly, for those of you who don't know, I started a Masters degree in leadership a year ago at
RRU . It has supported my understanding of what we need to do with Passion Foundation to take our Global Sorority initiative to the next level and create sustainable community growth and opportunities for girls everywhere. Secondly, we have 3 AMAZING local people who are really putting in the time and energy to ensure when we leave Merida, that support for the girls will continue in a big way. This is what community and partnerships are really about! One thing that Tia and I have learnt so far is that every girl who has had significant success in life has had one person who has loved, mentored, supported and modelled possibilities for her. These girls will for sure have 3 amazing cheerleaders in their corners. Already in 3 days, we've
Meet Deyanira
Our amazing host and trainer in actionestablished more connections and opportunities than ever before. We have a BIG surprise for the girls on Saturday. Stay tuned for the pictures!
A little background Nueva Vida is a program that was started by two nuns over 15 years ago. Supported by Catholics, the program originally housed young girls who's family needed extra support. Thanks to Patricia Pipkin, the new Director here, the program has turned into a beautiful assortment of well rounded programs for girls including a food program, tutoring, cooking classes and educational development opportunities. That's where we fit in.
Thanks to Deyanira, Brian, and Patricia we can provide the leadership training for girls as well as me training Deyanira and Patricia as Elements of SUCCESS trainers, which has never been done before. They will support the girls in creating a sustainable community project/ program that will demonstrate their leadership, strength, and little inner geniuses out into the world! We will be keeping track and posting their progress. We even have a local business who is going to provide some support the girls moving forward! Mérida, is a pretty safe place, unlike other parts of Mexico. It's calm, friendly, and having been the
first time in México (yes with all my world traveling I've never set foot in this part of the world) I can say I'm quite enjoying it, especially the food!
Recently someone questioned my "pure" motivations for this work with girls (I mean really I travel all over the world and get to take part in, learn and witness cultures that most people wouldn't dare to- but secretly dream of). At first I was a little irritated with their inquisition, however with some reflection, I'm glad they did. It reminded me that this work, as much as it is selfless, it's also selfish. The experiences Tia and I have, as well as our growing awesome team of volunteers, creates a community for us to share what we know we are good at. Our work is making a significant difference in the world and as we move forward this becomes more and more evident, this is a HUGE affirmation to us. (Tia I'll speak for you too here😊 What we've learnt from you and others is that life is a privilege and to contribute back what we've learnt is as important as enjoying a little on the side. We hope
Paola
Day One volunteer to make people feel like they know where things are around the the compound. you are all doing the same! - The energy we give, is the energy we receive.
Thanks for being a part of our world! We are super excited to share so much more going forward.
With love from Mérida,
Loretta (and Tia)
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Jeannie McCracken
non-member comment
Good job ?
That's awesome Loretta! Have fun ?