A few days ago, I promised to share with you a letter from one of our board members. Dr. Charles Maahs traveled to Colombia with me on our recent trip and had the following observations which might be of interest, as they give a nice glimpse into some of what we saw on a more “granular” level.

“After taking some time to reflect on our Board trip to Colombia, one of the best ever (although every trip has been 'best ever'), I thought I might share a few of my reflections with you.

In Barranquilla, the opportunity to meet with both the Youth Corps and the Health Corps was very inspiring. As I mentioned to you, we were able to see the results of some solid years of sponsorship, and sponsored youth who had "grown up" in the program. Their ability to share in such an articulate way in the company of visitors from the north was impressive. And, of course, the 'Joan Horan Band' was one of the highlights of our time at the Nicole Lyn Anderson Service Center. (All of the Service Centers are a great addition to our work).

The home visits we made in both Barranquilla and Cartagena are always a sobering time where one comes face to face with the reality of the profound poverty that continues to exist in segments of their communities, and a good reminder of why the mission and vision of CI's sponsoring of children is so consequential and needed. Visiting and moving about in the communities where CI has Service Centers was a confirmation and affirmation of how much the CI staff is respected and trusted both in Barranquilla and Cartagena. As I believe you mentioned, Hermelinda and Nidia [agency directors in Barranquilla and Cartagena] have different leadership styles, but both are extremely effective with good supporting staffs.

In Cartagena, again having a chance to meet with sponsored youth was a highlight. Arranging the youth in small groups gave fellow board member Larry Lee and me the opportunity to ask specific questions and the youth reciprocated by asking some of their own. From the noise level of the room it was obvious that all of the small groups with various board members were having simply a good time and exchange of ideas.

Being with the Sports League and watching the fun the youth were having was a great testament to the importance of that particular program. It was also fun for the board to exchange greetings and multiple picture taking with the youth. Omar, the Game On! sports program coordinator, is doing a great job.

Visiting the houses where nutritional meals were being served for those at risk of malnutrition as well as those who were already malnourished was valuable to observe as an essential offering for the sponsored children. I thought the Service Center at Santa Rosa with its space and openness was a good setting. And as usual, conversations with the volunteer mothers, doctors and dentists was an inspiring and educational time for us.

Thanks again for the opportunity to make and be a part of a 'best ever' trip."