Saturday, May 15, 2010

Permanent Site: San Ignacio, Cayo District


On Wednesday, May 12, 2010, I moved to San Ignacio to begin my permanent assignment. I will be working at Mary Open Doors that is an inovative advocacy program for victims of domestic violence. There is only one other such program in the country--this program is founded by a wonderful woman who is a survivor. Her name is Ms. Anna Silva and it is already an extraordinary experience; this photo is us at the doors of the program. It is located on the grounds of the Catholic Church and is right opposite BFLA which promotes family planning--apparently that makes for some interesting issues. Mary Open Doors works closely wtih BFLA. There are two safe houses and plans for a day care program. Its purpose is to assist victims of domestic violence with temporary shelter, education, court advocacy, reporting, and services. My job will be to assist with structuring their administrative systems, five year strategic planning, grant writing, fund raising and training. It feels like a perfect match.

San Ignacio is a bustling town on the river about 45 minutes from the capital Belmopan. I will soon be searching for a permanent home but for now I'm enjoying life with a wonderful family on the top of a very steep hill (further up is a fancy hotel where I will check out swimming in the next few days.)

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