Transitions Guatemala
Canadian John Bell went to Guatemala as a young man with the Peace Corp. and met Alex Galvez ; paraplegic and in a wheelchair for life because as a 14 year old walking home from school he had been caught in a gang war in Guatemala City and shot. The relationship formed has spanned their adult lives and built what Transitions is today. In 2000 a member of our club , working in Guatemala on a surgical team had the privilege of meeting John and Alex and was inspired by what they were achieving. When our club learned of the dedication, commitment and amazing accomplishments of Transitions we knew we wanted to support them and have for many years.
The Focus of Transitions: Health, Rehabilitation, Education, Leadership Skills, Social Integration and Employment for People with Disabilities
Our Club has helped build 1) A Customized Wheelchair Workshop which provides mobility to people who would not otherwise have it and train disabled workers
2) Prosthetic and Orthotic Workshop, providing prosthetic limbs and braces
3) Special Education Programs and Scholarships for Youth with intellectual and physical disabilities.
We have worked with Rotary Clubs from Canada, the USA and Guatemala, and been able to qualify for Matching District Grants and Rotary Foundation Grants; all of which supports the integrity and real difference Transitions is making. The people assisted by Transitions are very poor, indigenous Guatemalans. In a country where destitution is widely present. Having a disability creates insurmountable obstacles that push people and families deeper into a vicious cycle of poverty.
With over 20 years of service Transitions Foundation of Guatemala has been able to show the world the incredible impact that education, mobility and direct services can have on persons with disabilities.
The Salmon Arm Rotary Club is grateful to be able to help this foundation that epitomizes Service Above Self.