Cadaniño Community Center: A community center that serves vulnerable children from the slums of Guatemala City. Over 100 children are enrolled in our afternoon programs where they receive educational reinforcement , learn computer skills, receive tutoring in math and language, have access to library and the internet for research and receive a foundation in God’s word.
Our Approach
Lucy Portales
Our goal is that our center and its resources serve as a benefit to the entire community. To that end we have opened up our facility to provide computer class to the parents of our students as well. Many of the mothers are in need of work, yet lack the requisite job skills, we believe that by introducing them to technology and teaching them computer skills we can better equip them to support their families. Casa De Libertad, a local church, partners with us in our outreaches to serve the families of the students that attend our classes.
Estuardo
Education is the key to unlock the golden door of freedom.
-George Washington Carver-
Intellectuals
In our computer classes students start off learning basic computer skills such as typing, MS-Office applications, internet skills and email. From there they advance to coding and programming learning to think creatively, reason systematically and work collaboratively. They receive classes in internet applications, HTML and web design through a course developed by Royale Studios. For interested students we provide training in Photoshop, graphics design and creating presentations. Students have to opportunity to learn robotic, electronics and engineering concepts through scholarships at Robotis. We place a strong emphasis on teaching students to learn for themselves via internet research and invite local businessmen to give motivational talks to the students.
Educational Reinforcement
Our educational reinforcement programs work to complement the classes students receive in school by providing tutoring in Math, Language Arts and help with their homework. Through our library of books and use of our computer classroom students can do research, complete investigations and print needed content for their school homework. When possible we also provide students with backpacks and other educational supplies to assist them in their studies.
Spiritual
Bible classes, a one hour class every afternoon that includes prayer, worship, memorizing Bible verses, crafts, activities and an action point to live out in their lives. Students participate in Vacation Bible School and Bible club activities with volunteers from our local church and volunteers from the U.S. We hold regular bible studies for the parents.
Service
All parents of children enrolled in our program have committed to volunteering at least one hour a month at our center or assisting with the community cleanup. Twice a month children and parents we will participate in a community clean working within a three block radius of our center to pick up trash and clean the neighborhood helping students learn that they come not just to receive but to give to others.
