Support literacy and learning for 1,900 Maya youth

These last few months have been exciting ones for our Limitless Horizons Ixil Saber sin Límites [Limitless Knowledge] Community Library. With the help of generous donations and volunteer support, we have been able to launch a new science program for our library users! 

The idea started with the thoughtful gift of a microscope and translated training materials from an engaged, science-oriented member of our Limitless Horizons Ixil community. Upon receiving it, our librarians were thrilled to put it to use, first familiarizing themselves with the equipment, then hosting a small, introductory workshop for the kids. Before no time, the kids were out collecting insects, plants, and any other small objects that they could find to bring to the library to inspect more closely.

Not long after this introduction, a group of volunteers arrived equipped with two more microscopes and three professional scientists. After a science-themed story hour, the kids got a more in-depth workshop from these professionals on how to use the new tools. Again, they enthusiastically collected anything and everything to investigate more closely, amazed at what they were seeing.

Time and time again, our library users have demonstrated to us their curiosity, energy, and aptitude in all that they do. We could not be more proud of them, and it is our honor to help foster their intellectual growth and exploration of new academic materials.

Additionally, our wonderful network (including you!) never ceases to amaze us with generosity, creativity, and engagement. Your contributions are a testament to this --thank you for being a part of this community and partnering with us. We can’t wait to expand this program with your support, helping the kids engage more profoundly with the world around them.

Rosa is a hardworking and talented artisan, weaving shawls and huipiles (intricate and colorful blouses). She is a mother of two living children, having lost two others as babies. Lacking the education and skills necessary for work in the formal economy, she relies on her weaving for income. Her husband had to go to the capital six hours away to find work and has little to send home after covering his living expenses. This leaves Rosa as the primary breadwinner and sole support for the family.

Rosa has a 10-year-old son named Wilmer. Although Rosa tried to teach Wilmer to read, she was unable to, as she lacked the necessary skills herself. Attracted by the twice-weekly story hours, Wilmer began visiting the Saber Sin Límites Community Library while in kindergarten. Over time, librarian David realized that Wilmer was struggling to learn to read for himself and began teaching him.

Fast forward to now: Wilmer is an avid reader, particularly enjoying books about history and stories from around the world. He continues to visit the library every day for the homework space, reference books, and reading clubs. In Wilmer's own words: "The library has a had a big impact on helping kids in Chajul learn to read and to be excited about learning!" He now wants to be a teacher to help other children to read, just as David taught him.

Illiteracy is pervasive in Chajul, and most parents are not able to teach their children to read, despite wishing that they could. Thanks to your generosity and support, the community library is breaking this cycle, ensuring that Wilmer’s generation and beyond are not only literate, but that they can play an active role in their children's education and their community's development.

On behalf of Rosa, Wilmer, and the Limitless Horizons Ixil team, thank you for being a part of our family and participating in our work. Transformational change is happening in Chajul, one generation at a time, because of supporters like you. Gracias por su apoyo! [Thank you for your support!]