Hello everyone, I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate the members of Youth in Power for the extraordinary work that you have been doing. It was wonderful meeting some of you to discuss the issues faced by people in El Salvador. It was amazing that you were able to focus on others by providing a soccer ball and money for a high school scholarship in the region of St. Vicente. There are thousands of youth who want to go to high school there, however it is not possible because of the economic situation. They must work so that their families can eat. The prices of corn and flour have doubled there in the past year so people are struggling. One reason given is because a lot of corn is being grown worldwide and used for ethanol for cars thus affecting the cost for food corn.
Secondly, I would like to comment on the Community Forum that was held in Smiths Falls. Your efforts were amazing. I was so proud of Matt and Josh who were able to represent you guys and your desire for a healthy vibrant community in such a passionate way.
It was great to see Ryan's photos...what an artistic eye! You did a splendid job with the food and what a huge crowd you had. I have the newspaper article about the forum on the bulletin board of my office door at the college. Way to go everyone!
I look forward to meeting with you to show you pictures from the Salvaide delegation.
Keep up the wonderful work. I am extremely proud of your efforts!
Lisa Shaw-Verhoek, MSW
Co-ordinator
Social Service Worker Diploma Program
Algonquin College
Perth, Ontario