Kara traveled to Tarija, Bolivia in November-December 2014 to visit the progress of the Agua es Vida water project and provide additional aid. The project, managed through ChildFund International, was nearing completion with the well, pumps, tanks and majority of pipes installed. Kara toured the construction sites, met with project partners, and attended welcoming ceremonies from the communities who were grateful to finally have access to clean water. The completion of the project will help over 700 residents across multiple neighborhoods.

1. Kara2Mijael
Trip to Tarija, Bolivia
Agua es Vida Project Progress
November – December 2014
Kara Patrovic
http://www.kara2mijael.org

2. Background
My name is Kara Patrovic and I am a 17 year old Senior at Miller Place High School in New York. Since I
was 9 years old, I have been sponsoring a young boy, Mijael Derek Guerero Mercado, through
ChildFund International. Mijael lives in a very poor neighborhood in Tarija, Bolivia. Mijael is now 8
years old. All this time, I have kept in touch with him and his family.
In 2011-2012, I fundraised so that I could finally meet Mijael and bring him, his family, and his
community much needed toys, clothes and supplies. With great support from family, friends, my
church, teachers, local businesses and organizations, I passed my fundraising goal and I traveled to
Tarija and met Mijael! I was also able to help an additional 55 children in Mijael’s community.
During that trip, I was brought to Barrio 27 de Mayo and met with village elders, who pleaded with me
to try and help get the village access to clean water. One village elder pleaded, “Agua es Vida” (“Water
is Life”). I was moved and I promised them that I would try. Since that time, I have been fundraising
constantly. I created the Agua es Vida Project and remotely managed a well system construction
project to bring the barrio clean water. The project is now fully funded and almost complete!
I decided to return to Tarija in 2014 and visit the well construction sites and provide additional aid to
Mijael, his family, and communities. This journal documents the fundraising, Agua es Vida project and
management, preparation for and events of that trip. It also serves to highlight the global water crisis.
Thank you to all who have helped with donations of money, clothes, supplies, time, and
encouragement. The people of Tarija are forever grateful as we, together, have changed their lives
forever and have made the world a better place!!! 2

3. Contents
3
Sponsoring Mijael 4
2012 Mission Trip & The Plea for Water 6
Agua es Vida Project – Creation & Initiation 8
Agua es Vida Project – Progression & Status 21
Welcoming & Gratitude Receptions & Dedications 37
Receptions & Tours – ChildFund in Tarija 44
Receptions & Tours – Other Needy Communities 55
Providing Aid to the People of Tarija 63
Time with Mijael, His Family & Friends 69
Accomplishments & Next Steps 79
Appendix A – More About Tarija 87
Appendix B – Detailed Fundraising Descriptions 98
Appendix C – Agua es Vida Kickoff & Thank You Presentation 109
Appendix D – Proclamations, Awards, Dedications & Media Coverage 122
More Information 137

4. Mijael Derek Guerero Mercado
Through the Years of Sponsorship
Have sponsored Mijael
since 2006, when he was
newborn and I was 9!
4

5. Mijael’s Extended Family
Mijael
Yuly
(Mijael’s Mom)
5
Effron
(Mijael’s Dad)
Sandra
(Mijael’s Grandma)
Venezia (Mijael’s
Great-Grandma)
Angelo (Mijael’s
Great-Uncle)
Estella (Mijael’s
Great-Aunt)
Andrea (Mijael’s
Great-Aunt)
Nataniel
(Mijael’s Brother)
Fernanda (Mijael’s
Second Cousin)
Luciano (Mijael’s
Second Cousin)
Nicoletta (Mijael’s
Second Cousin)
Kara
Mary
(My Mom)
Bob
(My Dad)

6. • In 2012, I decided to travel to Tarija to finally meet Mijael
• Created the Kara2Mijael Non-Profit Organization as a fundraising focal point
– 11 Separate Fundraisers Throughout the Year
– 8 Separate Media Articles Over the Year
– Created Kara2Mijael Facebook page to use as a Website for Communication
– Created E-mail Distribution & Mailing Lists for Communication
• Target Fundraising Goal: $5,400 – Raised $6,200!
• Used Additional Funds to:
– Provide Toys and Supplies To An Additional 55 Children
– Contribute to 2 Healthcare Fundraisers for Children Needing Surgeries
• Spent a lot of time with Mijael, his family and community
• Volunteered at Several ChildFund Community Centers
• While in Tarija, I Was Brought to Barrio 27 de Mayo
– Met with Village Elders, who pleaded for access to clean water
– One Village Elder pleaded, “Agua es Vida” (“Water is Life”)
– Promised the Barrio I would not forget them
• Returned from the trip and created the Agua es Vida Project
2012 Mission Trip
6

