Gilmore Park Community League

Over a year ago neighbour Christie and I watched an Emmanuel Foundation playground build video, it brought us to tears and was the motivation we needed to find a good home for our neighbourhood play equipment.  Throughout the process we were amazed how all the pieces came together.  Now that the cement is set, and all the bolts have been tightened we give thanks to everyone who played a role in building not just a playground but a community.  We must not forget to count our blessings and then share them.  Here is a longer look at our wonderful experience in the community of Santa Helena in Honduras.  Tammy https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xg3rc3G9DjQ

The culmination of our efforts have finally borne their fruit. Only four days ago, I walked towards the worksite on a rutted dirt road and saw a flat piece of land, desolate and disconnected from the community. Now, that land has turned into a focal point for all St. Heleneans. The playground's bright colors add vibrancy to the area, symbolic of the transformation that has occurred there. Yesterday we had the opening ceremonies for the playground. Early in the morning delegates arrived. This completed an impressively sized panel of roughly 12 individuals who were responsible for the organization of the build, allowing the ceremonies to begin. Altogether it makes one realize the heumungis (Maggie's spelling for "humongous") effort required in order to coordinate the logistical side of playground-building adventures. Their efforts are deeply appreciated. The ceremonies lasted roughly an hour and you could feel the anxiousness of the school children to play in the pla

I will be honest Day 1 of the GPCL Playground Rebuild had bumpy start, well mainly just a bumpy boat ride!  It was also an adjustment to vastly different living conditions and weather, but our build crew of GPCL and Rotary members were welcomed by friendly hosts.  After a day of working in extreme heat we were covered in blisters and clay and a dip in the ocean at the end of the day felt great.  We made good progress and the best part of Day 1 for me was interacting with the local children as they helped build, played games with us and did crafts.  This is no vacation, conditions are tough but spirits are high! Halfway through Day 2 I have spent the morning talking with local teachers.  The Rotary members from District 5370 are committed to forming new partnerships to improve education on the island.  This afternoon I am looking forward to playing games with the early childhood class, play truly is a universal language and everyone has the right to play! Tammy