Pura Vida Field Update
Computer Center Growth
San Jose, Costa Rica
We were able to obtain twenty more computers, thanks to generous support. In Linda Vista we added five computers for a grand total of ten. This allowed us to increase the number of students we serve from 80 up to 160. Now students that could not attend are in classes every week. In Alajuelita, we went from eight computers to sixteen, and in La Tabla we are moving from five to twelve computers. We are reaching a total population of 460 students in the four communities we serve. We are very excited for this growth and for the opportunities it provides these students.
Shaping Character
San Jose, Costa Rica, by Sier Chacon
Jose Maria, nicknamed "Chema" is a 17 year old boy from Concepcion Arriba de Alajuelita, who came last year to our Computer Center, invited by a friend. With a good sense of humor, but lacking discipline, violent at times and with no role model to follow, Chema was the typical teen of Concepcion. Little by little and with the guidance of Funda Vida leaders, Chema started to change.
Chema lives with his mom in a small place he calls home. When his step-father visits his mom during the weekends, he needs to sleep on an old couch by the kitchen. We in Funda Vida helped him find a job with a car wash company that does its operations in the malls' parking lots. Jose took the opportunity very seriously, washing up to fifteen cars a day. His efforts and discipline called the attention of the owners who quickly promoted him to captain and now to a supervisor position.
He visited us the other day showing proudly his shirt, as a reward for his efforts. Chema commented to Seir, "I want other kids from Funda Vida to have the opportunity that I had, so now that I am a Supervisor I want the teens that work for me to come from Funda Vida." This is why we at Funda Vida do what we do, to shape characters, mold lives, and ultimate change communities. Thanks, because with your support we can continue helping kids like Chema.