I became involved with Mayan Families several years ago after seeking ways that our family could "give back" to Guatemala. The youngest of our four children was adopted from GUA in 2005. A post on a GUA Adoptions message board led me to investigate Mayan Families further, and I'm sure glad I did. My initial connection was through a Yahoo Group called Mayan Families Connection, comprised of individuals (mostly from the US) who wished to band together to help MF. Soon after joining MFC, I offered to coordinate a shipment of donations to MF, and I have been coordinating 2-3 shipments each year for the past three years with the help of other MFC families who are local to the Boston area. In March, 2010, I was blessed with the opportunity to "follow the boxes" and visit Mayan Families in Panajachel, GUA. I get misty-eyed just thinking about my amazing week with Sharon, Patti, Dwight, and all of the wonderful staff members. While in Pana, I was able to visit with the students that I sponsor, I helped to assemble Easter baskets for Semana Santa, I assisted with a chicken distribution effort, and I visited many of the surrounding villages including Tierra Linda, San Jorge La Laguna, and El Barranco. The trip opened my eyes to the countless ways that MF helps the indigenous population. Not only do they provide organized programs like school sponsorship, micro-loans, onil stoves, and more, but they also tend to the urgent and specific needs of the people they serve... like the sad task of funding the purchase of a coffin. Their hearts open wide for the community and it is clear that they are beloved in return. I can hardly wait to return to Pana, and I will continue to support MF with shipments of donations and by spreading the word about this phenomenal organization.