Youth benefit from classes at Habitat for Humanity’s Getsemani community in El Salvador
Habitat for Humanity El Salvador’s holistic housing project continues to provide new opportunities.
SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador (June 27, 2012) – Last December, twenty youth from Habitat for Humanity’s Getsemaní community were selected to attend extracurricular classes every Saturday in the nearby city of Ahuachapán. Some of the students are now studying English, while others are learning basic computer skills.
The youth who selected English classes are learning vocabulary and grammar each Saturday. There is also a group study session offered during the week, where they can practice conversation and pronunciation. Their progress is already noticeable. Some students have advanced so far in their speaking abilities that they are able to communicate and even translate for visiting international volunteer teams!
In the Basic Computer skills class, Getsemaní youth are learning the basic functions and vocabulary of computer use. They study typing skills, Internet use, and common computer programs. These skills are not taught at their public schools because they do not have the resources to provide a computer lab for students.
The classes are geared towards helping the students gain the vocational skills necessary for finding a good job in the future. The program is funded by Myers Park Presbyterian Church in the United States.
Strengthening the Getsemaní Community is a three-year project that aims to improve the living conditions of 138 families in a low-income community through a holistic development project. In collaboration with community leaders and other partners, Habitat will build 90 houses and develop programs in community leadership, values education, community health, cultural exchange and microentrepreneurship.
About Habitat for Humanity
Habitat for Humanity International is a global Christian nongovernmental housing organization that brings together people of all races, nationalities and religions to build homes, communities and hope. Since 1976, Habitat has served more than 500,000 families by building and improving homes; by advocating for fair and just housing policies; and by providing training and access to resources to help families improve their shelter conditions.
Habitat for Humanity first opened its doors in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) in 1979, and has since helped more than 100,000 low-income families to access adequate housing in the region.