Glenis and part of her family with fresh coffee

Glenis

Glenis was our first recipient to finish the application process.  While each of the scholarship applicants shows academic excellence and community involvement, we have been especially impressed with Glenis’ family.  A number of anecdotes show the drive and unity that gives this family its strength:

• Neither of Glenis’ parents had the opportunity to learn to read in school but both have since taught themselves by reading the Bible- the only book they had.
• Glenis’ parents understand the importance of land ownership to long-term financial security in Honduras.  They are hopeful that one day they will make a better living farming a small plot of land they recently purchased than continuing to work for local large landowners.  Though their small earnings go entirely to paying down their 20% interest loan, they have invested in a different kind of future for themselves.  In the picture you can see a part of their coffee harvest drying in the sun in front of their house.
• Her parents are reliable and respected community members responsible.  They are always among the first to volunteer to help out with church and community projects.  This enthusiasm and desire to be involved carries over to their children.  Last year, Glenis and two of her siblings were regularly involved in after-school groups.  In a place with little opportunity for structured extracurricular activity, where children work to contribute to family wellbeing, the time to be involved in such activities is a great gift that many children don’t get to enjoy.
• Finally, this family is among the first in La Pista to send a child to High School.  Though he had to work a year to be able to pay registration fees, Glenis' older brother went to school last year, and this year Glenis has someone else to look out for her at school.

Glenis and part of her family in front of the church

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