Peru 2004
"An International Effort"
by Hank Chardos, Executive Director and Founder
This past August ten individuals traveled to Zorritos, Peru, five youths and five adults. For some it was a trip that had been taken twice before. Whether it was the first, the third or the thirty-third trip to Zorritos, the trip promised to be a once in a lifetime experience.
Father Don Gorski had identified several families with housing needs, for some it was the construction of an entire home, for others it was an addition to the existing home. In the true spirit of Home Works, there were always young boys who labored with us. Most of these boys were the same boys who serve as altar boys to assist Father Don. More important than the actual construction of the homes was the time spent with the young boys. Time spent in laughter, time spent in song, time spent in the blazing sun, and time spent with the concluding house blessing led by Father Don. It is time for many of the boys to experience a father figure in their lives.
Each day is uniquely different. As Father Don says, "Expect the unexpected." One such day was called "El Compo." With the guidance and compass of Father Don, the four-wheel drive truck traveled inland. It was an ever bumpy ride over dried-out river beds and ditch-riddled trails. The trip lasted for about two hours. Along the way men, women, and children would be waiting at certain spots to jump on board for the final destination. How many people knew when the truck was coming is still a mystery! There is no visible means of communication to coordinate the timing of the ride, yet individuals were seemingly very acceptant of the arrival of the truck.
The trip continued, until in the middle of nowhere, there stood a church at which people had gathered. Being the only priest, Father Don might "visit" the church once a month. The visit was an opportunity for Father Don to minister to those who came together. A truly remarkable experience of the trip was the feast that was prepared by those who had so little, for Father's visit was so special and important. The ride back to Zorritos was just as bumpy, but the experience of "El Compo" made one oblivious to the terrain.
Eleven individuals are scheduled to return to Zorritos, August 3rd through August 15th. Please consider donating children and adult multivitamins. A special plea is extended for the donation of a colorful playground set. A generous donation has already been received to provide for the transportation of the playground set. What is still needed is the actual playground set.
Only funds that are so designated are applied toward the efforts in Zorritos, Peru. Thanks for you and your continued support.
