Copey Learning Center News

Ana Yancy, acting Copey Learning Center Director, and I enjoyed a short skype session last Friday. It is our practice to speak directly two or three times a month just to keep current on issues affecting the Copey Learning Center.

Ana Yancy confirmed the teaching at the center continues to go well even though the efforts to successfully recruit two qualified volunteer teachers to complete the final three months of the school year failed.

Now, Ana Yancy, and local volunteers, Celeste and Giovanni, are doing all the teaching required to meet the educational demands of the center.

And, I find it very gratifying to know Celeste is actively involved and supportive. Just as a point of reference, Celeste is well known both in Copey and among many Friends of Copey as one of the first participants of the “Pathway Project”. She and Noelia paved the way for the following seven students who have also traveled to America as participants in the “Pathway Project”.

Celeste represents one of the key purposes of the “Pathway Project”. All recipients are asked to return to Copey from their trip to America as enthusiastic and devoted student leaders. We encourage these “Pathway Project” recipients to promote education, be exemplary student role models, and encourage students to learn English.

After three years, she continues being a strong supporter of the center and according to my follow up, she is a tremendous help with the younger students.

Just imagine the influence Celeste and other recipients now have on young students with aspirations to be really good students and a strong desire to one day journey to America as a Pathway Project recipient.

Pending News!

I am still working on a couple very interesting projects that will hopefully benefit the Copey Learning Center in the near future. Last week, I indicated I would share information with you but the details are still being worked out before any official announcement.

Final Comments

Retired New York Yankee baseball pitcher, Mariano Rivera received today our country’s highest civilian honor, the US Presidential Medal of Freedom.

I am not a big New York Yankee fan but have admired and enjoyed watching the highly talented and skillful Rivera, a baseball icon, for many years until his retirement in 2013. 

Originally from a poor community in Panama, Rivera indicated in his acceptance speech today something extraordinary and relevant to “Friends of Copey” and the Copey Learning Center.

Upon his arrival from Panama (neighbor country to Costa Rica) to America in 1990, he could not speak any English. By the end of his second year in America with the help of friends, he learned English and it was a “life changing” experience. He is a tremendous advocate for education and specifically English education for the poor.

Today, Rivera is well known for his dedicated and committed support for schools with the mission to teach kids English including building schools in Panama and other locations.

Today, I learned that I have another reason for being very happy to have been a strong Mariano Rivera follower and supporter. Thank you Mariano! 

“There is a magnet in your heart that will attract true friends. That magnet is unselfishness, thinking of others first; when you learn to live for others, they will live for you.”      By Paramahansa Yogananda 

Tri-Cities Industry Kiwanis

The highly publicized Kiwanis presentation was conducted on August 30. Tri-Cities Industry Kiwanis calls on me to update our Kiwanis membership annually on the efforts and progress we are making as partners supporting the Copey Learning Center.  The attendance was very good and several in the audience had no awareness of “Friends”.

The reaction to the presentation was very positive. The membership was reminded that their involvement has been very much needed and has helped our success.

Kiwanians support “Friends” with personal donations when needed and the TCI Foundation provides excellent accounting service in support of the “Pathway Project” each year.

The presentation did have its problems. The prepared power point presentation did not work well on the Kiwanis equipment. Then, the special video message from “Pathway Project” students also failed to work. I will get the problems worked out and schedule a new date to share the information.

Copey Learning Center Update!   

At the Copey Learning Center all is going as well as possible. The efforts to obtain on short notice volunteer teachers to finish up the school year did not work out. Consequently, Ana Yancy, Celeste (2016 Pathway Project Recipient), and a community volunteer, Geovanny, are all dedicated to doing all the teaching the final three months of school.

Donor for Scholarship Idea Brewing!

A new donor has a great idea! I will share more next week after we have a little more time to work out some of the details. In fact, we are looking at a few ways to raise funds that could be used to support the three major “Friends”/donor fundraising activities (scholarships, Exec Director salary, and Pathway Project) we conduct annually. Do you have any ideas!  This is a great time to share with me any thoughts you may have. 

Over the past six years, “Friends” have donated (out of pocket) approximately 90% of all the funds we have used to support our three major activities requiring funds. We are looking at alternative revenue streams to help lessen the donor burden.

Your idea is valuable…so share it! As has been said many times over, “Friends” is not a huge money generating project. We just need funds to provide the basic support we feel is essential to helping the Copey Learning Center accomplish its mission. Never forget…”Friends of Copey” was a small idea that was not given much chance to make a huge difference.  Continue to be a “Magnet”.

“You can kiss your family and friends good-bye and put miles between you, but at the same time you carry them with you in your heart, your mind, your stomach, because you do not just live in a world but a world lives in you.”    By Frederick Buechner

Family Matters!

