Wisconsin Nicaragua Partners of the Americas, Inc.

Helping people by educating them on subjects and projects. This will let them use these skills to create something. With this skill they can sell the item they've created and help to support themselves.

I have been a volunteer with Wisconsin Nicaragua Partners for over 25 years. This organization continues city partnerships, funding for projects and classes in Learning Centers throughout the country, and shipping needed items and supplies. Even through the pandemic, at least 4 shipments were packed, shipped, and delivered to communities with the help of volunteers in Wisconsin and Nicaragua. This organization runs transparently and continues its mission successfully even in difficult times.

Wisconsin Nicaragua Partners of the Americas is a wonderful organization where we can go teach these people so many skills that God has blessed us with. We also learn from them so many valuable things about life. I keep collecting things for the organization that they need for sewing, knitting and crocheting projects. A win win for both sides.

The amazing volunteers in Wisconsin have continued to work to support Wisconsin Nicaragua Partners to provide assistance to the people in Nicaragua through monetary and physical item donations. So many volunteers have continued meetings virtually or in person despite the need to take precautions to prevent the spread of COVID.
In Nicaragua the ability to meet in person was greatly curtailed but not ended. Volunteers in country continue to distribute donated items and most learning center has made accommodations to gather for classes. I am looking forward to the time connecting in person with all our volunteers!
Together we will make a difference!

Wisconsin/Nicaragua Partners does an excellent job in helping Nicaraguans become self-sufficient. For Example, learning centers have been established in Managua that teach women how to sew and make craft items to sell. Also, lending libraries have been created whereby children can borrow books to improve their reading and educational skills.

Recommend someone go the the WNP warehouse to see the goods being sent. Go to Nicaragua and experience the learning centers and partnership with the citizens.

As a former treasurer of the organization, and as a non-profit director of several organizations, I can definitively recommend Wisconsin Nicaragua Partners of the Americas, Inc. as an organization that gets more "bang for the buck" than any other non-profit organization I have worked with. The dedication of the very small staff and the great devotion of the many volunteers is truly remarkable.

Since I first heard about the organization, I have loved everything about it. From helping collect re-usable items around the state of Wisconsin, to working with the military to send these items, to finally their relocation and allocation to the people of Nicaragua, the fascination never seizes to amaze me. The gals in the office work hard to ensure we as a state can help the citizens of Nicaragua and it shows! Keep up the great work! You can always count on me to support you.

WI/Nicaragua Partners in Stevens Point, WI is a wonderful connection with our Fort Atkinson WI partner city of Puerto Cabezas Nicaragua. Communication and reliability is assured. Love working with Amy and her team!

I have been a member of the Wisconsin-Nicaragua Partners organization, and have had the fortunate opportunity to work with the group on more than a few occasions. Perhaps the finest example of our efforts at social, economic, civic, and environmental development in Nicaragua was the Keystone Project, on which I was a consultant. We received a grant from the U.S. State Department to carry out the effort, which involved bringing municipal officials from four Nicaraguan small cities to Stevens Point, Wisconsin, and the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point (where I am on the faculty), and offer training classes to address each of the four program "pillars" mentioned above. About 60 officials traveled north for 10 days, which included not only the training sessions at UWSP, but job shadowing, touring, and social gathering. Shortly thereafter, we sent a group of local officials from Wisconsin to Nicaragua where they met up with the persons they had worked with as part of Keystone. Nicaragua is the second poorest country in this hemisphere (after Haiti) and it has been our privilege to have worked for over nearly a half century to foster the full development our "Sister State." Evidence of WNP's success and acceptance within the community and state could be seen in the nearly 400 persons who gathered for a banquet in Plover, Wisconsin a few years back as we celebrated our 50th anniversary. WNP is certainly the most dedicated organization that I have ever experienced. I urge you to recognize all that WNP has been accomplished. Robert P. Wolensky, University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point

It has been an absolute pleasure working with the Wisconsin Nicaragua Partners of the Americas, Inc. I have worked with them on numerous projects and have also donated many supplies to them for disbursement in Nicaragua. All of my interactions with their board and staff have been extremely professional. Their staff and volunteers are incredibly passionate and thoughtful as well.

The WNP helps women of Nicaragua learn skills that they can use to earn income for their families. They do a fantastic job of using donated items to supply the learning centers - including sewing items, beauty supplies, gardening tools and baking items. The results of these programs is amazing. WNP also supports an eyeglass project that provides donated eyeglasses to those in need. I have donated many items that I no longer need and worked with a group to make eyeglass cases out of plastic canvas. Monetary donations are used to ship the containers to Nicaragua, I am proud to support this program.

I have been volunteering my time with W/NP for several years to help with a number of their projects. I started as an intern during undergrad and had the opportunity to travel to Nicaragua for an eyeglass distribution mission. Two summers later, I had moved back to the area, and I spent time volunteering in their warehouse and helping to write a grant application. Now, over three years since I started my involvement, I am back as a graduate intern helping to develop a strategic plan for the organization.

No matter how much time or expertise you have to share, W/NP will always find a way to get you involved in one of their projects. They foster a welcoming environment and are always showing their gratitude for the help they receive. It is hard to not be involved once you get a glimpse of all the impactful projects they have going on. It is truly amazing all of the lives they are able to impact with their limited paid staff. It is really the volunteers that make everything possible, and I know for a fact that there are thousands of Nicaraguans that are eternally grateful for the efforts.

W/NP has several personalized assistance programs for people who require and request some kind of support or help. The cooking, sewing, and baking classes have encouraged several people to start small businesses for the good of the community where they reside. The Pressure Garment Therapy (PGT), Presoterapia, improves people's quality of life and help them to focus on their recovery from burns or cancer. I think there are only two places in all of Nicaragua that elaborate this type of garment and W/NP is one of them. Therefore, it must be maintained at all costs. Petronia y Lea have the magic to transform a piece of fabric into a healing and relief instrument.
The library program loans books to neighbor children to promote their thirsty for knowledge. Thanks Jael and Yorshuall and Geraldine.
The alliance among WPN and the firefighters deparments has help the whole country to reduce material loses and human lifes.
The COVID-19 restrictions has required the implementation of safety measures to maintain the attention of the people; activities have been kept under the "new normal".
Alliances with other non-profit organizations have allowed the organizations involved to complement each other by reinforcing existing weaknesses and improving their own strengths.
W/NP had have supported and helped directly and indirectly to all people in Nicaragua for so many years in all in segments as health, education, safety and hope.
There are always points of improvement such as programs to attract local donors, and increase the number of volunteers to extend the W/NP's aid programs.
I do volunteer activities at W/NP where I have experienced the deep appreciation and gratitude of the people whom W/NP has helped. It is an honor that W/NP allow me to return the blessings that I have received from others.

I considered that Wisconsin Nicaragua Partners has carried out in a country that is in such need as Nicaragua is an excellent humanitarian work, it is a very valuable and important organization in our lives with the extensive projects that are carried out and that help to get out of the poverty to many families, to empower women and men in rural areas and to train in new projects that are of great magnitude to be able to bring livelihoods to many households. Thanks for the support! God bless you!

