When FIR members Madelyn and Phil Case go down to Honduras to check on projects, deliver backpacks or assess school supplies, it takes its toll on the body. Phil (pictured here at the San Pedro de Sula airport) basically said "I'm done. I must take a nap. Somewhere. Anywhere." since their flights were delayed. There was so much to see and do while in Honduras, finally the couple got home to Anacortes around 2:30 am. "Surprise Surprise! No one was on the roads that early." Madelyn joked.
Fidalgo Island Rotary Club is one of the founding members of the International Project Alliance (IPA). This group was formed in the spring of 2014, and comprises six clubs from Skagit and surrounding counties. They work together to fund humanitarian projects in and around the town of Copán Ruinas, Honduras. IPA's goal is to build long-term productive relationships with the Rotary club and NGOs in Copán, so that member clubs can have a positive impact on the lives of people living there. The IPA has partnered with the Copán club, which will be responsible for project implementation and oversight.
Copán Ruinas is in the western highlands of Honduras, near the Guatemalan border. Although a small rural town of only 6,000 people, it is well known for the spectacular Mayan ruins at the edge of town. Like most of Honduras, people are struggling, especially in the Chorti Mayan villages that surround Copán. The need for humanitarian assistance is very high.
This trip was focused on assessing and finalizing projects and meeting with local Rotarians on what other international projects would benefit the needs of the school children in the mountainous area. Phil and Madelyn got to meet their sponsored student Daniel, have lunch with local tribe leaders and see the vegetable gardens that one of the villages built.
Some of the programs that the IPA is doing are:
- Adopt-A-School
- Adopt-A-Dream, scholarship program
- Mobile Library
- Student Health Fund
- Water, Sanitation, School Construction, Agriculture
- Rapid Development Program - Transforming Villages
- Equipping health clinics
It's amazing what we can accomplish when hearts and minds work together. See how leaders from countries, cultures, and occupations around the world are taking action — to enhance health, empower youth, promote peace, and improve their community. Join leaders at Fidalgo Island Rotary - the FUN Club!