A small team of vital volunteers, along with Starfish Outreach, headed back to Dangriga, Belize, at the beginning of February to check on the progress of the preschool building and get their hands a little dirty helping.
Specific people were called on to assist in this portion of the build because of their specialized skill sets. We had two general contractors, one electrician, one plumber, one pastor, and three supportive spouses leading the charge for administrative tasks, material purchases, and making all the meals for the building team. Although this seems like a small group, it was a whole construction crew once they joined the local Dangriga build team. The construction site was a buzz with saws, hammers, mixers, drills, and the like working tirelessly from early morning until close to sunset.
After three weeks, the next phase of the build was underway — the roof's frame was on, and the completion of the roof is in sight. All during the excitement of construction progress, across the way in their small classroom, the currently attending preschool students look on with anticipation of their new school opening soon.
During the visit, the Starfish Outreach volunteer group took a small break to participate in the School Pride Parade with the Starfish preschool class. The parade is an annual community event that has been sorely missed due to COVID, but this was the year the parade could return. Students from schools all over the Dangriga community decorate floats and banners for the parade and march together, showing their appreciation for their schools, teachers, and education. It was quite the event and a perfect way to retreat from the construction site.
The same team and many more volunteers will return to Dangriga in July and August of 2023 to continue construction on the first floor preschool. If you want to volunteer for the upcoming trip, or donate towards the construction of the preschool and community center click the Registration or Donation links on our Home page.
As always, your love, prayers, and financial support continue to make this preschool build a possibility.