I had the opportunity to study in Wisconsin 6 years ago. There was where I had the opportunity to do volunteering at Stevens point W/N Partners. Once I came back to Nicaragua I was aware the Organization was near by my house so I decided to to know about them and become a volunteer here in Nicaragua . W/N partners is a place to admire for all the projects and donations that change people lives. Volunteers and staff from US and Nicaragua work really hard to bring hope to people who need it the most. I love the libraries because encourage children to learn more and improve in their educations. w/ N Partners empower people to be leaders in their communities to have a better quality of life. My time supporting them have been incredible because I have learned positive values and the best gratification that you can receive as volunteer is gratitude from people.

My experience with my partner has been enriching as an artist to be able to be a collaborator of projects that benefit the community in cultural exchange through language and art

During this crazy time we live in, it would be easy to give up on volunteer work. Not so with Wisconsin/Nicaragua Partners! This group of dedicated volunteers continues to work hard impacting lives in Nicaragua and Wisconsin. During more than 50 years of working together, W/NP has provided life-changing programs and projects. Despite challenges and sometimes setbacks, W/NP has managed to carry on with persistence and creativity. The year 2020 has brought the greatest challenge ever. Volunteers know how critical W/NP programs are to the people of Nicaragua. I am impressed with the diligence and resourcefulness of W/NP in keeping the programs alive and by providing continued support. Being a W/NP volunteer for over 20 years has made me a better person with a love and respect for our neighbors to the South.

Hola soy Leonor Guerrero desde Nicaragua, deseo compartir mi pensar de la Organizacion Wisconsin Nicaragua, es una organizacion sin fines de lucro, que desarrolla proyectos y programas para el desarrollo en las comunidades enfocados especialmente a la gente de pocos recursos. En mis 36 anos de trabajar y conocer las actividades que se desarrollan , me llevo a la desicion de ser voluntaria luego de mi retiro. Para mi es una Organizacion que te enamora y te compromete en aportar tu tiempo pensando en el bienestar de los demas, involucrando a muchas personas tanto del Norte como del Sur. En lo personal estoy muy agradecida por el apoyo que le dan a los nicaraguenses, no importa si poco o mucho lo que si cuenta es lograr cambios en las personas para mejorar sus vidas. Muchos voluntarios han dejado grandes LEGADOS que impulsan a continuar y hacer la diferencia en este mundo.

I first heard of Wisconsin Nicaragua Partners from my university. I later was invited to visit their headquarters in Managua and to work with them and visit their libraries and learning centers. I cannot tell you how kind and caring the staff is. I also appreciate that they are partnering with the communities that they serve and not trying to force or demand anything. Instead, they respond to the needs of the community. They have a great reputation and have formed connections with Nicaraguan families and communities in a way that has lasted since the the advent of this organization. I'm so grateful to be a part of this organization because I know how much it means both to the staff and volunteers in the US and Nicaragua.

I've been affiliated with WNP for several years now, as a volunteer, a two-time traveler to Nicaragua, and a board member. This organization is so well organized and effective. The personnel in both the Stevens Point, Wisconsin, and Managua, Nicaragua, offices are dedicated and compassionate professionals. Many, many people have benefited from their humanitarian efforts and projects.

I'm a volunteer with this organization and am always amazed at the dedication to further advance the goodwill between the U.S. and Nicaragua. There's a large group of volunteers who continuously show up to do the work and promote humanitarian efforts to the Nicaraguan people. It's truly inspiring.

Hello
I got involved back 2008 when hurricane Mitch came through Nicaragua and change the lives of so many. Bill and Alva Davidson were active members of WNP. They asked me if I would get on board to help collect supplies from our area from those who wanted to help. I said yes and be began the media campaign. We used our church as a collecting spot for all the different items that came in. Once we had collected everything it was time to pack it all in gaylord boxes and ship it off to the warehouse in Stevens Point. From that day on I have been doing what I can to get information out about WNP. I participate in the folk fair at the university, international folk fair in downtown Eau Claire, global market at first congregational church. I was just voted to sit on the board of directors for WNP. We as an organization has grown over the past 11 years as an organization doing the impossible.

I have been a volunteer for the Wisconsin Nicaragua Partners since 1981 (38 years) and am proud to say that this is the best volunteer organization that I have seen. A tremendous amount of good for Nicaragua with a very limited budget.
Thanks, Tony Jilek

It's crazy to believe Wisconsinites are able to change the lives of people living over 3,000 miles away from them. W/NP provides Nicaraguans the tools needed to be successful. Their programs vary from leadership, youth, sports, lending libraries, agriculture, learning centers, health, cultural diversity, kitchen gardens, humanitarian assistance and more. Each program allows Nicaraguans to learn something new to better themselves and their community.

I've been involved with donating fabric, sewing machines, quiltlets, diapers, sanitary pads, and more for at least 10 years. The women of Nicaragua have done amazing work with sale of doll clothes, cake decorating and other work to help support their families. Wisconsin Nicaragua Partners of the Americas, Inc. has done a great job supporting them.

I fix all of the donated sewing machine here is Wisconsin and also have had two trips to Nicaraqua. I have seen what a difference we have made and personally meeting the recipients of the sewing machines has been very heart warming.
The evidence of our efforts is very visible and we are making a great difference.
i WILL CONTINUE WORKING WITH OUR GROUP FOR AS LONG AS i'M ABLE.

Jim Herman AKAQ "JIMBO"Shawano Wi

This is an outstanding organization that helps the Nicaraguan people in a number of ways. I had the opportunity to visit Nicaragua with a group of people from this organization, and I was very impressed at how much has been done to improve the lives of those involved. People go out of their way to donate supplies and training of all types to support those in need in Nicaragua. Perhaps what impressed me most was that they help people learn new skills and support their projects so that they can support themselves. It is a very wise method of helping people. I fully support Wisconsin Nicaragua Partners of the Americas and will continue to participate in their projects as much as possible.

Top-notch people with a heart for transforming lives. A great group that moves resources and gets things done. Love the work being done in Nicaragua ... I've visited the programs directly and can say that this is quality work that is making a difference!

Wisconsin Nicaragua Partners of the Americas maximizes contributions. With an extensive network of dedicated volunteers in both Wisconsin and Nicaragua much work is done with minimal expenses for staff in Wisconsin and Nicaragua. Also, the shipping is handled through the U.S. Humanitarian Shipment program which allows valuable project support to reach recipients. Finally, Nicaraguan guests are hosted by Wisconsin volunteers and soon become life-long friends. This organization is a wise investment.

I have attended several of the learning center tours of Wisconsin Nicaragua Partners. These learning centers are in spread across the country and offer training and materials for Nicaraguans to develop new skills, many of which lead to money making projects or new employment.

Wisconsin Nicaragua Partners has been a part of my life for many years. I have supplied donations, prepared and packed donations for shipment and traveled to Nicaragua to see how those donations are used. I can truly verify that each and every item is used by those in need. Donations provide women with supplies to earn a living through the items they produce, children with books and school supplies to further their education and items, including vehicles, that improve the health and wellbeing of the Nicaraguan people. I am proud to be a member of this organization!