7. 2012 Trip – Barrio 27 de Mayo
The Plea for Water
7

8. Agua es Vida Project
Creation & Initiation
8
Expansion of Kara2Mijael To
Create The Agua es Vida Project &
Create the Communication & Fundraising
Necessary To Formulate Its Initiation

9. Agua Es Vida Project
Realizing the Need
“Por favor…Agua es vida” (“Please…Water is life”)
– Barrio 27 de Mayo elder pleading for help getting water (8/21/2012)
• Barrio 27 de Mayo (Neighborhood of May 27)
• Met with Barrio Elders & President
• Community of 366 families, >700 people
• Living in Tents, Huts, Shacks
• Had No Running Water in Households
• Only Access to Water was a Central Water Spigot
– Turned on 1 hour/day Monday – Friday
– Water Truck (cisterna) on weekend days
• Pleading for a Clean Water Source – Well & Tanks
• Very Emotional Moment
• Committed to the Barrio, “I will not forget you.” 9

10. HOW TO APPROACH A SOLUTION
• Initial discussions with barrio elders put cost at $5,400
• Returned from the trip and reflected on approaches & solutions
• Many obstacles:
– Could not manage project on-site
– Had no contacts that could manage it on-site
– How could I raise that much money…again?
• Began researching solutions to providing water
• Became aware of how prevalent the water
problem was throughout the world (Global Water Crisis)
• Focused Kara2Mijael on helping solve the Global Water Crisis
• Created the Kara2Mijael Agua es Vida Project
• Decided to try to build 2 wells (cost increase to $11,000)
• Planned the first sets of fundraisers & presentations
• Researched International Aid Organizations that could help
Agua es Vida Project
Creating a Solution
10

11. The Global Need for Water
• 2.3 BILLION people do not have access to full sanitation
– No plumbing, toilets or showers
• 800 MILLION people without access to ANY clean water
– 1 out of every 9 people in the world
• Every 15 seconds, a child dies from a water borne illness
– Causes: Lack of clean water
– Water is filled with diseases such as cholera and e coli
– 900,000 people die each year in India alone (source: WHO)
Agua es Vida Project
Understanding The Global Water Crisis
11

12. FINDING A PARTNER INTERNATIONAL AID ORGANIZATION
• Contacted 19 international aid organizations seeking their help
• Had no success with any of the organizations because they:
– Did not operate in Bolivia (Bolivia & US have strained relations)
– Did not have scale to take on the project
– All encouraged me to keep the faith and keep trying
• ChildFund became aware of the project
• Though outside what ChildFund usually does, they agreed to
take the on-site project management task on
• Worked the relationship with ChildFund, which:
– Provided on-site project management
– Acted as a liaison for communication among the groups
• On-site Project Planners from ChildFund worked with
Kara2Mijael, Agua es Vida design engineers &
contractors and Tarija government officials
Agua es Vida Project
Finding A Partner Organization
12

13. SCOPE & COST INCREASE
• Tarija government decided to increase the scope of the project:
– To make the implementation more efficient
– Designed as part of a larger system that would support more residents
– Would be expandable as the barrios grew
– Would be more permanent than the original design solution
• Cost now increased again to $25,500
• Knew I would need to increase:
– Local communication to get my message out
– Number of fundraisers to ensure all funds were provided
• Created 4 additional fundraisers in the coming 4 months
• Project start timing dictated the need to start the project in 2
months (in order to work around the Tarija weather patterns)
• Entered into agreement with ChildFund & Tarija:
– Forward a down payment of the cost (~50%)
– Commitment from Kara2Miajel to ensure the balance to be forwarded
Agua es Vida Project
Scope & Cost Increase
13

14. PROJECT PLAN DEVELOPED
• Project to start by August 2014; To complete before January 2015
• Working around Tarija weather patterns (dry/rainy season)
• Well System Engineering & Construction firm selected
• Agua es Vida Well System Vigilance Committee created
– ChildFund International
– ChildFund Bolivia On-site Project Managers
– Well System Engineering & Construction firm
– Affected barrio Elders
– Tarija government officials
– Tarija utility providers (water & electricity)
– Kara2Mijael
• Project logistics worked via many meetings & teleconferences
– Budget & Funding concerns, Construction permits, etc.
• Project Planned: Start: August, 2014; Complete: November, 2014
• Was invited by barrios & ChildFund for Project Completion
Agua es Vida Project
Developing a Project Plan
14

