In late June I set out for my first trip to El Pital. On the first day I met Mirian and experienced firsthand the shine and intensity Ken had spoken of. We sat in the back of a pick up truck for over an hour hashing out her new role as the Mural Campesino Facilitator. She accepted all responsibilities with great pride. The next four days were spent facilitating design workshops, preparing the enormous bus and finally painting the mural.

From sunrise to sunset students led by Mirian painted the sides of the bus with diligence and excitement. For most students it was their first experience holding a paintbrush, but this minor detail didn't cause a moment of hesitation. They eagerly dipped their brushes into the paint with confidence.

The final mural design depicted the future goals of the students. Powerful fists reached out from the riverbed, holding symbols representing their future dreams. Symbols representing doctors, artists, teachers, electricians and futbolistas now emblazon "La Esperanza del Futura" as it barrels though the river valley of El Pital.

An inauguration celebration was held to acknowledge all assistants and their hard work, as well as to commemorate the benefactor of the bus, the Minke Stichting. Minke Zijlstra passed away shortly after visiting El Pital, and in her honor and memory her fiancé Allard Froon started a Dutch organization that helps fund education projects for the children in the river valley. "Minke's Bus," through the hard work of Allard and his board and volunteers, was the first contribution of the Minke Stichting.

Special thanks to Volunteer Annie Pelligrini who was instrumental in filming, painting and sharing her compassion and love for all. And special thanks to all the contributors for their financial contributions that helped make this program a reality!

Con Respeto,
Rachel McIntire