ATRAVES is an international non-profit that builds connections among communities, organizations and people in Nicaragua and internationally.
In loving memory of Lauren Wilkinson
It is with deep grief that we say goodbye to our dear friend and dedicated volunteer coordinator. Lauren was a courageous, adventurous woman who believed passionately in crossing cultural and geographic boundaries to create a better world for people living in poverty. She began her work with ATRAVES as a volunteer with the University of Michigan, eventually moving to Managua to serve full-time alongside Nicaraguan communities in their struggle for education, healthcare, and environmental justice. During the few hours that she wasn't guiding volunteers through service projects or working with the kids in Camilo Ortega, she loved to play with her kittens, turn her bedroom into a tropical yoga studio, snack on fresh bread from the local panaderķa, go dancing with friends, and promote vegetarianism. Her laugh was contagious, and being around her made you feel more alive. Lauren was a vital part of ATRAVES, and her generosity, perseverance, and tireless spirit will continue to guide our work. For our team and her Nicaraguan family, our volunteers, community members, and the children of Camilo Ortega, Lauren's life is a gift that we will cherish always. We miss you, Lauren, more than words can say, and we will remember and honor you. Lauren died unexpectedly of natural causes in Traverse City, Michigan on December 27, 2009, at the age of 26.
Those wishing to donate in Lauren's memory may do so here.
Casa de Salud William Galeano - September, 2009
The first phase of construction on the Casa de Salud project begins in September, with Engineers Without Borders Cal Poly San Luis Obispo building the retaining wall and foundation. We are seeking grants to complete construction in early 2010, and for clinical, educational and leadership development programs in this facility.
Earthwork for the Casa de Salud - August, 2009
ATRAVES broke ground on the site of the Casa de Salud in Barrio Camilo Ortega/William Galeano in early August. The earthwork is a massive undertaking with manual tools, and many community members have volunteered to help, as have three volunteers from California.
First Annual Board Retreat - July, 2009
For the first time ever, the boards and staff of ATRAVES came together for a strategic planning retreat in late July. We established deeper working relationships and bonds of solidaridad, created new priorities for our development and growth as an organization, and began the process of charting a plan for the future of our programs.
Health Month - May, 2009
With the tireless support of 24 volunteers from ATRAVES at the University of Michigan, many dedicated community volunteers, additional international volunteers, and the remarkable doctors Veronica Espinoza and Adalberto Davila, ATRAVES attended to more than a thousand patients in Camilo Ortega with free care, medicine and exams. Dozens participated in health workshops, and educational activities at Escuela H.D.