Ecuador School Takes Shape

Source:

Ninety-five volunteers just returned from Ecuador where they spent nearly two weeks helping to build an elementary school...

Ninety-five volunteers just returned from Ecuador where they spent nearly two weeks helping to build an elementary school on the CADE (Colegio Adventista de Ecuador) campus. Several doctors held medical and dental clinics for the people, some of whom lined up at 5 o'clock in the morning to get their chance at free health care. Another group held Vacation Bible School for the local children, which attracted as many as 150 children.

The volunteers weren't deterred by the 95-degree temperatures and high humidity - even those from places where it was 30 degrees below zero when they left. Project coordinators Merrill and Diane Zachary from Sandy Lake, Manitoba, brought several of their friends and neighbors with them. "They¹ve been bugging me for years to come," says Lloyd Ewashko. The heat was a welcome change from the cold temperatures and heavy snowfall in Canada.

Twelve-year-old Wesley Donesky spent his time on the construction site. When asked what he thinks about the Ecuadorian heat, he replied, "I think they just really need better schools here. It's really a great ministry we¹re doing for them."

Another large group from Auburn Adventist Academy is going back in March to complete the elementary school.

Date published: February 28, 2007