15. Planning the Trip & Raising Money & Awareness
• Planned the Trip (flights, hotels, itinerary)
• Coordinated Multiple Fundraisers
• Coordinated Donations of Toys & Supplies
• Expanded Communication:
– New Website – http://www.kara2mijael.com
– New Crowdfunding Website – http://www.GoFundMe.com
– Engaged Civic Organizations and School Service Organizations
(Presentations, Sponsorship Partnerships, Fundraiser Assistance)
– Enlisted Volunteers (Teams to Help Fundraise & Work Events)
– Solicited Local Businesses (Donations, Communication, Fundraisers)
– Meetings with Media Outlets (Newspapers, Local Websites)
– Formalized Information Distribution (Distribution Lists, Mailings, Flyers)
• Created Project Planning & Implementation Organization
– Search for a Partner International Aid Organization
– On-site Project Management, Contractors, Government Officials
2014 Mission Trip & Agua es Vida
Expanding Kara2Mijael
15

16. 2014 Mission Trip & Agua es Vida
Fundraising
 Friends & Family Fundraiser
 St. Anthony’s Church Fundraiser
 Local Newspapers Fundraiser
 Civic Organization Presentations
 Booths at Local Fairs & Events
 Fundraising Flyers on Cars
 Miscellaneous Selling
 Soccer Refereeing Proceeds
 Babysitting & Dog Watching
 Lawn-Mowing Proceeds
16
 Applebee’s Pancake Breakfast
 SB Soccer Concession Stand
 Wendy’s Community Night
 PL Cinemas Movie Madness
 Applebee’s Car Wash
 Country Fair Amusement Park
 Community Yard Sale
 Recyclable Cans & Bottles
 Kara2Mijael Website
 GoFundMe Website
• Held Many Fundraisers Throughout the Year
• See Appendix for Details of Fundraising
• Exceeded Fundraising Goal of $30,000 (Wells + Trip)
Fundraisers:

17. 2014 Mission Trip & Agua es Vida
Communication – Website
• Created & maintain website:
http://www.kara2mijael.org
• Central location for all
Kara2Mijael activities
• Communicates the mission,
goals, project initiation and
status, photos, and
fundraising efforts of
Kara2Mijael
• Communicates the Global
Water Crisis
• Acts as convenient tool for
online crowdfunding
• Very successful with many
visits and excellent source of
fundraising & awareness
17
http://www.Kara2Mijael.org

18. 2014 Mission Trip & Agua es Vida
Communication – Website (cont’d)
18
http://www.Kara2Mijael.org

19. 2014 Mission Trip & Agua es Vida
Communication – Website (cont’d)
19
http://www.Kara2Mijael.org

20. 2014 Mission Trip & Agua es Vida
Communication – Media
20
Refer to Appendix for
Detailed Media Coverage

21. Agua es Vida Project
Progression & Status
21
Progression of the Development,
Management and Implementation
Of The Kara2Mijael
Agua es Vida Project

22. Well System Construction
Agua es Vida Component Design
22
April – August 2014

23. Well System Construction
Agua es Vida Project Kickoff
• Contractors, Engineering Firm
representatives, Barrio Elders, and
ChildFund Bolivia representatives
(representing Kara2Mijael) meet to
sign final agreements
• The presentation of food is a
traditional gesture of welcome and
good luck
Please refer to Appendix for full
presentation sent to Kara2Mijael
showing the Agua es Vida Kickoff and
Thank You’s from Tarija Barrios.
23
Kickoff Occurred mid-August 2014

24. Agua es Vida
Barrios Send Their Thanks
24

25. Well System Construction
Sites Preparation & Digging Start
25
August – September 2014

26. Well System Construction
Barrio 27 de Mayo Tank Progress
26
September – November 2014

27. Well System Construction
Some Completed Components
27
November 2014

28. Well System
Ribbon Cutting & Dedication
28
Trip to Tarija
November 2014

29. Well System
Ribbon Cutting & Dedication (cont’d)
29

30. Well System Tour
Through the Affected Barrios
30

31. Well System Tour
Main Well & Pumps & Power
31

32. Well System Tour
Barrio 27 de Mayo Tank & Pipes
32

33. Well System Meetings
Engineering Firm Presentation
• Met with the Engineering Firm that
designed well system components and
oversaw on-the-ground construction
• On-site Project Manager had donated
his time to the project as a sign of his
gratitude to Kara2Mijael
33