It is truly an international person-to-person nonprofit. Several of us form the River Falls part of the sub-partnership with Ocotal, Nicaragua. We are currently helping Ocotal get kitchen equipment for a Ronald McDonald-like facility to house family members from the countryside who have members in the hospital.

At the quarterly meetings we usually have Skype sessions with various counter part groups in Nicaragua. In the last meeting it was with a children's library the WNP helped start. The children were so excited to tell us about how they loved the library.

I have worked with the Wisconsin/ Nicaragua Partners for 8 years now as a volunteer. I have seen the many hands-on opportunities to help give people, and especially women and children, training that they can use to become more self-sufficient and help others become more self-sufficient.

Volunteers are treated with the utmost respect and appreciation. I highly recommend this nonprofit!

I've been a member of this organization for 15 years and the services that they provide to the people are extensive and phenomenal. It is an honor to be a member of this excellent organization.

I traveled with the Feb. 2017 Learning Trek to Nicaragua. It was an eye-opening experience to see how our donations to Wisconsin Nicaragua Partners actually get to the people and are used to help their families. Wisconsin Nicaragua Partners is an amazing organization and I am proud to be a part of it.

While spending time with W/NP I was able to learn about the women who create these wonderful artistic items and felt a part of something much bigger than myself. The people in this organization truly have a niche for their work and put forth the effort.

I recently went on a trip to Nicaragua for spring break and absolutely loved it! The people there are extremely warm-hearted and the country itself is beautiful. I even got a chance to tour the Managua office for Wisconsin/Nicaragua Partners of the Americas and visit three of the learning centers there as well. I couldn't believe how different the quality of life was there compared to here and how some of the things we take for granted everyday, like running water, are a luxury many can not afford to have. What W/NP is doing for the people in Nicaragua increases their quality of life and helps people pay for daily essentials. By sending our love and support, we are able to help aid in the teachings available in their learning centers. Overall, Nicaragua and W/NP are both wonderful and unique in their own ways. I am so glad I went on this trip through the organization...I even got to practice my Spanish!

Andrew Johnson
2017 Member

The W/NP learning trek to Nicaragua was the best experience of my life. To teach them & learn from them and their many many needs was heart wrenching. I visited 7 schools and libraries that W/NP has started throughout the country and was amazed at what they have accomplished with little funding. I also saw the great need for water towers and outside stoves with ovens that the W/NP purchased & installed. The people are so greatful and appreciative of all we did to help them.

Amazing group of people doing even more amazing things! I got to go on the last trip to Nicaragua and saw firsthand the aid and difference WNP makes in the lives of many. I can't wait to be more involved and see how much further we go!

W/NP is a wonderful opportunity to become involved in an intimate cultural exchange, in many ways. Whether teaching, acquiring or packing goods, traveling to learning centers; one can not help but learn about, and from the people of Nicaragua. This organization focuses on"teaching one to fish," not a handout of short term existence. An incredible amount of tools for learning and creating job opportunities come from this organization and it's volunteers. There is a connection that elevates everyone above politics, to a personal love and respect for each other.

Wisconsin/Nicaragua Partners is an incredible nonprofit, which supports an amazing number and variety of projects in our partner country of Nicaragua. The dedicated volunteers in both Wis. and Nica. continuously strive to improve the lives of all people involved.
I have traveled to Nicaragua on seven trips with W/NP, and each time I can't say enough good things about the experiences, whether visiting learning centers or providing eyeglasses to individuals. Nicaragua is a beautiful country with friendly, loving people and I have always felt safe there and would encourage anyone to take a trip with us.
Our staff (in both offices) works tirelessly to help those in need as well as promote valuable cultural exchanges, such as Youth Ambassadors' visits, WI Lions' club trips, Farmer to Farmer, and too many more to mention. Our Learning Centers provide opportunities for people to gain skills that can be used to raise income for their families, so very important to help them help themselves.

After spending just five minutes in the Wisconsin Nicaragua Partner office in Stevens Point, WI, I was blown away at the multitude of projects they do and the impact they have one anyone who walks through their doors.

The work that WNP does is beyond words. I was able to travel to Nicaragua and meet the people who benefit from all the hard work- and they are so incredibly grateful for everything that the staff and volunteers do! I really feel like I am making a difference in the world and always appreciate the increase in myself awareness. WNP has added a strong line to my resume as I have learned and enhanced so many skills and have a host of experiences to speak on.

W/N Partners is one of the best experience it has happened in my life. Been a volunteer for many years serving in many projects in Nicaragua and the outcomes of the efforts of both countries are simply amazing and life changing. I can't imagine a better place to volunteer, I've felt welcome, comfortable and well instructed as to what to do to help others in need. Thank you W/N Partners for a job well done on all your endeavors . May God bless all donors, individuals, businesses and organizations for all their contribution for a better world.

Soy Rosi Bolaños, una de las personas favorecidas con este excelente programa que su organización impulsa en beneficio de las mujeres nicaragüenses para salir adelante y superarse en el aspecto laboral, económico y para que nos sirve como una formación integral como persona. En el poco tiempo de estar en la clase de bolso he aprendido mucho de la convivencia, la solidaridad y dedicación del personal que nos instruye. Agradecida grandemente con las personas u organismos solidarios para que este programa siga adelante muchos años mas!!!

I am Rosi Bolaños, one of the recipients of this excellent program carried out by your organization in benefit of the Nicaraguan women to succeed in the labor and economic aspect so that it serves us for an integral development as a person. In the short time I've been in the bag making class, I've learned about getting along with other people, solidarity and dedication of the staff who direct us. I am enormously grateful with people and organizations so that this program continues many more years from now.

My name is Erayda Vargas, coordinator of Hosanna LC in a rural community in Masaya, Nicaragua. This center belongs to one of the programs of Wisconsin/ Nicaragua Partners of the Americas. I have been working with this organization for three years and my experience has been really good. This organization provides social help, promotes women empowerment and community development in poor areas of our country. In my experience I’ve seen people emerge from learning at the center and nowadays work on their own or are employed by other businesses. I want to thank God and Wisconsin/ Nicaragua Partners of the Americas for the opportunity given to be part of this organization which has been a blessing for all the community and has also changed lives and families. Thank you so much for everything!

Thanks to WNP I got wonderful experiences about volunteering and work in groups. They taught that many goals at personal and community levels are reachable through work and group work. I participated in Youth Ambassadors program. Thank you so much WNP. Best Regards from Nicaragua.

Two days ago we visited the Managua Office of the WI/Nicaragua Partners of the Americas. While we were there, a local firefighter who was badly burned in a recent explosion, arrived at the office and requested compression garments to help heal his wounds. Skilled in sewing, learned through learning centers, several Nicaraguan women measured the injured man and promptly constructed the garments. All of this was done for free because of material support from Wisconsin and the generous efforts of the Nicaraguan women. For us, it was a profound and unforgettable experience. It is only one example of the outstanding work and relationship between Nicaraguan and Wisconsin volunteers.

Jim and Linda Krohelski

This is an excellent non-profit organization I have had the chance to volunteer in both places; Wisconsin and Nicaragua. All they do to support nicaraguans worth to admire.

We feel very comfortable in supporting the Wisconsin Nicaragua Partnership. Through the learning centers, eye glass missions, aid to fire departments, ambulances and other programs we see first hand how the aid gets directly to those in need. It is only when you have dedicated people in both countries that this happens.

