The Good Shepherd Brigade (July 31-Aug. 7, 2011)

The Good Shepherd Brigade came to us from Cincinnati, OH. They were a group from a large and lively Catholic Church who has generously decided to help build a bilingual school in Camasca, a community between Santa Lucia and Concepcion. The main focus of their visit was establishing a relationship with the community so that needs could be properly accessed and a meaningful cultural exchange could begin. The week was packed full with  getting to know the children and schools in the area through crafts and games, getting to know the community through home visits, and getting to experience religion abroad through Catholic masses and group meetings. Time was spent in the three communities of Concepcion, Camasca, and Santa Lucia.  For many in the communities, it was the first time a brigade has sat down for the purpose of just listening to what needs to be changed and for many in the brigade, it was their first exposure to the reality and hardships of life here. Overall, it was an incredible experience for everyone involved and we are excited to be part of this upcoming project that will clearly provide more educational opportunities for those in the Intibuca region.

Students from the local school in Santa Lucia perform a folkloric dance for the brigade
Students from the local school in Santa Lucia perform a folkloric dance for the brigade

The Good Shepherd Group- a rowdy but fun bunch!
The Good Shepherd Group- a rowdy but fun bunch!

Students with the ever popular parachute at a visit to a school in Palacios
Students with the ever popular parachute at a visit to a school in Palacios

 

Some Reflections from Brigade Members

“The overall brigade experience was life changing. “

“Wonderful-time was well spent, well planned and a great exposure to all the communities.”

“This was my first time here and I am very impressed with the work that Shoulder to Shoulder is doing in these communities.”