34. Well System Meetings
Vigilance Committee
Met with the Well System Vigilance
Committee to discuss current status
of Agua es Vida Project and future
needs as the barrios expand
34

35. • Well (Poza) – Complete
– Drilled down 186M (610 ft.)
• Pumps (Bombas) – Complete
– Main Pump on well shaft at 89M (292 ft.)
• Pump Power Station (Electricidad) – Operational
– Power Station Building almost complete
– Power not yet on continuously (awaiting Environmental Certificate)
• Pipes (Pipas) to Holding Tanks – Complete
– Many were hand excavated by barrio residents
• Holding Tanks (Tanques) – Complete
– Primary concrete holding tank located in Barrio 27 de Mayo
– Barrio Santiago and Barrio 4 de Abril to utilize well system now
– Other plastic tanks exist throughout 2 Other barrios
Agua es Vida Project
Progress & Status
35

36. • Pipes (Pipas) to Spigots – Partially Complete
– Barrio residents donating their time to do local digging
• Spigots (Pilettas) – Not Complete
– Currently planned: ~16 throughout 3 barrios
– Will be complete once full well system is operational
• Environmental Certificate – Pending
– Awaiting Environmental Study Review by Tarija government
– Once issued, full power will be sent to the Power Station
– At that time, Well System will be fully operational
• Expansion of Well System Into Other Barrios – Pending
– Barrio Santiago and Barrio 4 de Abril to utilize well system now
– Other barrios to use well system in the future
– Very long term goal is construction of a Water Tower
– Very expensive; No funds available currently
Agua es Vida Project
Progress & Status
36

37. Receptions & Dedications
37
Receptions & Dedications
To Welcome Kara2Mijael and
Show Gratitude For Providing
Aid And The Water Well System

38. Welcoming Ceremony
Tarija Airport
38

39. Reception
Neighborhood Associations (FEDJUVE)
• Tarija Department Federation of
Neighborhood Associations (FEDJUVE)
• Recognition of Honor Proclamation
presented by the People’s Mayor,
representative of the 190,000 residents
of Tarija
39

40. Reception & Dinner
Barrio 27 de Mayo
• Reception of Gratitude hosted by Barrio 27 de Mayo
• Also attended by Barrios Santiago and 12 de Abril
• All 3 communities will benefit from the water wells
• Presented with a Proclamation of Honor plaque
• The people living in the barrios were so grateful – they
all loved taking pictures!
40

41. Reception & Dinner
Barrio 27 de Mayo (cont’d)
41

42. Reception & Dinner
Barrio 27 de Mayo (cont’d)
42

43. Dinner of Gratitude
Barrio 27 de Mayo
• Celebrated Thanksgiving Dinner with Barrio 27 de Mayo
• Barrio wanted to show thanks with a personal dinner
• Tributes presented to Kara2Mijael
• Barrio served a large pork dinner that they rarely can have to
show how grateful they were
• Located at a Daycare Center that I visited during the 2012 Trip
• Shared American Thanksgiving traditions with the barrio and
communicated how similar this dinner was
43

44. ChildFund Receptions & Tours
44
Receptions & Tours
At ChildFund Community Centers
And Administrative Offices

45. ChildFund in Tarija
• Originally Christian Children’s Fund
• 8 Proyectos (Projects)
• Implemented via Community Centers
• Community Centers provide:
– Food
– All day activities
– Library
– Healthcare facility
– Infant care
– Nursery School
– Some provide Elementary School
• ~1,700 kids directly sponsored
• ~3,600 kids benefit from services
45

46. Reception & Tour
ChildFund Proyecto Tabladita
46

47. Reception & Tour
ChildFund Proyecto Tabladita (cont’d)
47

48. • Family entrenched in poverty
• Mom is a street beggar
• Dad is unemployed, but
performs menial jobs for the
government @ $1,900/year
• Friends & family told her,
“You’ll always be poor.”
• Used that as opportunity to
prove them wrong
Young Leader – Carla
ChildFund Proyecto Tabladita
48
• Concentrated on her schoolwork
• Currently attending university, will graduate in 2015
• 2 Younger siblings have entered university also
• 1 younger sibling finishing high school & will attend university
• Has used opportunities and personal drive to break the cycle