I adore and admire WNP so much for the way that you care about the the entire well being of Nicaraguans; health, education, environment, economics...your learning centers empower so many individuals, businesses and communities with valuable knowledge that will prosper lives for many generations. Instead of pacifying them with retail products, you teach skills and assist with raw materials so that they can create their own designs and remedies. I am also forever amused with the variety of products that you find a second life for down there instead of them sitting in a landfill forever (restaurant seating, office furniture, sewing machines, bicycles, fire equipment)! Keep up the great work!

I have worked with a variety of nonprofits, either on their board of directors, or as a partner through my Rotary club. Based on my varied experience I can easily say that the dedication of the Wisconsin Nicaragua Partners volunteers, the well-organized staff, and the passion of all involved is simply outstanding. I have been proud to partner with this organization and hope to continue working with them in the future.

No other organization has offered such a return on my investment of time, dollars, friendships and feelings. No matter what the WNP contributes to our relationship with Nicaragua I am constantly inspied and amazed by the scope of people that are effected by the organizationsame commitment and volunteers. This has been by far the only organization that has given me more than I have given.

The Wisconsin Nicaragua Partners are an incredibly dedicated group of volunteers. With a strong emphasis on education, they strive to help the people obtain new skills (and the equipment to do it) to be able to better their standard of living, and, in turn, help others. They often will learn a new skill themselves before traveling to Nicaragua to pass it on. They travel with suitcases full of donated goods - from renovated computers to sports equipment. Their work is amazing!

The Wisconsin Nicaragua Partnership is a great example of not only helping people who are in need, but of teaching them to help themselves. I am impressed with the work the volunteers do, both in Wisconsin and Nicaragua. I am proud to be a part of this group!

An amazing group of people in both countries working together to help those in need through education, support and inspiration. I first learned of this group on a local TV news story and it caught my attention because I was already planning a trip to Nicaragua. I soon learned of the organizations benefits for the many peoples in Nicaragua. In Wisconsin many donated items are packaged up and prepared for transit in shipping containers. These are shipped via US Armed Services at no cost to a port near Nicaragua. Once received, the items are distributed out to the many different learning centers all over the country. The neat part is they are used to educate and inspire others to better themselves, not just a gift that might not get used. When I was in Nicaragua, I helped with some learning centers and helped build a new cook stove for a Managua School. A great organization with amazing people in both countries working together to make a difference for so many.

I had the chance to write a children's book for the Lending Libraries program for this organization in my Spanish class. Not only did I get to practice my Spanish language skills, I was giving Nicaraguan children the opportunity to learn. I have volunteered two more times after, and I am so happy that I have become involved in this organization! It has a great mission, and the other people involved are so nice to work with. I have had nothing but positive experiences with the Wisconsin Nicaragua Partners of the Americas!

Wisconsin/Nicaragua Partners of America is a seed of hope and progress. I personally have seen the positive impact that Wisconsin/Nicaragua Partners have done in rural community of Nicaragua. Llano Largo is an example of a new growing community where a sewing project is starting changing the live of many young women by giving them the opportunity of learn a craft that will help them to improve their live style. Through my experience of working with Wisconsin/Nicaragua Partners, I have learned the great value of doing volunteer work. Giving back to the community is a generous work to do.

This is a very dedicated group of volunteers, who always seem to go an extra step to solve problems they face in Nicaragua. Whether the work is done here or in Nicaragua, it is always done on a person to person basis, working with the people in need, not a bureaucratic agency.

I appreciate this great organization Wisconsi/nicaragua es a great nonprofits organization they do a temendueos job in nicaragua , helping people in need ,children in need ,I so proud to be part on this great organization

I recently donated some items for this agency and attended their warehouse when they were packing items being sent to the Nicaragua. I was impressed with the enthusiasm of the volunteers who assisted that day, the number of volunteers, and really impressed with the amount and quality of items being donated. Our community has rallied around this project, and it was refreshing to see how the items directly benefit the communities and people in Nicaragua. The agency keeps volunteers and the community well informed via newsletters. One can feel the energy of the group once involved and the agency is making a difference in the lives of the people it helps.

The Wisconsin Nicaragua Partners of the Americas work countless hours to help the people of Nicaragua. They collect thousands of items, backpacks for students, hospital equipment used to save lives, sports equipment used to build teamwork. Firefighting equipment used to save villages and lives. Not only do they supply the equipment, but many volunteers go to teach and help the people of Nicaragua lead better lives. The Wisconsin Nicaragua Partners Group of Volunteers is a true inspiration to many and is a prime example of what giving is all about.

In the small town of Stevens Point, everything seems to be connected. We help each other and use our resources to make things better. We believe in a "helping hand" to aid independence. And that is true for our outreach programs as well.
I have worked during the "packing days" for the Friends of Nicaragua Project and have been truly humbled by the generosity and commitment that this organization Instills. Whether it is the old pump organ that will provide music to a church service or the beds for children or the 10lbs of assorted nails and screws that were sorted and will be used to build and repair or the 40 yards of material that will be made into children's dresses, there is an identified need for everything . I have never seen such commitment or such efficiency in the transfer of materials. As Director, Amy Wiza is a wonder. Enough said. Bob Bowen drives a mean fork lift. Enough said. This organization channels an amazing amount of necessary support to Nicaragua and does so with an emphasis on volunteerism . All in all, it is an organization to support with great pride.

When you meet the people who receive the items or come to the many learning centers I feel a true thankfulness and am blessed by the people of Nicaragua! Dino -board member

I enjoy helping collect items to benefit the people of Nicaragua as they work to improve their living conditions and their ability to provide for themselves. Wisconsin/Nicaragua Partners has provided my students with information regarding their projects in Nicaragua on several occasions. I am most impressed with the excellent organization of donations and development of beneficial projects.

I helped gather and organize items for the fund raiser rummage sale. All items were donated and I donated $200 worth of items. It was fun to work with other volunteers. We raised $1700 with teamwork by all the volunteers

I attended the last Quarterly meeting held in Stevens Point, WI and again was very impressed with the continuing connections between the people of Wisconsin and the many people in Nicaragua and the excellent meeting format with continuing updates on projects discussed in previous meetings. I cannot say enough about my admiration and respect for the very real personal impact this vibrant, active organization has on both Partners. Wi/Nic Partners will celebrate their 50 Year Anniversary in November 2015. I recently upgraded my status to LIFE Member by paying a one time amount of $500, because I realized I consider myself a member for life and needed to act on this. I challenge other members to take that step and become LIFE Members. My challenge to all involved is to have LIFE Membership grow by at least 50 to start our next 50 years!

Several years ago, the Altrusa club sponsored a sewing room shower for the Wisconsin Nicaragua Partners, on a Make a Difference Day. Soon thereafter, a volunteer from the organization spoke at a meeting to inform us of the program and its services, and the club annually made a financial donation, for books for the children's libraries.
I personally celebrated a friend and my birthdays by providing fund for a student's tuition. This winter I traveled to Nicaragua with theWNP on a learning center tour. In my more than 50 years of international travel, I have never had such an incredible trip.
I was very impressed with the programs provided to the local folks, and the focus on their identifing their local needs.
The warmth of the people made the trip a joy.

