Tuesday, January 29, 2019

2019: Day 1 - Common Hope


Today, half of our group worked on the construction of the house we are building while here. This will be a two-room home for a family of seven. These are portable homes that can be moved if needed so they are built in panels on a concrete slab. We had the chance to work with power tools and, for many of us, we were able to learn new carpentry skills! What a fun experience this was.

We also had a chance to tour Common Hope, the sponsoring organization we are staying with, and learn about all the wonderful programs they are doing to help with education, healthcare, housing and so many of the many things that impact quality of life in Guatemala. This is great organization that helps break the cycle of poverty and provide families with the tools they need.

Finally, we went on ‘social visits’ with the social workers from Common Hope. This was a chance to meet with the families that are part of Common Hope and see their homes. The social workers ask about the health of the family, educational needs, assess housing and identify needed resources for the family when possible. It was so amazing to hear that the high school graduation rates are over three times the national average for the students who work with Common Hope.

It was a good day of work and bonding with these 24 Allina Health employees.  

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