These final days of August have been filled with extraordinary highs and lows for the week.

On August 26, Aunt Katherine Johnson celebrated her 101st birthday and she was the star of several appearances in honor of this significant milestone. She continues to be blessed with enough good health to participate in a variety of events. “Long Live Queen Katherine!”  

On August 27, we remembered mom, Anne Elizabeth G. Broady. She passed away six years ago and her memory continues in living color. In her honor, the Anne G. Broady Scholarship Fund has supported the tuition cost for the equivalent of 100 Copey students.

On Wednesday August 28, my cousin Gwendolyn Huckstep passed away following a long battle with cancer. We were very close. I traveled to Virginia and spent the final days with Gwen, her sisters Ophelia and Rita, Rita’s husband Greg, along with nieces Sophia and Angelica, and nephew Anthony. Many of Gwen’s closest friends were at her beside as well.

Gwen and I enjoyed many visits and telephone conversations over time. One very memorable time spent with Gwen was during a 2014 road trip to visit Aunt Katherine and other aunts and cousins in eastern Virginia. Gwen really enjoyed meeting Aunt Katherine and regarded the photo taken with Aunt Katherine as one of her favorites. The road trip was special as it resulted in non-stop car chatter between us. 

Also, another family member passed away one day earlier. Richard Broady, age 87, resided in Roanoke, Virginia. Richard was a member of another branch of Broadys and I was not very acquainted with him.

The week of family matters ended on a very high note Friday. Grandson Maliek Broady began his final season of college football at the University of Nevada Reno (Nevada) Friday evening. Underdog Nevada took on Purdue University.

Maliek began his football career with Nevada as a “walk-on”. His determination and athletic abilities later earned him a full athletic scholarship. Although a true running back seeing limited action, last year his coach requested Maliek to transfer to the position of line backer as the team was in great need for more depth and athleticism according to head coach Norvell.

The transition from running back to line backer is very difficult, especially in D-1 College Level football.  But…Maliek successfully made the transition and was listed as a starter in the lineup Friday evening. In a recent feature sports story about Maliek and his mother Jessica, Head Coach Norvel says “Maliek is just an unselfish guy and he is now ready to be an “impact player”.  

Then, bringing a fitting end to the week, with only 3 seconds left in regular time, the Nevada place-kicker made a 56 yard field goal to defeat Purdue University. Nevada 34 * Purdue 31.

I should also note that Maliek helped his mother move his younger brother Mykel (middle) into the dormitory last week at Nevada. As one Broady closes out his college career at Nevada later in the year, another has begun his Nevada college career.

For those wondering if Mykel is also planning to play sports, we are not absolutely sure. He is as talented as his older brother and would be an excellent basketball prospect. However, due to a medical condition, his strong acadamic profile, and an emerging political interest, Mykel plans to go down a different path at Nevada. Photo is “move-in day” for Mykel. Their mom and all the rest of the Broady family and “Friends” stand proud of these young men….Broadys!

  Family Matters

“Hope lies in dreams, in imagination, and in the courage of those who dare to make dreams into reality.”    By  Jonas Salk

Monday morning on August 7, 2017,  I learned about the unfortunate event that took place the night before in Copey. That Monday morning, in that wonderful community of Copey, the towns people gathered in disbelief and sorrow as they could see in the daylight, the total devastation of their beloved church.

This iconic landmark sitting in the center of the community since 1928  touched every family in one way or another.

Now after two years, the remnants of the fire destruction are still visible and present. Nothing has been rebuilt and the Holy site continues to be a painful reminder to all.

Residents alone cannot afford to rebuild due to local economic challenges within the community. Then, the Catholic Church’s heirarchy may not see rebuilding the church to be a high priority.  And, Copey has only limited political influence available to push or support their interest.  These are all contributing factors resulting in delays and ongoing rebuilding uncertainties. 

We observe the second year anniversary of this tragic event. And, we (Friends of Copey) continue our support for the community and strive to be one of their consistent sourceS of “good news and hope”.

The current facility being used for the Copey Learning Center also faces future uncertainty. The facility is owned by the community group who loans the space to the Copey Learning Center. The facility may be shut down for rennovations in the near future. This closure will cause the Copey Learning Center to move without any suitable facility in Copey without the need for some constructional changes or improvements.

We “Friends” have not lost the vision of a new Copey Learning Center. We still believe we can get the new center built one day. We only postponed our efforts to avoid competing with the community’s effort to rebuild their church. The community wants their own “House of Worship” and they want their own educational facility to educate their children. However, this presents the community with a very difficult dilemma. 

The question has been asked…can one facility serve both religious and educational needs?

The response is a resounding NO! According to my information, a rebuilt Catholic Church and property would be essentially owned by the Catholic hierarchy… and not owned by the local community. There is a strong disinterest in placing the Copey Learning Center under the control of the Catholic Church.

