Project Lighthouse, Inc. - Community Center Program - Strengthening Community Infrastructure

Project Lighthouse’s endeavors expanded with development of our Community Center Program for strengthening community infrastructure. Securing a significant private donation from Eileen and Buddy Roche of Massachusetts, we were able to aid construction of an outdoor community resource center in the hamlet, Caserío La Bolsona, located in cantón Alemán, Nahulingo, Sonsonate. As planned by the community members, the Eileen and Buddy Roche Community Resource Center consists of an open exterior area covered by a roof attached to the community’s school, Centro Escobar Caserí La Bolsona, along with a large open concrete patio area, brick walls, and walkways. The exterior area serves as an outdoor classroom for the school and a meeting area for the community - a coordinated resource complex directly aiding in educational and other activities for the children complementing our Literacy Program, while strengthening the community's infrastructure.

Traditional dance performance April 2005 - Photo

Traditional dance performance April 2005

The center has been a valuable asset for the community. The children benefit from being able to expand their horizons for personal and group expression, including singing and theatrical play activities, important adjuncts to their learning environment. As with our other projects and programs, we found eager community members committed to bettering their lives and their community. Young to old exhibited a deep sense of personal and collective achievement with the completion of the center.

Their expressions of gratitude and thanks continue to be exhibited in so many wonderful ways for us both to behold and to enjoy. All work was done on a volunteer basis including by the children who actively took part during the construction, except regarding structural design for which an expert was hired. Following are some of the photos from the construction and use of the Eileen and Buddy Roche Community Resource Center (eleven available for viewing). We are looking for donations and opportunities to assist other communities with development of similar community infrastructure improvements.