How Do You Spell S-u-s-t-a-i-n-a-b-i-l-i-t-y?

Carey and I want to make ourselves obsolete in Guatemala. Since we arrived here, an important aspect of our mission has been long-term sustainability. It goes back to the old saying, "Catch a fish for a man and you've fed him for a day; teach a man to fish and you've fed him for a lifetime." We've always known that Project Salud y Paz belonged in the hands of Guatemalans, not gringos, and so it is our hope that within a few years this will become a reality.

This is Jose. He has been with the project for several years now, first as a driver and registrar, then as a pharmacist, and now as the Team Host-in-Training. I have been training Jose to eventually take over the management of our mission teams, and so far he's done a great job. I guess it doesn't hurt that he's fluent in English, Spanish and K'iche.

This is Mary. She's one of the most natural teachers Carey and I have ever seen. She was the first teacher Carey hired and will eventually be the director of the preschool. Her love for the children and her community plus the speed at which she has learned English make her the perfect choice.

This is Janet and Wayne. When Carey and I leave in July they'll take over our positions. We are super lucky to have them and they're excited to get started. Wayne and Janet will continue training Jose and Mary in order that they'll be prepared to take over for them when they leave in a couple years. It's all about sustainability!

Salud y Paz,

Jay