I traveled with W/NP on a medical trip before I started a master's program in international health. I wanted to make sure I was getting into the right field, and this trip confirmed and enhanced my interest. We talked to professionals from a number of different types of medical facilities in various cities, and I was able to see firsthand the challenges of providing care in resource poor settings. I later traveled to Kenya for a master's practicum and engaged in similar activities in that portion of the world (except that time I got credit for my work . . . and had to pay a lot more money for the trip). Some of the other students in Kenya were shocked by the conditions of their medical facilities. but I had seen similar issues in the clinics and hospitals in Nicaragua and was able to compare and contrast the challenges among settings. The trip with W/NP was of the same quality as my practicum and gave me additional experience, which has aided me in my career. (I now work with an international medical organization.)

My husband and I are retired health professionals with 4 year opportunity to support our local fund raising and public awareness efforts on behalf of families and organizations in Nicaragua. We have traveled to Nicaragua each year to fulfill projects we develop with other members, donors and volunteers. Each year the projects build on previous activities designed to teach women, children and families to build self-sufficiency, obtain better health and health care, pursue education, network with other organizations and pursue a commitment to themselves, their family and their community.
We welcomed a Managua plastic surgeon and WNP Nicaragua staff to Wisconsin to learn about treatment of burns here (including hyperbaric chamber treatment) and learn about resources and support to continue a unique project of sewing and fitting compression dressings to help burn patients heal with less scarring. This is the only free program of its kind in Nicaragua and is managed by WNP donations of materials, space and Nica Volunteer seamstresses to work with medical oversight to serve burn patients from all over Nicaragua.
There are many projects and fund raising all year to bring real help and to involve our members, volunteers and local schools, businesses and organizations into this work. Our Appleton group is very proud to develop our local resources and volunteers and to support and enjoy the expertise of the statewide central office.
The coordination of full time staff and volunteers and staff both here and in Nicaragua makes this a unique and very successful ongoing and amazing effort.

Wisconsin Nicaragua Partners of the Americas, Inc., had done an outstanding connecting the people of Nicaragua with the people of Wisconsin. I have been a member of WNP for many years and have traveled to Nicaragua to see first-hand the organization's tremendous work. From Learning Centers, to Sewing Centers, to Libraries, to Farmer-to-Farmer, Eyeglasses--through these and other projects WNP has made a difference in the lives of thousands of Nicaraguans. The programs have been in addition to the millions of tons of goods that have been shipped from Stevens Point to Managua, and then on to numerous cities and towns.

The organization is very well run by Amy Wiza, the executive director, and by the board of directors. These are among the most dedicated humanitarians I have ever met. They have been in it for the long-run, and they have put everything into it.

It is one of the outstanding voluntary organizations in Wisconsin and the U.S., in my opinion.

I've been to Nicaragua twice while volunteering for Wisconsin Nicaragua Partners of the Americas. The organization has made itself felt throughout the country. I remember drinking coffee one morning in San Juan del Sur, having traveled there because of unrest in Managua during the national elections. As I sat at a table outside the restaurant a fire engine came racing down the street, siren screaming, on the way to a fire. On the side of the old un-repainted engine was the name of a Wisconsin town.

Wisconsin Nicaragua Partners rocks! This nonprofit is powered by an incredibly generous, selfless group of volunteers in both Wisconsin and Nicaragua that work incredibly hard to make a huge difference in people's lives and the environment! I have been a personal witness to this work, which has gone on for decades with little fanfare or spotlight. I worked along volunteers in Nicaragua on environmental issues and hosted several Nicaraguans in my home. Many volunteers in both countries have become close friends -- and influenced my career choices. Financial contributions to Wisconsin Nicaragua Partners (in addition to volunteer work) are absolutely one of very best investments that individuals can make. Few dollars are spent on overhead and PR so donations go far and help accomplish so much good. Becoming involved in this nonprofit is addictive. Once you get to know the heartwarming individuals in WNP and learn about all the good things accomplished, you will never want to quit!! Kudos to the large corps of very dedicated volunteers who make such a meaningful difference.

Nicaragua is a beautiful country that has tremendous resources but has suffered setbacks, both natural and manmade. Wisconsin Nicaragua Partners of the Americas (WPN) is special to me because it helps the Nicaraguan people to help themselves. WPN provides educational materials to “Learning Centers” that are established cooperatively throughout Nicaragua. After visiting several learning centers it became clear to me that efforts by volunteers to provide educational materials and requested training to the centers is the type of humanitarian aid that can change the world. WPN is an example of cooperation between peoples (volunteers) of two countries interested in improving quality of life. I feel very fortunate to be a part of WPN.

Wisconsin Nicaragua Partners were very influential in helping my daughter complete her Gold Award and she isn't even from Wisconsin! They were very helpful and I am impressed with all of the many projects they work on.

I began working with Wisconsin-Nicaragua partners as part of my Girl Scout Gold Award (which I finished!) and am still working with them to help build a library in Nicaragua. I found the group to be easy to work with and very helpful. This has been a wonderful connection for me and I hope to continue my work with them for years to come.

As a diplomat I observed the work of volunteer organizations in many countries of Asia, Africa and Latin America, and I did whatever it was possible as a government officer to assist their efforts. My expectations for such groups accordingly are very high. In the past decade I have worked extensively as a volunteer with Wisconsin Nicaragua Partners, and the group always has produced results that exceeded my highest expectations. In its cool, persistent and energetic way the leadership of W/NP has done in my view exceptional work in aiding and actively promoting support for educational work in Nicaragua and for provision of both financial and material support for projects in Nicaragua. I find these efforts well exceed what is possible between governments alone as they demonstrate the remarkable things that interested and dedicated people can do for each other.

I have been involved with the Wisconsin Nicaragua Partners of the Americas for several years, and have seen first-hand the great things that they do to help people in Nicaragua. I have also seen how the people of Nicaragua have helped me and others I know. This truly makes it a 2-way street!

This summer I was able to take a group of 14 teenagers to Nicaragua on a very reasonably priced trip. The experiences they had working with W/NP and the new friends that they made will never be forgotten! I would highly recommend getting involved in this incredible group. It's a great way to connect with people in your own area and around the world!

I have had many short-time (2 - 4 weeks) agricultural economic development projects in Nicaragua. Also, for various reasons I have been involved with the Wisconsin Nicaragua Partners. I am impressed with WNP's ability to combine people-to-people relations with economic help. They have a small competent staff in Wisconsin and Nicaragua. Being an Economist I love efficiency. I now have many friends in Nicaragua. Also, through the WNP's shipping program me, my colleagues, Partner friends in Nicaragua have provided many thinks to needy people in Nicaragua. Currently we are packing 23 computers and 14 wheelchairs for the next shipment.

This is one of the most remarkable Nonprofits that I have had the pleasure of volunteering. I have traveled to Nicaragua for two of their trips. One is the Annual Learning Center Trek and the other is one of their Eyeglass Mission trips. I have also volunteered for a few packing and shipping days as well. I have always been impressed with their use of resources and the dedication of the staff. Everyone involved really leaves a part of the heart in their work.

