We are delighted to share with you our new scholarship information for the coming 2017-2018 school year. We will be supporting 21 girls and women this year who come from 8 different communities in Chiapas. Three are at university level, nine are at the preparatory level (ages 15- 18), seven are at secondary (ages 12-15) and two are taking computer classes. Of that number, three are new to us.
The most impressive thing to me is the number of girls and women who continue their scholarships for years, climbing steadily up the education ladder. In May, Martha D. graduated from her nursing program at the age of 23. She had been on scholarship with us since she was 12. Antonia S. completed 8 years on scholarship in May, first finishing secondary school and then completing classes in computers and English. We have always been convinced that education opens doors and gives women choices that they didn’t have before. And as time passes, we see how this is not just theoretical, but practical and real. As an example, Martha (mentioned above) is giving workshops about health-related issues in various communities and in the primary school in her own village.
Linda and I will travel to Chiapas at the end of the month. We’ll be presenting the scholarships to the new recipients, attending workshops with the women of the cooperative, visiting communities and children’s programs, and having meetings with our coordinator there. This is always a highlight of my year.
The Mujeres’ fundraiser garage sale was July 15. We took in $400. Thanks to those of you who contributed items, and also to board member Cathy and volunteer Rose who kept me company during the sale hours.
Again, thanks to all of you for your support.
Judith