Getting Ready

So this Saturday I am leaving for Panama and I am super excited. I've been rushing around to get packed and all my loose ends tied up. I feel like I'm trying to fit an entire summer of seeing people into 2 weeks. Needless to say, it feels a little rushed and overwhelming. I am so excited (and anxious) to be back working with Amigos De Las Americas. I absolutely love the program and it's goals. What a beautiful chance to get to experience different cultures. Hopefully I can affect some people and I have no doubt that I will be affected by the experiences and people I meet. Once again, I get a fresh and new look at our world and how I relate to it. What a seriously obvious blessing! I keep getting asked exactly what I'm doing - so here's a little clarification:


About the Program:


Amigos Mission:

Amigos de las Américas (AMIGOS) builds partnerships to empower young leaders, advance community development and strengthen multicultural understanding in the Americas.

Vision

AMIGOS operates quality, youth-led programs throughout the Americas which improve the health and well-being of millions. Supported by a vigorous network of Pan-American chapters and partner agencies and a sound financial base, youth from diverse backgrounds and from throughout the Americas challenge themselves and expand their world view by participating in self-directed, meaningful service with communities different from their own.

Core Values

AMIGOS Values:

• Leadership by youth
• Health and safety of our Volunteers and Project Staff
• Respect in all of our relationships
• High quality programs developed with and relevant to the communities we serve
• Programs that transform both youth and communities

Veraguas Specifics:

SO WHAT ARE WE TRYING TO DO? General Project Objectives:

1. increase active youth involvement in communities
• work with community youth to facilitate educational activities
• hold workshops with local youth
2. increase knowledge and awareness of cultural, environmental, and health issues
• facilitate educational activities with children and young people (ages 5-12 years) with a focus on culture, health and environmental education, social skills, group leadership, and creative expression
• work on community projects related to these themes
3. collaborate with community members on Community-Based Initiative (CBI) process

BREAK IT DOWN… the specific components of our project:

There are four main components to our project in Veraguas this year:

1. Workshop-style health and environmental education classes with kids (ages 5-12)
2. Educational seminars for teens
3. Community-Based Initiative (CBI)
4. Youth encuentro/cultural festival