By Terry Stierman | Executive Director - Conviventia USA
Gabriel is 12 years old and was born in Cartagena, Colombia. He and his sisters have been linked to the CDA School since they were babies, because their mother always wanted her children to study and receive a strong education.
Gabriel’s mother has received a lot of support from the school. A few years ago, she faced a very difficult divorce situation, and the social workers accompanied her and her children through this difficult process. She also received help for housing during this time, support which was a great blessing in those days of crisis and solitude. Three years ago, when Gabriel was in third grade, he came to a very critical stage in his behavior. He fought a lot and became very disobedient, which brought much tension not only to his family, but also in school. The school has an agreement with the Cakike Foundation to develop courses in music with children and adolescents in situations of poverty, and that year, as part of the selection process, Gabriel was chosen to start classes. This was a key turning point for Gabriel. He was proud and excited to be chosen, and this completely changed his attitude. Belonging to the group increased levels of demand which led him to change. He has remained in the orchestra, now playing the cello. Belonging to this project has been a great companion to the training he has received at school, because musical training focuses also on teaching discipline and values.
“I like the way the teachers give classes, and that they are always very attentive to all students,” says Gabriel. His mother adds that the social worker has been a great support in every situation of the family, and the accompaniment that Gabriel receives from the project has been key to his success in school.
For this family, the CDA School has been crucial in helping them to overcome every situation that they have had to face. Linking Gabriel to the Cakike Orchestra opened and continues to open many possibilities for Gabriel to continue to grow.
It is stories like Gabriel’s that truly illustrate the power of a strong education, and why your support for our schools is so much appreciated.
Thank you for your generous heart.
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