My Nonprofit Reviews
kindurcan
Review for Child Aid, Portland, OR, USA
I am the father of two children adopted from Guatemala and have been working with Child Aid for a number of years as a way of supporting positive change in the country. I joined the board this year and had a chance to visit the country and see their Reading for Life programs first-hand.
I was most impressed to see how their multi-faceted approach -- providing books, training teachers and librarians and supporting local libraries -- is changing the culture of education in these communities. Not only are kids getting access to books and vital literacy skills such as critical thinking and problem solving, but teachers and librarians are getting high quality training that will make them better at their jobs. The energy and enthusiasm for learning (and teaching) that I found in the schools I visited was inspiring. It illustrates Child Aid's long-term focus on investing in and empowering local people that I think will pay great dividends in the future.
More Feedback
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
In 2011 I traveled to Guatemala and visited schools and libraries in six different communities where Child Aid works. I also spent a day observing a librarian training.
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
Broaden their base of supporters and donors. Not enough people know about them!
Will you volunteer or donate to this organization beyond what is required of board members?
Definitely
How much of an impact do you think this organization has?
Life-changing
Will you tell others about this organization?
Definitely
How did you learn about this organization?
Our group of adoptive families in Oregon originally found Child Aid when searching for non-profits working in Guatemala we could support.
What is this organization's top short-term priority?
Developing and building their Reading For Life programs and expanding them to new communities.
What is its top priority in the long run?
Create opportunities and alleviating poverty through literacy and education in Guatemala's poorest communities.
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2011
