TIME TO GIVE BACK

Making a difference in the lives of the Nicaraguans that helped us create Orquidea del Sur is very important. Our relationship with the local community goes beyond simply creating employment opportunities. We will involve ourselves where needed and help through existing channels and create new projects for us and others to make a difference.

There are several small schools in the immediate area that we are helping achieve higher educational standards and improve their infrastructure. We have been very impressed with the children's dedication, as some walk significant distances to attend each day. Teaching is difficult for the teachers who are very motivated, despite the low pay. There are almost no books, no games and they are all very thankful for the much needed school supplies like books, pencils and other learning materials.

We employ several students to help offset their bus fares to San Juan each day. All our art work, inside and out, is done by Nicaraguans and we are currently assisting some local crafts people to set up their own studio.

We also expect to help a small library that has been built, by a fellow Canadian, in Tortuga, a small village South of Orquidea. The building is ready, the librarian is there, but the shelves are bare.

If you would like to help, please bring learning materials and books (preferably in Spanish) and we will be happy to take you to the facilities so you can make the donation personally; or

let us know how you might want to assist by emailing us at

info@orquideadelsur.com