49. Reception & Tour
ChildFund Proyecto Guadalquivir
49

50. Reception & Tour
ChildFund Proyecto Nuevo Amanacer
50

51. Reception & Tour
ChildFund Proyecto Nuevo Amanacer
51

52. • Lives in poverty
• Has schooling available to him
• Had dropped out of high school
• Went to Argentina to work
• Realized his true passion was to teach
• Over time, came back to Tarija
• Returned to and is finishing high school
• Will be attending university next year
• Very artistic – art, poetry, music, dancing
• Performed poetry recital and traditional dances
• Mentors younger children in this Community Center
• Presented me with a traditional dance outfit as a gift
• Taught me a traditional dance and performed it with me
• Has used opportunities and personal drive to break the cycle
Young Leader – Yilmar
ChildFund Proyecto Nuevo Amanacer
52

53. Reception & Tour
ChildFund Administrative Office
53
Administrative Management of:
• 8 Community Centers (Proyectos)
• 1,700 kids directly sponsored
• 3,600 kids benefit from services

54. Reception & Tour
ChildFund Administrative Office
54

55. Receptions & Tours
Very Needy Barrios
55
Receptions & Tours
At Some of the Most Needy
Communities in Tarija

56. Reception & Tour
Barrio 27 de Mayo
56

57. Reception & Tour
Barrios Santiago & 12 de Abril
57

58. Reception & Tour
Barrio 4 de Julio
58
Six People Live in
these 2 rooms

59. Reception & Tour
Barrio Corazon de Jesus
59

60. Reception & Tour
Barrio Corazon de Jesus (cont’d)
60

61. Reception & Tour
Barrio Corazon de Jesus (cont’d)
61
9 People live in this one room
(Mom, Dad, 7 young children)
4 People live in this one room
Only clean water source -
turned on for 2 hours/day

62. Barrio Corazon de Jesus
Proclamation & Request
• Poorest of the barrios visited
• Very little food or water
• No aid organization representation
• Very limited gov’t representation
• Kara2Mijael presented with:
 Proclamation of Gratitude
 Formal Request for help securing aid
organization representation
• Motivation for the creation of the
Barrio Voice Project
62
“No food, No water, No healthcare, No voice.”

63. Providing Aid to Tarija
63
Visited Several Tarija Locations
Offering Aid That Had Been Donated
By Hometown Local Donors or
Purchased in Tarija Markets

64. Providing Aid
To The People of Tarija
• Prior to the Trip, I Solicited My Hometown
Community For Donations of Toys, School Supplies,
and Healthcare Products
• Local Community Members and Businesses
Responded Very Generously
• Traveled with an Additional 150 pounds of Toys and
Supplies (3 full suitcases)
• Purchased Additional Items in Bulk in Tarija Markets
• Provided Toys to an Additional 125 children in a
ChildFund Community Center and a Needy Barrio
• Provided School Supplies and Healthcare Products to
Very Needy Barrios
64

65. Providing Aid to Tarija
Organizing the Toys & Supplies
65

66. Toys for 50 Kids!
Barrio Corazon de Jesus
66

67. Toys for 75 Kids!
ChildFund Proyecto Guadalquivir
67

68. Follow-up Visit: Needed Supplies
Barrio Corazon de Jesus
68

69. Time with Mijael
Time with Mijael,
His Family & Friends
69

70. Time with Mijael
His Extended Family
70

71. Time with Mijael
End-of-School-Year Performance
• ChildFund sponsorship affords Mijael
the opportunity to attend good public
school, including long transportation
• School Year is different in Bolivia
• End-of-school-year performance by his
school in a public Tarija-city venue
71

72. Time with Mijael
San Lorenzo (Moto Mendez Museo)
72

73. Time with Mijael
Community Center
73
Some of the friends I made on my
2012 trip: Lorena, Lionel and Hector

74. Time with Mijael
Local Markets
74

75. Time with Mijael
Parque Infantil (Children’s Park)
75

76. Time with Mijael
Parque Juan Pablo Segundo
76

77. Time with Mijael
Parque Bolivar
77

78. Time with Mijael
Other Parks
78

79. Kara2Mijael
Accomplishments & Next Steps
Summary of Accomplishments
Of the 2014 Mission Trip &
Expanding the Reach of Kara2Mijael
79

80. Trip to Tarija 2014
Summary of Accomplishments
• Agua es Vida Project
– Receptions, Tours, Dedications by barrios & governmental organizations
– Met with barrio elders and discussed barrio-specific water needs
– Met with barrio residents benefitting from the access to clean water
– Met with Engineers, Contractors, On-site Managers, Vigilance Committee
– Tours of Agua es Vida Well System major components in the barrios
– Discussions regarding budget and current and future funding
– Discussions regarding expansion of the Agua es Vida Project
• Tarija Needy Barrios
– Receptions and Tours at 5 Barrios
– Met with elders of all barrios & discussed critical barrio needs
– Toys for 50 children; School and Healthcare Supplies for the neediest barrios
– Play time with children; Dinner with families
– Taught American customs, music, dance
– Commitment by Proclamation to help Corazon de Jesus get representation
– Motivation for the creation of the Barrio Voice Project
80

