In addition to our main programs, LHI also collaborates with various organizations in the community of Chajul on other projects and initiatives:
Philanthropiece Scholars
In October 2011 LHI celebrated its first class of high school graduates. They are among the top students in their classes, yet high school graduates in Chajul have very little or no ability to attend university. In addition, for the small percentage that do graduate from high school, very few job opportunities exist in their home community. Philanthropiece is addressing this challenge by implementing an integrated program approach where exceptional LHI graduates are trained in sustainable community development and receive a scholarship to attend University weekend studies. The Philanthropiece Scholars are training and working in their focused area of community development including Sustainable Agriculture, Literacy, Environment, Appropriate Technology, and Health.
Safe Stoves
Almost every family in Chajul cooks over an open fire inside the home with little to no ventilation, producing a smoke-filled living environment. The dependence on open cooking fires compromises health in a number of ways. To address this challenge, LHI has partnered with the Philanthropiece Foundation, Fundación Ixil (Ixil Foundation), and several local and international organizations to promote and construct safe, clean-burning stoves which replace open cooking fires and improve the health and safety of families, as well as the environment. Currently, LHI staff is working in a consulting capacity to help train students in Philanthropiece’s Scholars program to take over management of this initiative.
Community Enterprise Solutions Kiosks
In partnership with Community Enterprise Solutions and Philanthropiece, LHI has brought a community health-promoting kiosk to Chajul. This kiosk provides access to useful products that can’t be found elsewhere in Chajul. Purifying water filters, solar-powered lamps, reading glasses, energy efficient light bulbs, and vegetable seeds are all available through the kiosk at fair market prices. Kiosk campaigns take place on a monthly basis at the LHI Community Center. Currently, LHI staff is working in a consulting capacity to help train students in Philanthropiece’s Scholars program to take over management of this initiative.