Long Time, No Post!

Pizza Max

It is sad that we have abandoned this blog, but we are determined to bring it back! So much has happened since we last posted. Besides continuing to run the school and art shop, perhaps the biggest contribution we have been able to make to the community of Muñoz over these past few years is providing business consulting and small grants to small businesses in the area. 

Each year since 2016, a group of Virginia Tech students from the Pamplin School of Business have spent a week here in May working with different small businesses each year. After their time with them, they create a business plan and provide some funds to help develop their businesses.

Northeastern University volunteers have continued to come every spring break as well. They have conducted household surveys, assessing need, desire, and possibility for a micro-loan program. They have donated start up funds and now there are a few community members paying back their business loans, with others waiting to receive their loans once the first loans are paid back.

Second-hand shop

In addition, NEU volunteers helped us set up a second hand shop next to the school! Here we sell used clothing items, accessories, and electronics. We sell the items to make the business sustainable, but also give out items to our students who come to redeem points they have earned through attendance and good behavior. We hope to also start a community recycling initiative where points can be earned. However, continued receival of donations is key to keeping this going!

We promise to post more frequently. We are determined to keep you informed on our work and invite your collaboration and support. Thank you!