81. Trip to Tarija 2014
Summary of Accomplishments (cont’d)
• ChildFund in Tarija
– Toys & School supplies for 75 children
– Play time with children at Community Centers
– Receptions & Tours at 3 Community Centers & Administrative Offices
– Met with Community Center leadership & discussed critical needs
– Met with Young Leaders at 2 Community Centers
– Motivation for the creation of the Young Leaders Project
• Mijael & His Family
– Toys, Clothes, School Supplies, Food, Toiletries, Sporting goods to Mijael
– Play time with Mijael & his cousins
– Quality time getting to know Mijael’s extended family
– Multiple meals in Tarija City with Mijael’s family
– Many activities with them throughout Tarija City
• Overall
– Expanded contact List & distribution list for future projects
– Created strategic partners for future projects (e.g., contracting companies)
81

82. • Continue ChildFund Sponsorship of Mijael
• Expand ChildFund Association for Assistance in New Projects
• Update & Maintain Kara2Mijael website for Communication
• Formalize Kara2Mijael into a 501(C)(3) Corporation
• Increase Communication of the Global Water Crisis & Kara2Mijael
• Utilize Public Relations Firm to Expand Media Coverage
– The Hodges Partnership is being provided by ChildFund
• Continue Fundraising – Fundraisers Planned:
– Spring Yard Sale
– Winter & Spring Recyclable Cans & Bottles Drive
– Spring Wendy’s Community Night
– Civic Organization Presentations – Girl Scouts, Rotary Club, Lions Club
– Website & GoFundMe Website
• Expand the Communication with International Aid Organizations
– Continue Current Partnerships; Build Additional Partnerships
– Focus on ChildFund & Lions Club International Foundation
Kara2Mijael Next Steps
Expanding the Reach
82

83. Agua es Vida Project
• Oversee the current Agua es Vida Project to its completion
• Support the expansion of the current well system into neighboring barrios
• Continue to create water-related organization partnerships in Tarija
Young Leaders Project
• Create Young Leaders Social Network
• Work with Yilmar & Carla as founding members
• Work with Proyectos & Barrios to coordinate the mentoring of younger kids
Barrio Voice Project
• Work with international aid organizations to get some of the neediest barrios
aid organization and government representation
• Solicit child sponsorship (minimum number of sponsors may be required)
Community Center Needs
• Organize donation drives seeking specific barrio needs (e.g., musical
instruments, art supplies, music, school supplies)
• Transport these donations to needy Community Centers
Other Water Projects
• Continue working current & create new partnerships with water-providing aid
organizations to provide access to clean water to other areas of the world
Kara2Mijael Next Steps
New & Expanded Projects
83

84. INDIA CLEAN WATER PROJECT
• Thirst Relief International (TRI)
• International organization working in India
• Projects related to the global water crisis
• Kara2Mijael is currently working a partnership with TRI to provide 2 clean
water wells to needed regions in India (site selection being worked)
• Project Description:
 2 Borehole wells to be built in 2 villages
 Each well will provide access to clean water for ~3,000 people
• Project Cost:
 Each well Costs :$1,500
 Total Project Costs: $3,000
• Funding:
 Because of the overwhelming success of Kara2Mijael Agua es Vida fundraisers
(e.g., Yard Sale), an additional $1,500 was raised for these water projects
 One well is fully funded; Will be working logistics with TRI
 Future fundraisers will target a second well
Kara2Mijael
Current Other Water Projects
84

85. CHILDFUND INTERNATIONAL
• Working to relieve children's poverty and
sanitation needs throughout the world
• Kara2Mijael has sponsored Mijael in Tarija, Bolivia since 2006
• Agua es Vida Water Well Project managed on-site by ChildFund Bolivia
• Working the expansion of Agua es Vida and additional water projects
LIONS CLUB INTERNATIONAL FOUNDATION
• Grants to support international projects
• Supports1.35 Million Lions, 46,000 Lions Clubs
• Projects Supported in 200 countries worldwide
• Requirement for 2 separate Lions’ Clubs to work together on a project
• Kara2Mijael is working a grant application to expand Agua es Vida
• 2 Lions Clubs to team:
 Rocky Point Lions Club (Rocky Point, NY, USA)
 Moto Mendez Lions Club (Tarija, Bolivia)
Kara2Mijael
Current International Partners
85

