The three Mariposa projects at the Love in Action Children’s Shelter are bringing much needed identity and human contact to children who live without a family and often see the outside world as uncaring.
“The small size of the classes allow those in charge to work at a personal level with the kids,” says project leader Bernadine Janzen. “We’re able to build trust first, and then skills that many of these kids can use later in life.”
The Seed Program promotes gardening and working outdoors, but also provides one-on-one contact with the kids to tutor them in Spanish and introduce English words into their vocabularies.
The Pet Parenting Program classes help students understand the importance of empathy and compassion, both for pets and other people. The program uses an Ajijic Rotary Dog Assisted Therapy pet.
The Textile Program has two levels of classes and is moving along well with materials donated by the community. The program teaches kids to sew and organize time and materials for projects.Volunteers are still needed for all of these programs.
The Seed Program needs people willing to assist or to build their own one-on-one program. The Pet Parenting Program is looking for members of the community who enjoy working with kids and animals. The Textile Program is looking for those who enjoy working with special needs individuals aged from six to 20 years old.
The program also needs materials for sewing and crafts. The donations can be dropped off at the center, located at Pedro Moreno 76 in Chapala. Mark them for the Mariposa Project director or contact Janzen at (387) 761-0360 for pick-up.
New ideas in the works include a medical management plan program and an artistry as vocation program. Both Mexican medical licensed individuals and foreign medical individuals will be needed, as well as artists of all types.
Says Janzen: “Volunteering to work with children takes energy and patience but the rewards when you really connect are exciting and fulfilling.”