Empowering Mayan Communities: Grassroots Fundraiser for Families in Guatemala

### Grassroots Organization Hosts Fundraising Concert

Paso Por Paso, a grassroots organization based in Orillia, is making significant strides in supporting low-resource Mayan families in Guatemala. In their latest effort to raise funds and awareness, the organization has announced a concert fundraiser, titled “Mi tierra linda/My beautiful land,” scheduled to take place on Sunday, September 17 at St. Paul’s Centre in Orillia. The event will feature the enchanting talent of Guatemalan-born, Toronto-based singer-songwriter Paula Sofia.

### A Concert for a Cause

The “Mi tierra linda” fundraising concert will take place from noon to 3 p.m., offering attendees a mesmerizing live performance by Paula Sofia and a delicious Guatemalan lunch from El Quetzal Restaurant & Bakery. Tickets for this event are priced at $50 per person and include not only the entertainment and meal but also the opportunity to participate in a silent auction and purchase artisanal Guatemalan products. It is worth noting that all proceeds will directly support Paso Por Paso’s education, community development, and infrastructure programs, including the reconstruction of four classrooms at the Tierra Linda school.

### Supporting Mayan Families during Challenging Times

Paso Por Paso’s dedication to the well-being of Mayan communities in Guatemala was further solidified by a visit from six of the organization’s directors in February. During their visit, they had the opportunity to meet with families, students, and Natün, the local partner in Guatemala, to assess the impact of Paso Por Paso’s programs in Tierra Linda. The presentations made by Natün program directors and staff shed light on the challenges faced by the region’s residents during the pandemic.

The Panajachel area, a significant economic hub reliant on tourism, experienced a severe downturn due to travel restrictions, leaving many residents with limited access to work opportunities. Additionally, the absence of viable online learning options disrupted education for a significant portion of the population. In such trying times, Paso Por Paso and Natün provided critical support to these communities. Although the economic situation is gradually improving, full recovery will undoubtedly take time. The fundraiser aims to bridge the gap in financial assistance required for the town and its residents to regain stability.

### A Symbolic Welcome and Expanding Support

During their visit to the Tierra Linda school, the directors of Paso Por Paso were greeted with a heartwarming sight. The entire school and community came together, cheering and showering them with confetti as a token of their gratitude for the organization’s past support. The school principal warmly welcomed and expressed gratitude to the group, later providing them with a tour of the facility. The tour emphasized the pressing need for reconstruction of four classrooms, as the decaying roofs rendered them unusable during the six-month-long rainy season.

Doris Middleton, the president of Paso Por Paso, reflected on the organization’s commitment to the Maya families they support. Following the directors’ visit to Guatemala earlier this year, she highlighted the increased awareness of the diverse needs within these communities. The directors, driven by their dedication to empowering these Mayan families, explored various means of fundraising in addition to their usual appeals. The “Mi Tierra Linda” event at St. Paul’s Centre presents an opportunity for the organization to enhance their funding and continue making a significant impact on these communities in the upcoming year.

### Encouraging Support and Solidarity

Paso Por Paso’s efforts are commendable, as they strive to uplift and empower Mayan communities facing numerous challenges. By attending the “Mi tierra linda” fundraising concert, individuals can contribute to this noble cause while enjoying the soulful melodies of Paula Sofia. Purchasing tickets for this event can be done conveniently through Paso Por Paso’s website at pasoporpaso.ca/mi-tierra-linda-event.

The plight of these Mayan families should not be overlooked, especially in a time of global uncertainty. The pandemic’s impact on vulnerable communities is a reminder of our shared humanity and the responsibility we hold to extend kindness and support. Paso Por Paso exemplifies the Canadian spirit of compassion and solidarity, reminding us that together, we can create positive change and make a difference in the lives of those who need it most.