As we step into the promising year of 2024, the MM Gives Back Committee extends heartfelt wishes for a joyful and successful year ahead. With immense gratitude, we share an uplifting update on the project that unfolded over the past six months — our efforts to create magic for the children of Soatá, Boyacá, Colombia.
Our fundraising efforts, ranging from a spirited 50/50 raffle at the MM office to your enthusiastic engagement through GoFundMe, culminated in a resounding success, allowing us to achieve our $3,500 goal.
If we were to sum up this experience in one word, it would be 'MAGICAL.' Your support brought immeasurable joy to 63 children and their families across four villages in Soatá, Boyacá, Colombia. We are proud to say we were able to provide toys, dental hygiene support, food, laughter and more.
While we could dive into every detail, we’ll try to capture the essence of these two extraordinary days.
Day 1: December 18 | Embarking on the Journey
The journey began at 4:00 am on December 18th, with our dedicated volunteers embarking on a six-hour trip from Bogota to Soatá, Boyacá.
Upon arrival, we collaborated with village leaders, overcoming challenges to ensure a seamless experience for everyone involved in the project.
Day 2: December 20 | Visiting the Villages of La Chorrera and El Ceibo
December 20th marked an important moment as volunteers gathered to pack 63 gifts, setting the stage for two transformative days. An interview at Andes FM Estero, a local Radio Station, drew attention to our project and another foundation, "Sonrisas Que Cambian Vidas," decided to join our efforts, leaving a lasting impact by contributing Crocs to two of our four events.
Following the radio interview we visited the villages of "La Chorrera" followed by "El Ceibo." Joyful laughter echoed as children played, savoured delicious meals, and participated in interactive learning sessions on dental hygiene with Dr. Julian Vigoya. The genuine smiles on their faces spoke volumes, a testament to the magic your contributions helped create
Day 3: December 21 | Visiting Hoya del Toldo and La Jabonera + Closing Event
Our awesome volunteers were up early to spread more joy in “Hoya del Toldo” where only six children reside. Can you believe they got electricity just a year ago? No internet yet, though. Despite challenges, the journey touched the hearts of often-forgotten children. With support from the additional foundation and the local police, we brought joy and hope, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
The day continued with a return to our last event, located in "La Jabonera," where festivities, food, gifts, and a meaningful session on dental hygiene by Dr. Julian Vigoya unfolded. Through games, activities, music, and educational sessions, we aimed to instill the values of sharing, community, and oral health in these four villages.
Together, we are changing the world, one small act of kindness at a time!
Until the next project!
MM Gives Back Committee
