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School House for XejuyubThe hamlet of Xejuyub, located in central Guatemala understands that education is a key to reducing poverty and increasing opportunity.
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In the spring of 2008, a team of UbF volunteers visited Xejuyub to celebrate the completion of this beautifully designed new school. The interior is divided by two large metal doors, creating two separate classrooms. When the doors are open the two classrooms are transformed into one large room for use for assemblies and/or community events. We were pleased to see that the community had the foresight to modernize their new school by adding flush toilets and a septic system, rare amenities in this region. They also planted a lovely herb garden that the children tend at recess.
The community of Xejuyub greeted the team with a big "welcome" banner and firecrackers. The colorful cement block school house was adorned with crepe paper and balloons. A United by Friendship plaque rests over the entryway.
Along the front outside wall are commemorative tiles of those individuals that contributed $500 or more toward this project. During the official inauguration ceremony the team sat at the new student desks provided by several Rotary clubs.
The floors were strewn with fragrant pine needles. The program opened with the students marching in behind the Guatemalan flag. This was followed by speeches and folkloric dances along with the presentation of gifts of appreciation from the community. Afterward, the parents served everyone a special meal of turkey soup.
Deborah Simon, President of UbF, addressed the community and explained that it was the donations of many people that made it possible for UbF to build the school.
She encouraged the people to view the tiles that adorn the front wall of the school as a daily reminder that "they are not alone". She reminded them that many people in the United States value the education of and care about their precious Guatemalan children.
The people were moved by her words, and repeated softly "We are not alone." In reply, the community of Xejuyub conveys their profound gratitude to you and says "Mil Gracias." — A Thousand Thanks.
