“A lifelong impact” film launches, celebrates alumni of Escuela Integrada
A lifelong impact
What happens to a student after they graduate from Escuela Integrada? With the school now in its 21st year, we are seeing the cyclical change that can occur in families simply by completing an education in Guatemala.
As an organization we are working to improve our data-tracking capabilities so that we can provide quantifiable outcomes of an Escuela Integrada education. Currently, one of our former students is collecting information about each of our alumni. She is asking questions about employment status, family economic situation, hardships, level of education obtained after Escuela Integrada and much more.
Much of this data is encouraging. We are observing metrics that show us that students are in a different and improved economic situation than their parents. Many times the alumni of Escuela Integrada are the cause of a family breaking the cycle of poverty simply by completing a higher level of education than the previous generation.
This year, for the second year in a row, 18 students out of a class of 18 graduated from Escuela Integrada. They are one step closer to breaking the cycle of poverty.
Our goal in providing education and nutrition support is for students to, one day, leave us and go be the changemakers in their own communities. This is a lifelong impact.
We invite you to watch the new GRACES feature film, “A Lifelong Impact,” to hear from former Escuela Integrada students about what they are up to now.
“Now I see things as everyone else sees them”
Over the past year, GRACES Sponsorship Coordinator Catherine Escobar has been closely following the story of a student, Nattaly, an 8-year old student at Escuela Integrada. Nattaly was diagnosed with strabismus, a misalignment in her eyes that caused blurry vision.
In “Nattaly’s Miracle – Angel Eyes”, Catherine shares an uplifting and compelling story that highlights the significance of genuine connections through the support of Nattaly’s sponsors. The story shows that transforming one’s life doesn’t change the whole world, but it can change their world. Learn more about Nattaly’s story in a short documentary about her eye surgery in Guatemala.
10th annual Supporters Gathering concludes after week of meetings, celebrations
GRACES’ annual Supporters Gathering wrapped up on November 8 after a week of productive meetings, updates, home visits and graduations. Participants traveled from as far east as Winchester, Virginia; and as far west as Deer Park, Washington, to attend.
“Personally this is a highlight of my year,” said Hannah Nadeau Girón, Executive Director of GRACES. “I love that our supporters, partners and board members can come together from all around the U.S., from various churches, with one common goal to serve the organization.”
The week included updates from local leadership at Escuela Integrada, Ahava Ministries and Academy of Future Leaders, along with presentations from the GRACES staff on finances, marketing and communications, sponsorships and vision trips. GRACES staff also shared future plans, challenges and opportunities for the organization.
“It’s a real gift to be able to spend time with other Graces’ supporters—some of whom have been instrumental in the organization for many years,” said Father Joshua Mayer, a priest of the Diocese of Gallup and GRACES Board Member. “I learn so much every time and always make new friends. And then, to be able to visit with our families in Guatemala, see the work our local partners are doing, and participate in Escuela Integrada’s annual promotions and graduations… Well, that’s what it’s all about.”
During the week, families, students and supporters gathered for Family Night, and shared meals and conversations at various dining establishments in Antigua. The week concluded with the celebration of 9th grade graduation at Hotel Villa Colonial with students and their parents.
“This is the second year in a row that all of the students were able to graduate,” said Nadeau Girón. “I am so proud of them and their families and all the hard work that they have put into their education.”
To see pictures from the events, visit us on Facebook or Instagram.