Give Hope to Vulnerable Ecuadorian Children

Dear Sirs/Madams,

Here in our country, within the Sierra region's academic calendar, we are nearing the end of the school year, and our children and adolescents are about to go on vacation—or at least those who have studied diligently, as the others will have to take remedial exams. It is also a time for camps and trips to the swimming pool.
Right now, nine children are attending the Rotary Club camp; they were invited and selected based on their academic performance and behavior.
Tomorrow, the group of adolescents from the "Autonomía" program—both young men and women—will head to the Yunguilla Valley to enjoy the sun and the pools. We should also note that they are attending the camp following a selection process based on both behavior and performance.
The parents and guardians of the children we serve held their General Parents' Workshop at the Chobshi Archaeological Center; The workshop was titled "Connecting with My Center and Nature: Calm Parents... Calm Children." It was facilitated by our staff social worker and psychologist with the aim of identifying the causes of anger and acquiring emotional regulation techniques that enable effective responses while connecting with nature and our roots.
Nutrition is a crucial factor during childhood and adolescence; therefore, I would like to highlight that the food kits we receive from the Cuenca Soup Kitchen are immensely helpful, as they allow us to provide the children and adolescents with healthy, nutritious food.
Since March, we have been conducting a deworming campaign for the children and adolescents. This activity is being carried out with great dedication and plays a vital role in supporting healthy growth; in addition to laboratory tests and medical consultations, the necessary medication is being procured and administered where required.
With warm regards,

María Elizabeth Barreto, Engineer
Director, El Arenal Foundation

Dear Friends and Supporters,

It is an honor to greet you and share the progress we have made thanks to your generous support.

Because of you, the care and attention provided to our children continues without interruption. This past quarter has been a season of meaningful learning and transformation. We have focused on empowerment — equipping our children with the tools, skills, and confidence they need to make decisions, express their opinions, and actively participate in their family and social environments.

We are witnessing something beautiful: children who once felt unheard are now finding their voices.

A key priority has been fostering autonomy. Through guided activities and continuous encouragement, our children are learning to advocate for themselves, understand their rights, and defend them with confidence. These are life-changing lessons that will stay with them far beyond our classrooms.

In the area of education and learning, we have worked intentionally to provide new knowledge, practical skills, and essential resources that prepare them to face challenges and reach their full potential. Through structured activities, mentorship, and constant support, we are building strong foundations for their academic and personal growth.

None of this would be possible without you.

Thank you for helping us empower each child and family. Step by step, together, we are breaking cycles of poverty and vulnerability and replacing them with opportunity and dignity.

Thank you for helping us inspire and guide children and adolescents to grow into responsible, hopeful young individuals — filled with dreams, purpose, and the belief that their future can be brighter.

Your generosity is not just support; it is transformation.

With heartfelt gratitude,