Inter-Cultural Teen Delegation to Nicaragua
Flyer for the Intercultural Teen Delegation to Nicaragua
This is a unique opportunity to come together with other teens from around Cleveland and across the U.S. to learn about the struggles of Nicaraguan teens and their families for economic justice and human rights.
This is not a typical “mission” trip. Witness for Peace, the main organizer of this trip has invited us to go to Latin America not to “help” but to LEARN what the people there have to teach us.
For 10 years, IRTF has been taking local teens to Nicaragua to learn how our lives are intertwined with the people there. This has been an important part of strengthening our ties of friendship and solidarity. In addition to enriching your lives, these delegations are helping to create another generation for positive social change.
COST:
Although the cost may seem high for some ($1,100 delegation fee plus airfare, approximately, $700), in past years all students have been able to raise all their money. IRTF works with the students to do both personal fundraising and group fundraising projects. We believe that cost should never be a factor that prevents someone for participating. As long as they’re willing to work, we’re willing to work with them. It might take only 17 donations of $100 or it might take as many as 170 donations of $10. Either way, we can work together to reach the fundraising goal.
PROCESS:
Initial orientation meetings where parents are encouraged to attend with students are February 17th and March 18th, 2010. Subsequent meetings without parents will focus on fundraising, clarifying questions about the delegation, and learning about some of the social, economic, and political issues that will be covered on the delegation.
APPLICATION:
To reserve a spot on the delegation, please submit an application as soon as possible a $100 deposit payable to IRTF. After the $100 deposit is made, a balance of $1000 remains for the delegation fee, due in June.
WHO IS ELIGIBLE?
Rising 10th graders to graduating high school seniors who seek to learn about life in Nicaragua and impacts of U.S. policies and global economics. Spanish knowledge is helpful but not required.
Some of the stuff you do:
- Tour a maquiladora (assembly-for-export factory) and speak with management about labor rights & foreign investment.
- Speak with representatives from the U.S. Embassy.
- Visit schools and health centers and meet with community leaders.
- Enjoy the beautiful lakes, mountains, and beaches of Nicaragua.
- Spend four days living and working with Nicaraguan families in rural communities.
- Learn about the crushing impacts of World Bank and International Monetary Fund policies on the Nicaraguan people and the struggle for debt relief.
- Receive training in how to BE A TEENAGER FOR SOCIAL CHANGE!
Please feel free to call or email us with any questions. We look forward to hearing from you.