Exploring what to do

When we decided that we would move to Nicaragua we were not sure what type, if any, work we would do.  We were going as ‘professional volunteers’ which meant that we would not start any projects of our own but that we would help anyone with anything that was within our capabilities and interests.  We had no desire to be in charge, only to assist.  That meant that we would need to be open to sitting around for awhile.

After our Bolivian experience we craved community.  Finding people that looked at the world the way we did, that looked at missions the way did, that understood what we were trying to say without saying it, finding a supportive community – that is what we needed. 

During the previous trips we had established some contacts with some of the staff of World Renew and Christian Reformed World Missions who worked at the Nehemiah Center. We had no idea if there would any opportunities to work with them. 

Marg serving cake at the Nehemiah Center Christmas Party

Marg had read that there was a need for someone to work in communications, especially someone to update the website.  All that was needed was someone to write.  No knowledge of web design was necessary.  It seemed that it was something that she could do.  That project is completed.  Check it out at http://www/nehemiahcenter.net. She assisted in writing some handbooks and teaches conversational English to a number of the Nehemiah Center national staff.  Life is never boring; something new every day. The biggest problem is that most of her time is spent with English speakers so she is not getting a chance to use her Spanish.



Jake and Gilberto at the Manantial Land Bank Project

 

Jake has been able to find work in the agriculture area.  The challenge will be finding projects that fit his skill set and provide enough challenge and involvement.  There have been a variety of projects that he can become involved in but he has worked most often with the land bank that is located west of Jinotepe.  It is a project of Fundación San Lucas Nicaragua in collaboration with World Renew and Food Resource Bank.  The relationship started when the irrigation pump would not work and Jake was called to pick up a part in Managua.  Rather than just pick up the part, we went to check out what was needed and Jake showed them not only what was needed, but how it worked.  Since that time he has helped put in some irrigation lines and, through working alongside the people, gained their trust. Jake also is becoming acquainted with the land banks in Matagalpa and Boaco.

We are very content with what we are doing.  We are busy enough and still have time to relax, to garden, to play in the ocean, and to enjoy God’s creation and people.  We are thankful for everything!

As time goes on I would like to highlight some of the programs with which we work.  Keep watching!