Today, “Friends of Copey” pauses to reflect on the loss of this historical site in Copey which meant so much to the community. Soon, we start dreaming again about a new Copey Learning Center…the “promise of brighter futures” for this community full of hope.

“Let’s dream, Let’s imagine, Let’s hope and have the courage to achieve!”

“In my life I’ve learned that true happiness comes from giving. Helping others along the way makes you evaluate who you are.       By  Marla Gibbs

On August 30th, I will have my annual opportunity to provide a “Friends of Copey” presentation to my Kiwanis Club, Tri-Cities Industry (TCI-Kiwanis).

As a TCI member, this is a special time afforded me to share, honor, and thank the club’s membership for supporting the work of the “Friends of Copey”.

Kiwanis, an international/global organization with a 100 plus year history, is a natural partner for “Friends of Copey”.  The organization’s purpose is to improve the world by making lasting and positive differences in the lives of children.

Kiwanis volunteers working in over 7,000 clubs all over the world perform over 150,000 projects and nearly $100 million (US) annually to support communities worldwide serving children, one child and one community at a time. Copey is an international community being served by the “TCI Kiwanis and Friends of Copey” partnership. TCI Kiwanis’ support is important. Nearly 40% of the total TCI Kiwanis’ membership are “Friends” making personal donations to the scholarship fund, the Executive Director salary, and the “Pathway Project”.

At the club level, the TCI Kiwanis Foundation provides quality accounting services for the “Pathway Project” making it very easy for donors to participate and provides full accountability of the funds. 

This partnership places TCI Kiwanis among the elite Kiwanis Clubs (in my opinion) in America. Most Kiwanis Clubs limit their support to their own community needs. A fewer number of Kiwanis Clubs in America provide the direct and personal hands-on support of a specific need in another country on an ongoing basis.

TCI Kiwanis voted “Friends of Copey” to be an officially accepted project three years ago. As a TCI Kiwanis Past President and active member, my affiliation with “Friends of Copey” is unique. The involvement of other TCI Kiwanis members and the support of the TCI Foundation are both important elements of this partnership. But, the support from TCI Kiwanis goes even further.

Jefferson Elementary School, Richland WA

TCI Kiwanis Club supports a local elementary school with the Kiwanis K-Kids Program. This program allows for interaction between Jefferson Elementary students and Copey Learning Center students via Skype technology.

All these forms of TCI Kiwanis activities extend the club beyond the norm according to my personal assessment.  I am looking forward to the presentation with great excitement.

“Friends” are spread throughout the USA and in other countries. Support your local Kiwanis Club and please feel free to send a note of thanks to TCI Kiwanis for their support and partnership. I will glady include your message in my TCI Kiwanis presentation. 

Want a Vacation?

Go to beautiful Copey, Costa Rica! The Copey Learning Center is eagerly searching for the right candidates to help finish the final three months of this school year. Looking for a “crash course” in a different culture and language? Feeling adventurous and want to just do something just outrageous? Want to make a huge difference in a child’s life or even a huge difference in a community? Here is an opportunity to give…but you may learn that you are the one who is receiving the most.

I began my involvement with the Copey Learning Center by considering a volunteer teaching job in 2011 and 2012. I came very close but something extraordinary happened. The magic of the Copey community will move you to enjoly the love of serving. Think about a 90 day vacation and let me know soon. The need is now and the rewards are waiting.

Final Word…!

Thank you for the comments sent regarding the recent loss of home by fire Megan and her family experienced. They are getting a lot of support but they lost a great deal. “Friends” has provided some financial assistance.

Lately, I have realized failing to communicate much about the wonderful E&H College students who have volunteered to go to Copey. I would not have met Megan, or her sister and mother without Megan’s involvement in the “Pathway Project”. Megan volunteered to leave the comforts of her life, her family, and friends. By doing so, she gave much of herself and made a difference in the lives of kids in Copey.

Kara Stewart

I tend to focus mostly on the Copey students who travel to the US and perhaps not enough focus on the students who go to Copey.

However, each of the E&H College students who have journeyed to Copey have been very special students and have been outstanding representatives of the culture and caliber of students at E&H College.  Megan is certainly among this group.

And, we continue to keep a watchful eye on Kara Stewart, a 2018 E&H College student volunteer. Since her return from Copey in 2018, she has continued to be a high spirited superstar. I am just so impressed!

Best wishes to them all. 

“Don’t lose hope…when the sun goes down, the stars come out!”   

People in Need of Prayers!

It is very hard today to be upbeat and positive while we attempt to withstand the ongoing news of senseless murders perpetrated on innocent people who appear to have little to no connection to the shooters. Prayers to all the families, friends, and communities who are directly impacted by this evil behavior.

