The start of a new year is the perfect time to be thankful for what we have and offer a helping hand to those who need it most. I had the opportunity to sit down with Onan Herrera, Founder of Proyect-O 888, and learn about how his non-profit is changing the lives of children in Nicaragua.
Proyect-O 888 ( #proyecto888 ) promises to educ8, motiv8 and elev8 children in Nicaragua who have scarce resources and are living in low economic conditions yet manage to exhibit high academic achievement. Quality of life and education are among our top priorities: by providing academic supplies, medical support and in the future we hope to be able to fulfilling nutritional needs and provide an environment where they get the opportunity to reach their full potential.
“The need is great in Nicaragua and our funds are limited. Therefore, it is important that our efforts be focused. With this in mind, it was decided to focus on excellent students that live in extreme poverty”, adds Onan. Proyect-O is currently working with 30 kids and they are looking to impact more this year. Proyect-O will strive to provide the children with not only academic support but also medical, nutritional, and any other needs that arise.
I asked Onan to tell me about his most recent trip to Nicaragua and with a big smile he says, “On my recent trip, it was time to celebrate the end of the year with our Christmas party. The Proyect-O kids are rewarded for keeping up their grades throughout the year. The students and their parents were invited to lunch and a little entertainment. At this event, each child was presented with a toy along with a complete outfit provided by sponsors here in Miami.”
After hearing all the details about his visits, it is clear that the impact he is having on these children and their lives is huge. Every small project makes a difference in their lives and shows them that hard work and dedication can help them be successful. Onan is very humble about his beginnings and thankful for the opportunities he has had. When I asked about his motivation behind his organization, he was very fast to answer and his message was sincere. “My mom and I always talked about doing something to help. Since I had the opportunity to come here and make a better life for myself, I wanted to give them the same hope and chance to better themselves. Who knows? I could have been one of them if I stayed in Nicaragua.”
Proyect-O continues to inspire local volunteers to get involved and help change lives. They are currently planning fundraising events in Miami to continue to raise funds to better their programs and overall reach.
For more information or to get involved, visit www.facebook.com/proyecto888 or follow them on Twitter @proyecto888, Instagram @proyecto888