86. A DRINK FOR TOMORROW (ADFT)
• Student-run organization at UNC Chapel Hill
• Provides water to impoverished global areas
• Kara2Mijael is attempting to partner with this organization to provide water
to another needed area of the world
BLOOD:WATER
• International organization targeting Africa
• Projects related to the Global Water Crisis
• Kara2Mijael is attempting to partner with Blood:Water to provide water to a
needed area in Africa, most likely Uganda
OTHER ORGANIZATIONS
• Have communicated with ~25 International Aid Organizations
• Will be working additional partnerships over time
• Focus on the solving of the Global Water Crisis
Kara2Mijael
Developing International Partners
86

87. Appendix A
More About Tarija
Tarija, Bolivia
Barrio Types &
Other Sites
87

88. Tarija, Bolivia
Barrio Types
• Tarija broken up into barrios (neighborhoods)
• Barrio Types:
– Urban – Like US small city
– Suburban – Like US very small city
– Rural – Agricultural, sparse
– Barren – Desert-like (Outer Barrios)
• Barrios Visited:
– All are Outer Barrios & barren
• ChildFund Community Centers Visited:
– Guadalquivir – Serving Suburban & Barren barrios
– Tabladita – Serving Suburban & Rural barrios
– Nuevo Amanacer – Serving Rural & Barren barrios
– Administrative Offices – Serves all Tarija barrios
88

89. Tarija Neighborhood Types
Urban & Suburban Areas
• xxxxx
89
Urban Areas
(Tarija City)
Suburban Areas

90. Tarija Neighborhood Types
Rural & Barren Areas
90
Rural Areas Barren Areas
(Outer Barrios)

91. Tarija City – Main Market
Campesino Mercado
91

92. Tarija City
Plazas
92

93. Tarija City
Hotel Altiplano
93

94. Tarija City – Churches
Basilica San Francisco
94

95. Tarija City – Churches
La Catedral de Tarija
95

96. Tarija City – Soccer Stadium
Estadio IV Centenário
96

97. Tarija
Lake San Jacinto
97

98. Appendix B
Detailed Fundraising
Detailed Fundraising
Descriptions
98

99. Fundraiser Event
Applebee’s Pancake Breakfast
• Breakfast at the local Applebee’s
• $10 for a complete breakfast
• 70% of all proceeds went to Kara2Mijael
• Many customers donated money also
99

100. Fundraiser Event
SB Soccer Club Concession Stand
• Sound Beach Soccer Club allowed
Kara2Mijael to run a concession stand
during the Spring 2014 season (10 wks)
• Candy, chips and drinks were donated by
a local sponsor
• All proceeds went to Kara2Mijael
100

101. Fundraiser Event
Wendy’s Community Night
• Wendy’s Community Night – Wendy’s
donated 15% of all earnings from 5:00-
8:00 on a weeknight
• Many community members came out to
support the fundraiser
• Many customers donated money also
• Had many friends and community
members donate time at Wendy’s
helping communicate the Kara2Mijael
message
• Became a springboard for
communication of my message, goals,
and future fundraising activities
101

102. Fundraiser Event
PJ Cinema’s Movie Madness
• PJ Cinemas partnered with Kara2Mijael to
host a Movie Madness event
• $12 for any movie at any time for 1 day
including popcorn and a drink
• $5 of every ticket went to Kara2Mijael
• Tickets were sold in advance by teams of
friends and community members
102

103. Fundraiser Event
Applebee’s Car Wash
• Applebee’s allowed me to use their parking lot and
water on a Saturday
• Advanced Auto Parts donated supplies
• Many friends helped on a really hot day!
• Many customers donated money also
103

104. Fundraiser Event
Country Fair Amusement Park
• Country Fair partnered with Kara2Mijael
to host an Amusement Park Day
• $25 for unlimited access to all attractions
(Miniature golf, Batting Cages, Driving
range, Go-Karts, Laser Tag, etc.)
• $10 of every ticket went to Kara2Mijael
• Tickets were sold in advance by teams of
friends and community members
104

105. Fundraiser Event
Community Yard Sale
• Yard Sale with proceeds to Kara2Mijael
• Community members and businesses
donated items to be sold at the event
• Many customers donated money also
• Most successful fundraiser ($1,532 raised!)
105