From logistics to outreach to sustainable impact in Nicaragua, this nonprofit really succeeds at bringing both and cultural exchanges to this country. The staff in both offices are dedicated and passionate. The volunteers are very diverse yet equally devoted. The impact in various projects, such as the burn center, is undeniable. I will be a life long lover of Nicaragua, it's culture and the strength of it's people and I thank the WNP for that.

Brandon Taylor

The W/NP staff in Stevens Point is composed of two very dedicated and capable people. Therefore, W/NP relies on volunteers who are willing to share their time, talents and support. The volunteers never complain while, at times, working in very harsh weather conditions both here and in Nicaragua. Their gratification comes when they see the eagerness and enthusiasm (from Nicaraguans of all ages) to learn from what we give them to help improve their quality of life as well as improve their financial situations.
My first experience was on the Learning Center trip in 2014 and I was very impressed by the people in Nicaragua. They are very friendly and are very appreciative of our help.
The success of W/NP relies heavily on the volunteers. They are the backbone of this worthy organization.

I am chair of the Department of Community Resource Development at University of Wisconsin Extension in Madison and I have been involved with WNP for over 20 years. Many of our faculty members have traveled to Nicaragua to work with the Nicaraguans on agricultural, community development, leadership, organizational development, planning, health, small business development and tourism promotion. WNP has been most supportive and professional in their collaboration and cooperation with the University of Wisconsin.

Currently I am working with Wisconsin beekeepers to teach basic beekeeping to people in Nicaragua to provide them with the education and training to become good beekeepers. The honey from one hive can double the annual income of many impoverished families. WNP has been most helpful in providing the administrative and logistical support for the NicAbeja Proyecto.

I have watched the women, and a few men , learn skills in the learning centers for 30 years. Sometimes the women would like to make a business of their new skills, but lack the knowledge and finances to start. The start of the Opening Doors to Opportunity project was a small grant from the Madison West Rotary to give some basic business instruction and funds to put their experience to work. After ten years, some 300 women, and a few men, have had the experience of putting their ideas into practice. It is gratifying to visit them in their homes, or just to talk with them to feel the enthusiasm and resolve they put into their work. Some have invested the earnings into improving their business. Others have used them for family and home improvements.
Bob Stodola

As a board member of another non-profit working in Nicaragua, it is impossible to express the help we have received from W/NP. Amy and the staff here and in Nicaragua go the extra mile to help whenever needed. I enjoy the dedicated volunteers when I am able to make one of the packing or shipping days. I have seen first hand the work done by W/NP and its volunteers in Nicaragua and it is truly amazing. These people are all in great shape because "There is no exercise better than reaching down and lifting people up." and that is what this group does best.
Jeff White- Projects for People

I am originally from Estelí, Nicaragua and in my desire to help my own community, El Regadio in Estelí, I started collecting from my friends in Madison WI, toys and Schools supplies to send to the kids from kindergarten (Escuela Ruben Dario, Comunidad El Regadio, Esteli). This has been a dream and a project which is shared with my sister Elizabeth who used to teach there for many years but had to retire due to her illness (cancer). To my surprise I was able to find very close to me this wonderful organization that made very easy for my sister and me to accomplish our dream. This organization believes that helping Nicaraguans and their communities is the best way to improve people`s lives in the world. This was translated throughout the treatment I received as soon as I met Amy W. and Bob B. They were loving and caring, their actions with me show truth appreciation to the cause they are working for and match really well my passion and desire to help a small school that is very dear to me and my sister`s heart. I would fully trust and recommend this organization to anyone and I send my special thanks to everyone that works and volunteers for this organization.
Thank you WNP - Reyna Jarquin

I am involved with W/NP behind the scenes with technology. As a student volunteer, I see nothing but hard work and effort coming from the offices of W/NP. The full time staff are passionate about helping others and they work together to get work done. I wish I could do more, but I feel I have done my part by keeping the website up to date and volunteering at a few events. I am honored to continue to work for this amazing organization and I look forward to what my remaining years in Stevens Point brings.

This past February I participated in the 2014 Wisconsin Nicaragua Partner's- Learning Center Trek after being invited by a friend who had gone the year before. It was an amazing experience and one I highly recommend to others who are interested in learning about another part of the Americas. The trip was very well organized by the Wisconsin Nicaraguan Partner's central office in Stevens Point. The staff at the Center were extremely helpful and offered an orientation to those who were first time participants. It took very little effort on my part in terms of travel arrangements.

The Nicaraguan staff were also professional and welcoming. I was touched by the workshop participants who were so enthusiastic about attending and eager to learn new skills. We were in both rural and urban settings and visited a residence that served as a volunteer fire department with equipment donated by Wisconsin fire and emergency organizations. We also visited a school that was started by a Nicaraguan couple who wanted to bring education to their neighborhood. It was a school that started with a few students and in a short few years expanded to over 300 students. Again WNP was the source of one of their buildings as well as supplies and recorders donated so that the students could learn a musical instrument. What impressed me most was how small our world really is. The girl's chorus at the school entertained us with their rendition of a song that won an Emmy this year -I Want to Be Royal. I just thought teenagers are teenagers anywhere in the world.

I highly recommend the trip.

One of the great things about Wisconsin-Nicaragua Partners is that it has strong central offices in
Stevens Point, Wisconsin and Managua, Nicaragua coordinating its many activities--learning centers, farm programs, chica-nica doll project, eye glasses project , burn dressings project, travel programs, and much more--but also partner cities, which sponsor projects with their own partner city. For example I have been a member since 2000 of the Fort Atkinson-Puerto Cabezas , a part of the Partners of the Americas for the Americas for over 40 years. Our group has supported a learning center, helped to set up a library, sent seeds to many local farmers who had lost crops because of flooding, and given scholarships to students. Working together we make a difference!

Hola amy mucho gusto en saludarte a ti y a la organización. Yo tengo desde el 2004 trabajar con la organización, para mi es excelente seguir trabajando porque así ayudamos a otras personas, transmitiendo todo lo q podemos y tenemos a nuestro alcance. Felicito este organismo por ser el primero en apoyarnos con materiales de trabajo para los centros de aprendizajes formado por nuestro organismo, me ha gustado el sistema de organización porque así nos proyectamos con personas sin distingo de sexo, color o raza.
A pesar de las ciudades muy largas, hemos estado en contacto para trabajar de la mano Nación con Nación
Felicito a todos los que han hecho posibles tan hermosa idea ya que juntos marcamos la diferencia.

Que el señor les bendiga.

Dear friends, my wife and I have 4 years of working with Wisconsin, 2 years
8 rural community EL Piñuelar, San Pedro Project, piñatas first course and then
ongoing support us SEWING 8 electric machines have passed the course and are working
in its self-sustaining, this year we have another 8 farmers with another project, ""NUESTRA SEÑORA DE
LOURDES, VALLE LAS ZAPATAS", have passed the course of piñatas and are in the course of
shirt, skirts, and aprons, and also an economic support as loans for purchasing your
materials or supplies that Wisconsin not have at his disposal, and the communities EL PIÑUELAR, VALLE LAS ZAPATAS, we are grateful for all this that cross of Wisconsin are doing the work of people with low income and other
so that they have their own support their families, that you saw here in Nicaragua
precarious living needs these families, may God bless me, so that
these and other more families have the opportunity to be favored.
social work for all this non-profit and are as aware of this marriage,
by the work we Wisconsin par Nicaragua, we will give you a rate
tion of 5 stars it is very well deserved

I've been a volunteer with W/NP for about 15 years, and have been so impressed by the hard work and dedication of everyone involved. It's amazing to see how a little assistance has bloomed into such fantastic programs, such as the therapeutic burn dressings project.

