Building Update 2020

From February 15-March 7, four volunteer teams made their way to Dangriga, Belize, to continue the preschool build. This was an exceptional group of volunteers dedicated to working long and hard hours in the hot Belizean sun to bring the power of education to the local community. 

The volunteers split into several service groups: Rebar benders, concrete slingers and cinderblock stackers, landscape development, and community outreach programs. Each team set hard to their task to continue the preschool build. 

On his first trip outside of the U.S., one teen volunteer marveled at the beauty of Belize and the wonderful community but was also stricken with sadness viewing the lack of resources available to the people of Belize. 

"I am so grateful for the things I have at home. My education is a given, with pretty good chances of completing high school. I've never struggled with the things the people of Belize do. I have so much... This trip has changed the way I see my life." 

By the end of the trip, we had accomplished many milestones getting us closer to the preschool's grand opening in August 2021. 

Over 280 tons of concrete mixed 

Over three miles of rebar bent

Over 700 cinderblocks laid 

Over 100 plumbing joints built

Tens of thousands of steps taken

One group of volunteers changed for life

Construction on the preschool will continue into the year with the local building team led by Santiago, lovingly known as "Bob." He will update Starfish Outreach on all the progress made in our absence.