106. Fundraiser Event
Recyclable Cans & Bottles
• Solicited recyclable cans and bottles
from family, neighbors, and
community members
• Cashed in Recyclables for proceeds.
• Held several fundraisers throughout
the year
106

107. Fundraising Tools
Website & GoFundMe Website
• Created website
http://www.kara2mijael.org.
• Central location to
communicate the mission,
goals, projects and status,
pictures, and fundraising for
Kara2Mijael
• Created GoFundMe account
and website
http://www.gofundme/kara
2mijael as a convenient
crowdfunding location and
an easy way for people to
donate
• Website and GoFundMe
sites have been very
successful, with many visits
and serving as an excellent
fundraising source
107

108. Other Fundraising
• Many other fundraisers
throughout the year
• Friends & Family Fundraiser
• St. Anthony’s Church Fundraiser
• Local Newspapers Fundraiser
• Civic Organization Presentations
• Booths at Local Fairs & Events
• Fundraising and Events Flyers on
Cars in Local Parking Lots
• Miscellaneous Selling
• Soccer Refereeing Proceeds
• Babysitting Proceeds
• Dog Watching Proceeds
• Lawn-Mowing Proceeds
108

109. Appendix C
Project Kickoff & Thank You
Presentation Documenting the
Agua es Vida Kickoff Ceremony and
The Thank You’s Sent By The Barrios
109

110. Agua es Vida
Project Kickoff & Thank You – pg 1
110

111. Agua es Vida
Project Kickoff & Thank You – pg 2
111

112. Agua es Vida
Project Kickoff & Thank You – pg 3
112

113. Agua es Vida
Project Kickoff & Thank You – pg 4
113

114. Agua es Vida
Project Kickoff & Thank You – pg 5
114

115. Agua es Vida
Project Kickoff & Thank You – pg 6
115

116. Agua es Vida
Project Kickoff & Thank You – pg 7
116

117. Agua es Vida
Project Kickoff & Thank You – pg 8
117

118. Agua es Vida
Project Kickoff & Thank You – pg 9
118

119. Agua es Vida
Project Kickoff & Thank You – pg 10
119

120. Agua es Vida
Project Kickoff & Thank You – pg 11
120

121. Agua es Vida
Project Kickoff & Thank You – pg 12
121

122. Appendix D
Kara2Mijael Recognition
Proclamations, Awards,
Dedications &
Media Coverage
122

123. • Tarija Department Federation of Neighborhood Associations (FEDJUVE)
Tarija Neighborhood Associations
ChildFund-Kara2MijaelDedicationPlaque
• Kara2Mijael & ChildFund Partnership
Honored with a Dedication Plaque
• Mounted to a Holding Tank Component
• ChildFund Provided On-site Project Mgt.
for the Kara2Mijael Agua es Vida Project
123

124. • Recognition for the Kara2Mijael Agua es Vida Project
• Mounted on the Barrio 27 de Mayo Water Holding Tank
Component of the Well System
Barrio 27 de Mayo
Agua es Vida Dedication Plaque
124

125. Tarija Department Federation of
Neighborhood Associations (FEDJUVE)
President (People’s Mayor)
Recognition of Honor Proclamation
Tarija People’s Mayor
Recognition of Honor Proclamation
125

126. The people of Barrio 27 de
Mayo presented Kara2Mijael
with a Grant of Recognition
Plaque to show their gratitude
for the Agua es Vida Project
Barrio 27 de Mayo
Grant of Recognition Plaque
126

127. Barrio Corazon de Jesus
Proclamation & Request
Proclamation of Gratitude and
Request for Help Securing
Aid Organization Representation
127

128. Town of Brookhaven Town Council
September 9, 2014
128

129. Suffolk County Legislature
September 30, 2014
129

130. TBR Newspaper Group
2014 Person of the Year
130
• Was nominated for & selected TBR
Newspaper Group (Suffolk County,
NY) 2014 Person of the Year Award
• Dinner honoring award recipients
to be held in March 2015
• Will use this dinner as an
opportunity to collect additional
contacts and launch additional
fundraisers

131. Media Coverage
131

132. Media Coverage (cont’d)
132

133. Media Coverage (cont’d)
133

134. Media Coverage (cont’d)
134

135. Media Coverage
Proclamation Press Releases
135

136. Media Coverage
Local Tarija TV News Interview
136

137. More Information
More information and ways you can help:
E-mail:
kara2mijael@gmail.com
Website:
http://www.kara2mijael.org
137

138. Thank You…From the People of Tarija!
138

139. Thank You…From Kara and Mijael!
139