FEATURE STORY: Five Organizations Empowering Community Members in Tola

Los Pipitos, using funds from their Circle of Giving grant, has started training disabled youth to make jewelry and piñatas for sale. This gives the youth some measure of independence, purpose, and self-esteem. An early challenge was to convince the families that their children could be productive members of society. Having overcome this challenge, the youth are now helping their mothers start businesses, as well as increasing family incomes. This move toward fostering economic independence is a major achievement for Los Pipitos, which formerly has concentrated on raising awareness of the needs of the disabled. As Jacqueline Perez, the director, says: “Now we are not always asking for donations and support. They are able to provide for themselves.” Read about additional projects here >>

PLUS:
- ¿Qué pasó Tola?: Site Team Update