Thursday, May 13, 2010

UPDATE: Guatemala Trip Progress

Sunday, May 10 We had our first meeting for Guatemala. I had the opportunity to meet all of my group members and get to know a little about them. There are 9 of us going! These individuals are amazing. I am so excited to get the opportunity to not only be apart of this experience but also build long-lasting relationships with these people. What we will be doing in Guatemala is a building project in the city of Uchuch and also, organizing and facilitating Vacation Bible School every day for the children.As time goes on, we will be getting more information on the cities we will be visitng and other projects we will be working on. NOW on to another topic, FUNDRAISING!! To all that are wondering my progress on fundraising. Well, my tri-tip dinner is set to be held Sunday, May 23rd. My mom is doing a fantastic job! She has gotten 75 people to buy plates already! ($10ea.)That day I am going home to show my appreciation and be with those that have supported. I just want to take this moment to say THANK YOU! As for my support letters, I sent out around 40 and have not gotten as many resonses as I hoped for. I am praying that GOd touches the heart of people to feel led to contribute. My Uncle Frank has helped me tremendously. He lives in Fresno and has spread the word about my trip and what I am trying to do. He has been a huge blessing thoruhgout this whole process. I thank all that have supported me so far in Fresno, you are forever thanked! I still have a ways to go and am continuing to walk by faith. Today, I will be sending out about 20 more support letters to people that I believe would potentially be willing to donate. Every week, I will be updating my progress. Everyone will be informed on how I am doing.
" God called and we responded until physical and spiritual hungers ended worldwide"

Thursday, April 29, 2010

Now is the Time to Reach Out






I have started this blog to show additional information on this mission trip, status on my funding process, and give you the chance to get to know me briefly as well. This blog is made to personalize you with my proposal and also to connect you with the purpose of this trip to Guatemala.

My decision for attending this mission trip was entirely on God's watch. Since I was 13yrs old, I have been attending church conferences and each one has given the opportunity to attend mission trips with their church groups. Now those will ask.... "Well then why havn't you gone on one yet?" ok ok. well there are two reasons why. (1) AGE- I was never old enough and (2) FINANCES- it was a reasonable exuse. Now, 7yrs later I refuse to let finances come in between myself, my passion, and God's plan for me to reach His people.

Today is 4/29/10. This mission trip is scheduled July 10- July18 but all funds needed to be gathered by June 1st. This means I have 1 month to gather all my funds. At first glance of this time spand, my first response was unrealistic. One month-30 days- to raise almost $2,000 NO way NO how. But how quickly I can forget what kind of God I serve. He is all powerful and nothing is impossible with him. Now this leads me to funding. I have sent out support letters in hopes of responses and have organzied a trip-tip fundraiser as well. (props to the momma for assisting) Now as far as the car washes go, if California would live up to its sunshine it brings we can make some moves! All in all, I know God will provide and put it in people's hearts to feel led to contribute.

I believe that good things happen for those who put their trust in the Lord; furthermore, I know that there is a reason and purpose for me to attend this trip. Poverty in Guatemala is widespread and the poor rural people account for 71% of the country's population. This country experiences high rates in illiteracy, infant mortality and infant malnourishment. In the poor communities, women are among the most vulnerable groups along with children and young people. The causes of poverty primarily relate to lack of resources such as land and water. Two main areas that keep Guatemala at this level of growth is illiteracy and lack of education which results in scarcity of employment. These facts are what draw me to volunteering and putting in time to serve those that truthfully need the assistance. 

Follow me on this journey! I will keep you updated on my status and process of making this happen. NOw, lets make it happen! :)