Fifty (50) years of continuous humanitarian support at the grass roots level of families and individuals in needs says it all. WNP makes a lasting impact through projects that respond to real needs facilitated by an infrastructure that works. Their feedback to support donations is immediate and real. Your sewing machine donation is registered to a Learning Center or individual and you can even see the results in the Chica Nica link on their website or join one of the WNP tours for a first hand experience. My tour visits are always exceptional. A fantastic organization.

The most fulfilling part of being a volunteer for Wisconsin/Nicaragua Partners is by far taking something to someone who without us could never even dream of what we have brought them. Seeing their eyes glow and their ideas inspired is such a pleasure. Being involved in WI with teaching others of the needs of another country and sharing the opportunities, which can be as simple as donating eye glasses or sending a back pack, yet so impactful by giving someone clear vision for the first time or the opportunity to go to school, is unreal. When traveling there is nothing more wonderful then seeing someone's eyes open to how much more there is in the world. These opportunities here in WI would not be the same without WI/Nicaragua Partner's, they are an incredible organization, doing so much more in the lives of others than they may even realize.

Wisconsin/Nicaragua Partners is a tremendous organization run by highly dedicated (and skilled) staff and volunteers. I have served as a volunteer, as well as an advisor on on one project, and it is clear to me that W/NP has "made a difference" in the lives of numerous NIcaraguan citizens and communities. The organization has also helped educate and inform Wisconsinites and other Americans regarding the importance of our relationship with our sister state, Nicaragua. The resourcefulness and dedication of the staff and volunteers, both in Wisconsin and in Managua, is something to behold! In my view, WN/P is one of the finest organizations of its type in the U.S., and its work is far from done.

With just a few years I've been involved with W/NP is more than enough to see how volunteerism to one of its programs, the Learning Centers, has helped improve Nicaraguan women's quality of life. Let us have the will of contributing according to our possibilities to keep the organization running in both countries, Wisconsin and Nicaragua.

The Wisconsin Nicaragua Partners of the Americas (WN/P) is an outstanding organization. My wife first got involved through the Learning Center programs, where volunteers from Wisconsin travel to Nicaragua to conduct workshops and open libraries for the Nicaraguans. I was a volunteer member and was asked to travel to Nicaragua to do a summary report on a youth baseball program that WN/P initiated three years before. Since that time we have been back to Nicaragua several times and I now serve on the Board of Directors. Working with the Nicaraguan people is very rewarding because they are so appreciative of everything you do for them. We are looking forward to our next trip.

Hace 6 años atrás que pase a formar parte de la familia de Wisconsin Nicaragua partners of the americas, cada dia que he compartido con la organización ha sido una aventura llena de aprendizaje, de crecimiento como ser humano porque me han enseñado a compartir con las personas y asi mismo que el voluntariado es entregarse a uno mismo sin esperar nada a cambio, y que todos aportamos dia a dia un cambio, todos los nicaragüenses estamos agradecidos por tanta generosidad y enseñanza que nos han transmitidos.

tengo 5 año de conoser la organisacion en ella e aprendido muncha cosas como bisuteria,tejido dordado ensinta,reposteria,bolso,fomy y otras clases. tengo 3año de dar clase de bisuteria de trabajar como voluntaria para la organisacion de wisconsi nic. etenido la oportunida de que me apollaron en el peor momento de mivida com mi esposo cuando tubo un asidente lo baliaron . wisconsi me apollo en ese momento lo les agradesco muncho,por su apollo la experencia es muy buena

Tengo 3 años como voluntario en nuestra organizacion lo inicie en el proyecto de ortesis o presoterapia lo cual a sido una gran experiencia en el trabajo de los quemados, la organizacion de wisconsin nicaragua partners me ha dado esa oportunidad mas afondo ya que este trabajo lo inicie en mi area de trabajo el cual es el Hosp. Esc. Antonio Lenin Fonseca.
Mi aprendizage lo realice en el Hosp. Vivian Pellas que tambien le agradesco su aporte, si como a wisconsin por seguir intando a esta labor tan grande de ayuda a los nesesitados y piense que con el esfuerzo no solo mio sino de todos los que trabajamos para los quemados y por los quemados saldremos adelante.

18 años de ser voluntaria y en ese lapso de tiempo he observado y compartido las experiencia y el buen funcionamiento del trabajo que realizan todas las personas que hacen lo posible por apoyar a las mujeres de los centros de aprendizaje especialmente a mujeres en desarrollo, en mi caso personal aprendi a ser lider, naci en esta organizacion despues de muchos retos en el cambio de una estado de mujer sumisa a una lider a travez del aprendizaje lograndolo con mucha comunicacion, tolerancia, trabajo en equipo, humildad y sencillez.

Gracias por existir y ser parte de muchas personas que han sido beneficiadas con sus imnumerables proyectos para el bien comun.

Hace 20 anos estoy en la organizacion W]N en este tiempo aprendi muchas cosas coser, tejer, bordar a maquina entre en el proyecto chica nica. Desde entonces mi vida a cambiado esto ha servido para mejorar la economia de mi familia, actualmente comparto todos mis conocimientos con todas las personas que lo deseen.

Being part of WNP has been a life changing experience. As a Nicaraguan volunteer and partaker of it´s programs, It is wonderfull to finally find an organization that cares about getting to know the people they work for. WNP it´s not only the place where I do volunteering, it is my family. I have learned leadership skills and overcome fears with WNP. I have no words to express my grattitude to this organization for the work they do for Nicaraguans.

Lilliam Pérez

My first encounter with the Partners of the Americas was in 1969 in Bolivia where I noticed a bronze plaque on a bridge over the Mamore River to Villa Tunari describing the Alliance for Progress which President Kennedy started; then divided that into the Partners and Peace Corp. In Honduras after hurricane Fifi I'd taken a medical team to help. We worked with a team from Nicaragua during the day, then enjoyed partying with them at night. I was made an honorary citizen of Jinotega, Nicaragua in 1976. During their civil war I was president of the Wisconsin/Nicaragua Partners and was protected by both the Contras and Sandinistas as I travelled throughout that beautiful nation. I've learned to cope with some of the terribleness of war, and have used those experiences to better understand our Nicaraguan partners. As Partners we enjoy sharing ideas, talents, and our love for each other.

Wisconsin/Nicaragua Partners is a most impressive not-for-profit organization which is changing the lives of participants in both Nicaragua and Wisconsin. Programs that teach sewing and sewing machine repair, bicycle repair, cake decorating, square meteer gardening, dairying and cheese making, firefighting, sports, and lending libraries give Nicaraguans skills to improve the quality of their lives. These programs allow a diverse groups of Wisconsin particpants to share their expertise and interests with enthusiastic, motivated, hard-working Nicaraguans who share those interests. And ALL the participants benefit from the shared learning experience and human interaction. It is truly a program of mutual enrichment through person to person interaction.

