In October of 2018, I attended the PSMLA Conference held in Pittsburgh. Of the many vendors there to support World Language teachers with wonderful resources, there was one table in particular that caught my attention. I noticed a colorful trifold poster board titled "The Pulsera Project" and saw a group of teachers digging through a pile of colorful woven bracelets. I stopped by the booth to see what it was all about and I was so inspired! After hearing their wonderful story of how they help to support Central American jobs and educational programs, I knew immediately that this was something I wanted to bring back to my district.
My high school students participated in the Pulsera Project during April 2019 and December 2019. With an overflow of support from my administrators, colleagues, and students, we were able to raise over $2,000 for families in Nicaragua and Guatemala. Not only was this a chance for students to learn about other countries and cultures, but it also introduced them to the concept of fair trade and emphasized the importance of giving back. It also allowed them to see how despite the many adversities some families in the world may experience, that their work ethic, pride, and love continue to prosper. Students were able to better appreciate their own ways of living and became motivated to help provide others with better opportunities.Student's have already been asking me if we will be participating with this non-profit in the future. The shift in their perspectives was incredibly evident and warmed my heart.