2013

After an exhausting fall break spent assessing the needs of multiple communities around Nicaragua, and weeks of deliberation, the team chose to help a community in need construct a bridge just outside the city of Carazo, Santa Teresa. The team was both excited and motivated as they began this journey that will, God willing, bring hope to the community still stranded during long periods of severe inclement weather.

Over Fall Break, the 2012-2013 NDSEED team traveled to Nicaragua to assess seven sites in three different regions based on four essential criteria: community need, technical feasibility, level of community support, and availability of local resources. While each community presented an amazing display of support, our team was drawn to addressing the needs in the village of El Sol. ​

The small village of El Sol rests miles from the nearest major city Carazo. This city provides the people of El Sol with an abundance of opportunities with its markets used to purchase and sell local goods and its medical facilities. Unfortunately, during the region's rainy seasons, the river through the community is impassible, often for 24 hours to a week. Not only are the locals stranded from every resource found only in Carazo, the river also restricts over 70 students from attending their respective schools each day. This site is also a key location for over 1200 people in need of labor, education, and medical attention. 

​The team continued their fundraising efforts and begin the design process as they planned ahead for their six to eight-week summer endeavor in Nicaragua. The team began teaming up with the community in El Sol and they know the community was just as thrilled and thankful as the team was for the opportunities that will follow. Most importantly they are thankful this summer will empower the community to continue their efforts to improve the quality of life in and around their village.