Wisconsin-Nicaragua Partners have given my wife and I the opportunity to take part in about a dozen eyeglass trips. The organizational support for Nicaragua volunteers is outstanding. We cherish the friendless and appreciation of the Nicaraguan people we serve.
My wife also collects donated stuffed toys that come into our civic center. They can be packed almost anywhere in a shipment, and may be used to cushion delicate medial equipment. One of my favorite sights is a colorful string of stuffed toys that have been washed, and are drying on our clothesline.

I first learned of WNP from friends who traveled to Nicaragua, and in 2003 I made my 1st of 10 trips to Nicaragua. All but one was working with the Eye GLass Tour. We will go to different towns and villages and help people to see clearly for the 1st time in years. Young and old come out and wait sometimes for hours hoping to be seen. When you see the face of a person who just recieved a pair of Lion's Club glasses and their vision has been restored it truly wonderful. The people of Nicaragua have given me so much more than I can ever give back to them, but I'll try. This is a wonderful organazation, the people are giving on both sides. i started as a volunteer after a few years became a Board Member and at the end of this year I'll agin be a very blessed volunteer.

Wisconsin Nicaragua Partners is a marvelous organization because of what it does to improve the lives of folks both in Wisconsin and Nicaragua. The exchange of culture, friendship and material aid enriches us all. The real backbone of the organization is the people in it, both in Nicaragua and in Wisconsin. From the directors, and office staffs to the many volunteers and donors , we work together . If this body of people, both in Nicaragua and Wisconsin was not so committed to learning new ideas to improve their lives and to share their ideas WNP would not flourish. So, in conclusion, the two way nature of the program and the commitment of the people in it are what makes it work and makes it great.
On a personal level, I have traveled to Nicaragua a number of times and have hosted Nicaraguans in my home. Each time was a blessing and an opportunity to deepen friendships and cultural awareness. Then when we meet again in the opposite country the welcoming smiles warm the heart. It is the best “high” one ever has.

As a health care administrator, I was shocked when I heard about patients sharing beds and having no privacy. We were able to ship hospital beds, privacy curtains and an ambulance assist this struggling hospital. We were also able to send a group of paramedics to provide training to local volunteers. Our small group continues to offer limited health care to a small mountain village once a year. We learned from one of the women from this village, who was visiting our group, that she needed a surgical mesh to repair an abdominal hernia that could become life threatening. In order for her to have the surgery, she had to provide the mesh. We were able to obtain the mesh from one of the local hospitals and she was able to have the surgery when she returned to Nicaragua. Several retired teachers have organized a scholarship fund to provide educational opportunities to children from this mountain village. A few students have pursued training in nursing after graduating from high school. My wife has been treasurer of our group since it's inception in 1992. We both continue to be highly supportive of Wisconsin Nicaragua Partners and have met many wonderful people from this country over the years.

One of my goals in retirement was to travel to Nicaragua to do good deeds with Wisconsin/Nicaragua Partners. My experience there was everything I had hoped for and more, and I am about to return for the 8th year in a row! What makes this organization so special? A group of vibrant, dedicated volunteers who do everything possible to make life better for those they meet (or have been linked with) in Nicaragua. Fund-raisers, donations, and projects in Wisconsin are used to create greater opportunities for employment, education, and income for the Nicaraguan people. The people in Nicaragua also have input into the goals for their community and the projects undertaken, and by working TOGETHER, positive change has occured. I have particularly enjoyed working with the children and seeing them grow into responsible contributing adults. I support a scholarship program (through WNP) that allows Nica youngsters to continue their studies past sixth grade. Working on planning, establishing, and providing books for a lending library for a small mountain-top community to use has been a rewarding opportunity as well. Sharing songs, dances, and crafts with the children keeps me busy in Nicaragua and allows their parents uninterrupted time to attend workshops as part of WNP projects. It has been a win/win situation for all involved!

Since first traveling to Nicaragua as a representative of W/NP the direction of my life has changed. This organization provides an opportunity to give the Nicaraguans education and skills which leads to hope and sustainability in their lives. For US volunteers to give of themselves is a win-win situation for all involved.

Being a member of WNP has been nothing short of life changing for me.This organization is run by the most energetic, passionate, and dedicated people I have had the privilege to meet. I have been part of a small group of people who have traveled to Nicaragua yearly to work with a small mountain community that we have literally "adopted". In the 5 years I have been traveling we have worked on scholarships for students, water filtration, building playground equipment, a learning center, a lending library and refurbishing the school and Health building. I have been most actively involved in conducting leadership training for the youth and working with the Woman's Group. I have helped teach the women sewing and crafting skills to help them personally as well as enabling them to sell some of their products. Recently , 2 particular moments brought me to tears. After driving up the mountain to say good-bye we pulled up to the learning center to find men, women, and children working on a variety of projects with the music blaring and smiles on everyone's face - what progress! Last year when we were able to pay the women for the jewelry they were making they were overwhelmed and said it was the first time in their lives they had ever been paid for anything they had done. LIFE CHANGING for all of us!

Wisconsin Nicaragua Partners is a great organization. The partner city concepts is a great way for people to connect between countries in a personal way. Yes, we do many things to assist the people in poverty in Nicaragua, but there is also a focus on developing a two-way relationship and helping them create strengths were the Nicaraguan people can do things for themselves to build up their communities and their nation. I traveled with the group several years ago, and it was a life-changing experience. The work they do really has a positive impact on people's lives - for both the Nicaraguans and for us.

I am so impressed with WNP. I first became involved several years ago after hearing a member give a passionate account of the work WNP does. After traveling to Nicaragua with the group, I could see firsthand the fruits of their labor over the years. I saw children with no means of furthering there education, supported in their community school and finally graduating in professions of nursing, pharmacy and law. With hopes they will bring back there education to the community. I saw learning centers, and lending libraries in poor villages where women came and were taught skills that will help them support themselves, buy a little extra food, and maybe a little better health care. Maybe some day someone in the village will be able to buy a car to use for medical emergencies. I saw so many books, chairs and clothes packed up from here and sent. A smiling community baseball team playing in a cow pasture, wearing donated baseball hats, and t shirts. All with smiles on their faces. And so much more.

For the past several years I have been traveling to Nicaragua but it was in 2009 that a wonderful experience happened on the Isle of Ometepe. It was in Merida that we met two beautiful children which changed everything for us. We ship to the village of Merida and Esquipulas gaylords of material. Incuding: items for the learning center, school supplies, stuffed animals, toys, bikes this is just but a few of the items. The e-mails sent to us are breath taking for instance one girl said this is the only Christmas present I ever got. Now the Learning center the ladies are making items and selling, one note came it is the first time in my life that I had a little money to buy my children a gift. Yes, we are making a difference in lots of lives.

WNP has opportunities for people from all walks of life and with a wide variety of skills and interests. The programs include lending libraries, bike repair, youth sports, sewing projects, gardening projects, farming, and MUCH more. Check our www.wisnic.org for more information.