We are aiming to build the administration building next, which will have a multipurpose use and also serve as the clinic. We still need funding for this project. Early in the year, we received funding for a much-needed industrial washing machine from Friends, US and NPH Switzerland funded a tractor, which is being used to cut the grass around the homes to help us in the prevention of dengue fever. Our service group Mi Voz, Se Escucha (My voice is heard) has remained active in this past year with a change in leadership and many trips to nearby communities such as sharing piñatas last Christmas and other afternoons of games and activities. We continue to work hard to develop our future leaders and this group continues to be a good example of Father Wasson’s vision that his children grow up to care for their younger brothers and sisters. During the winter vacations, we organized a bible camp for three separate groups formed by the three distinct age groups of children. All of our sessions were held at a beautiful piece of property that belongs to our parish which was lent to us. The camps were an important way to keep our children’s minds active during vacation and also provided opportunities to leave the home and explore.
We have accepted nine new children into our home in 2009 bringing our total to 69. When we are completed with the construction of the two homes we will be ready to accept new children in our family. We are already interviewing future caregivers that will be able to start working as soon as we start receiving new children. This will require a few more projects to be created to get funding for new needs that will come up. Once we add to our family, we will have a need for a new mini bus. We continue to seek funding for the conversion of a pantry into a cold storage room. Currently, we are operating with two regular-sized refrigerators and a large freezer, but these are inadequate and leave most of our vegetables and fruits in room temperature shelves. As a new item for the home, in 2010 we want to jump start our agriculture by growing our own vegetables and fruits on our land. The more we grow as a family, the bigger the need to be selfsufficient. This also benefits us in the education area as our children will have a useful new skill to learn. Our plan includes assigning Erick Rodrigo to give his year of service in the area, accompanied and guided by one of our staff members.
Father William Wasson’s purpose was not only to save the lives of children but to develop them into productive citizens and good Christians, which he defined as people who care for each other and contribute to the well-being of others. The practical values he preached and practiced balanced unconditional love with work, responsibility, and sharing. The children would feel safe and protected, but they had to take part in the work of cleaning, food preparation, and caring for each other. As long as they worked at their studies, they would be supported in their schooling. Dr. Michael Maccoby
One of our proudest days in 2009 was when we celebrated our 4th anniversary in April. We first held a prayer service with just our NPH family in our dining room and invited friends from the neighboring communities to share in a party with sports tournaments, dancing and cake.
We have our first youth, Wilma, in her year of service. She is finishing up her secondary school requirements in an accelerated online high school program as she serves a caregiver to our youngest children in Casa San Jorge, where they are very happy with her work. Semillitas (Little Seeds) children’s club, just celebrated its 1st year running. Boys and girls 8 to 11 years are invited to join Semillitas because of their positive attitude, or children who need help and support in improving their behavior. They are taught basic values mentioned in the Bible or Father Wasson’s books through talks and discussions or activities such as arts and crafts. We are excited to see this group grow and develop in the coming years, providing important leadership training to even our youngest brothers and sisters. When the children are old enough, they will leave Semillitas to enter our Youth Service Group, Mi Voz Se Escucha. 32 NPH Bolivia 2009
Nuestros Pequeños Hermanos™ International