Journal of Sacred Work

"We stand at a critical moment in Earth's history, a time when humanity must choose its future. As the world becomes increasingly interdependent and fragile, the future at once holds great peril and great promise. To move forward we must recognize that in the midst of a magnificent diversity of cultures and life forms we are one human family and one Earth community with a common destiny. We must join together to bring forth a sustainable global society founded on respect for nature, universal human rights, economic justice, and a culture of peace. Towards this end, it is imperative that we, the peoples of Earth, declare our responsibility to one another, to the greater community of life, and to future generations." ~The Earth Charter, Preamble

Concern America is an international development and refugee aid organization that has worked in fifteen countries on three continents, making a difference in the lives of more than two million people in thousands of communities in "developing" countries since its establishment in 1972 (www.concernamerica.org).

What distinguishes the work of Concern America is its belief and understanding that the transformation of impoverished communities comes from engaging local members in the solutions to their problems.

The Concern America field volunteer doctors and engineers, for example, don't staff health clinics or build water systems but, instead, they train the community members themselves to become the health care providers and water system builders, creating local solutions and expertise that transforms entire communities and helps people lift themselves out of poverty.

During a recent trip to Guatemala with my colleagues, I experienced first hand the good works of Concern America volunteers. I had the great privilege of meeting many Guatemalan people who have become highly skilled Health Promoters who can now provide healthcare to their friends and neighbors in their local villages.

How inspiring to see Concern America collaborating with community members to create a viable healthcare system where there was none. In addition, Concern America listens to the needs of the people and they respond with the utmost compassion and respect for the dignity of the person. They are also addressing the complex issues of water contamination and sanitation needs. Their approach helping others through empowerment is awe-inspiring. It is a highly successful model that is going to be replicated in other countries around the world. The Health Promoters accomplish the impossible with very little resources and they are saving lives and improving the quality of life for the children and family members.  It is fantastic to see change-taking place at the grass roots level among the people who really care about one another.

http://www.youtube.com/e/ygnke0tL1fQ
 

“Great opportunities to help others seldom come, but small ones surround us every day. ~Sally Koch

I will be participating in Concern America's 14th Annual Walk Out of Poverty event. This is a five-mile walk-a-thon, taking place on Saturday, April 16, 2011. Funds raised will support Concern America's health, education, and clean water projects in Latin America and Africa. I have set a personal goal of raising $500.00.  I invite you to consider making a small donation of $5.00-$10.00, or better yet, come join me!

I guarantee you will experience the satisfaction of knowing that your hard earned money will be well spent.  Please, go to http://www.concernamerica.org/walkoutofpoverty, click on the "Walk Out of Poverty Online Sponsorship" link, then click "View Teams" under the Walk Out of Poverty event posting, and click on my team name: "Global Heart"

Thank you! ♥

~liz Sorensen Wessel