Additionally, I received news this weekend that one of our Emory & Henry College 2019 Pathway Project students had a very serious misfortune. Megan Mitten, her sister Theresa, and mother lost their home and all belongings due to a house fire last Wednesday.

Megan was at the Copey Learning Center last Spring as a volunteer. I met Megan, her sister and their mother during the annual reception held this past June. Both Megan and Theresa are E&H College students and I consider the whole family to be special to “Friends of Copey”. The college is assisting the family and are welcoming any help available. “Friends of Copey” will donate some funds to the family.

I will try to continue getting updates on Megan and her family while they work on rebuilding their lives and taking care of some of their basic needs for living.

Pathway Project 2019 Summary

As promised for several weeks, I want officially pronounce the closing 2019 Pathway Project for 2019. The project involving the students from Copey has three essential parts.

First and foremost the first part is to reward two or three Copey Learning Center students for their academic success and especially their English skills development. The reward is a safe and educational trip to America. So, eligible students must be selected.

The second part, “Friends of Copey” must raise the funds required for the planned expenses associated with travel, food, and lodging.

And finally, there are numerous other unfunded costs along with personal time and involvement that must be covered and coordinated. It is estimated that in-kind support almost equals the funded portion of the project.

Therefore, in summary the 2019 Pathway Project depends on very generous donors and extemely committed supporters for all of this to work and work well. Everyone is just “AMAZING” and all can enjoy the feeling of success and accomplishment. This is our 4th year and it feels like our best year as organizers and coordinators.

I have tried to send special notes of thanks to all of you who were on the front line of this effort. If I overlooked you, please let me know and I will be in touch with you.

My thoughts and attention are already pointed to next year’s Pathway Project. Most of the team has already conveyed and confirmed their involvement in key areas.

There is always room for one more donor of funds or contributor of time and service. One thing to seriously keep in mind is your attendance at next year’s annual reception. It is well worth attending and meeting the Copey students and other “Friends or Copey”.  For several of the first-timers this year, I know they enjoyed every minute.

So, please accept my heartfelt thanks as we all look forward now to 2020 Pathway Project.

“Start by doing what’s necessary; then do what’s possible; and suddenly you are doing the impossible.”   by  Francis of Assisi

Major Milestone!

Three hundred weeks have passed since the very first Post was issued in mid-December 2013. Last week, I issued Post number 300 to “Friends” and the tracking data verifies this fact. This is a major achievement on several levels. 

Who writes letters to their friends each week for more than five years? Well, I have and I can assure you each Post has been written and published with joy, honor, and respect towards all “Friends”. I hope you will celebrate with me this week as I pause to ponder this small milestone.

I thank all “friends” who opened the very first Post issued in 2013 and are still around to open #300. Truthfully, many “friends” have moved on and are not following the Posts each week. It is human nature to move on. But be sure, I am deeply grateful for those first “friends” and those who joined in later. You all have helped to keep this project alive and meaningful.

Help the Copey Learing Center

Last week I informed “friends” about the need to recruit a new Executive Director for the Copey Learning Center. Interesting enough, a few of you have sent notes to me. I encourage you to continue considering the potential this could be for a very unique experience.

Also, I learned this week the Copey Learning Center is recruiting volunteer teachers tocover the final three months of this school year; September, October, and November. So, I am calling for teachers (including retired teachers) to go to Copey and have the experience of a lifetime. This is an excellent opportunity to build your resume and develop/enhance language skills highlighting the Central American culture. And, if you are retired and want to add one more star in your career in education… go and enjoy some simple life…“pura-vida”.  

Time is very short so if there is an interest in leading or teaching…we must move quickly. September is just around the corner.

Copey…The Amazing Community.

Those who have actually spent time in Copey had these things to say:

“This entire experience [in Copey] has had such an impact on my life that I am forever grateful for. I made so many memories, met so many people, made so many new friends, saw God at work, and felt Him working in me.  I will forever cherish my time spent in the sweet, quaint, beautiful, peaceful, little town of Copey, and I will look forward to when I can go back! Thank you for everything, Copey.”  Kara S.

“When Arthur asked me to write something about our experience at the Copey Learning Center I didn’t know if I could put my feelings into words. I could use words like amazing, unforgettable, memorable, remarkable, and extraordinary, but it was so much more!”  Carolyn J.

“Copey will always hold a special place in our hearts.  Thank you for the wonderful opportunity! We will always cherish the memories made and the wonderful friends we made while visiting Copey.”  Tamarie M.

“The most amazing thing is the love and respect the people have for each other [in Copey]. They all work hard and no one seems to complain. The students have never complained or said they don’t want to do anything!”   Jane R.

“Pura Vida”