2021 Annual Report

“Those who want to sing, always find a song.”

I love the way this old Swedish proverb conveys both the determination and positivity that characterized 2021 for Casa Colibrí. The pandemic raged on, yet thanks to the commitment and resourcefulness of many, we were able to expand needed programs and services.

A huge part of this enhanced impact resulted from the selfless offer of Dr. Ellen Heinitz to provide healthcare services full-time at the Casa Colibrí clinic. Dr. Heinitz arrived in February and began delivering medical services at the clinic and out in the villages.

In a year when we were unable to send volunteer medical teams to Guatemala, Casa Colibrí met the healthcare needs of more Maya than ever before through Dr. Heinitz’s expertise, compassion, and tireless work ethic.

As village schools remained closed, children fell further and further behind. We expanded the Readers to Leaders program to meet the increased need. With the leadership of teacher Manuel Pascual Lorenzo, we broadened this reading enhancement program to 5 villages, giving 125 4th-6th grade children greater joy and confidence in their reading skills. The Niños Sanos program also expanded, bringing vitamin A and deworming medication to children in 3 additional villages.

Your partnership and amazing generosity have encouraged us to “always find a song.” THANK YOU! We are excited about the opportunities ahead as we work to strengthen the foundations of health and literacy—essential components for a bright future for the people we serve.

Jeannine Moreland
President