We have two upward bound stories to share.  The first has to do with the construction.  The pictures really speak for themselves.

Classrooms are taking shape.

                                         You can start to get the idea of how the whole school will look. 

The second story is in regards to a group of high school girls that contacted LeapingStone regarding volunteer work.  They were taking part in a summer program called Upward Bound and wanted to know if we needed any help.  I find it so interesting because we had just started to gear up for our big event on October 1, 2010 –our Annual Bachelor Auction and Wine Tasting Event — so their timing couldn’t have been better. 

They are  a wonderful group of girls who were so helpful getting a mailing out and helping to make bidder paddles for the auction.  The extra special part was that, on their own, they went out to stores in the area and put out jars to collect change to  raise money for LeapingStone.  When we met for the last time this week, they presented to us with a giant check representing $100 they raised!  I was so touched by their thoughtfulness and generous spirits.

                                        So I want to say a special thank you to each of

these girls:     Maribel Juarez,  Yajaira Cruz, See Yang,  Katrina Thao, Shelby McClintock, &  Karina Ramirez.  Also an extra special thank you to their Supervisor Rosario Mariscal — she is a gem.
                                  So as you can see, we really are upward bound!  

I received a new email from Gildas this morning and could hardly wait to show everyone.  The school is starting to take shape as the walls are going up.

Paul at inspection

Paul, our Liaison Officer, went to inspect the work that had been accomplished.  They have now stared on the second stage of the school. 

It is so exciting to see the progress they have made.  Because the crops have been secured, the villagers are able to help with the building on a more consistant basis.

Gildas, states that they will finish the wall elevation around July 21.  Next they will prepare the concrete support for the cistern and purchase the wood and iron sheeting needed for the roof.

The photo at the left is the beginning of what will be the Veranda.

I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their support.  We could not have come so far without you.  Please, if you know other people who might be interested in what we are doing, don’t be shy about sharing the site/blog.  We want everyone to know what has been accomplished and where we are heading.

Cheers!

                                                       Natalie

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