Why Guatemala
Guatemala is an amazing country, rich in culture and landscape. I fell in love with this beautiful place in 1997, the first time I traveled down there. The country had recently signed a Peace Treaty after a very brutal 36 year Civil War. Thousands of Mayans and advocates of the poor were tragically killed, or simply "disappeared". The more I learned about this country, the more I was intrigued and captivated. I went on holiday for two weeks and returned to the US with a deep sense that this new country would one day be my second home.
I returned to the world of software sales with a burning desire to return to Guatemala. I wanted to make a difference in the lives of those struggling in poverty. Within a year, I returned to Guatemala on my own and volunteered for Common Hope in Antigua. I lived with a local family in the beautiful colonial city of Antigua, studied Spanish in the morning and volunteered every afternoon. Eventually, I returned to the states and then returned again in 2001-2003, to launch the first ever satellite internet cafe in San Pedro La Laguna on the shores of lovely Lake Atitlan. Seven months later, I returned and directed a middle school in San Marcos La Laguna. Returning once again to the US, I obtained my MBA, launched Globally Minded and recently formed Globally Minded Works. I am passionate about helping the poor through business and education.
We are looking for people who are like minded, who desire to make a difference in the Land of Eternal Spring. Interested? Contact us! We'd love to hear from you.
XO - The Most Innovative and Green Computer!
One Laptop per Child has created the most innovative and green educational tool for children in the developing world: the XO computer. This computer is environmentally friendly - it uses the least amount of power, minimizes toxic waste, has a long life, is very durable and completely recyclable! This nifty computer can run on hand-cranked energy or solar - yes, powered by the sun - so any student, anywhere can use this computer and "learn learning" as the innovators envisioned. Imagine, a child in the remotest part of the earth could have access to technology; this will alter the course of education globally. These green-and-white, light weight, laptops are only $200 but the catch is that you must buy two - one for you and one to donate. Cool! If any of you readers buy an XO, consider donating to Globally Minded Works!