¡Jóvenes!

 After six months learning the ins and outs of writing, designing and publishing a magazine the students of 'Jóvenes' youth magazine sent the first addition of the magazine to print. It was a huge accomplishment for these students who have been working to improve their writing skills, conduct interviews and design layouts.

With support from volunteers and staff, students learned to write informative and entertaining articles, design lay-outs, and take photographs.  They are also worked to fund the project through selling local ad space and finding major sponsors. These students worked very hard and have made huge strides. The termination of the first edition set these kids on fire to write and continue learning to create the best youth magazine they can. As we speak, they have begun writing the next edition. 

This was not always easy, at times it was down right frustrating, but they did it! We are so very proud of the growth in this group and are thrilled in the direction they are heading. 

Meaning, in a little over a week we should have the first edition of OYE's 'Jóvenes'. Look forward to pictures and student reactions!

Give your Vote!

Recently, OYE entered a design competition called, "Show Your Impact". The winner gets $1000 cash and the choice of an Adobe CS4 product.

The vote consists of two parts:First there is a public vote. To vote you have to fill out a very simple registration form. Name and email. Then vote!

To vote: Click on the link below and look for Organization for Youth Empowerment. It was submitted on the April 15th the the Social Change: Photo/Print. To make it fair they ask you to vote for a minimum of three organizations, JUST MAKE SURE ONE OF THEM IS FOR OYE.

Once we have made it to the second round, a Jury will select the winner.

We realize that financial giving is not always possible. So, here is your opportunity to support OYE from your home or office in five easy minutes.

VOTE HERE: http://www.showyourimpact.org/socialprint

Thank you very much and please spread the word!

In a few words...

Recently OYE began constructing a new website. However, we realize that it would be impossible to make a website that captures the energy and community of OYE without a few words from our past volunteers and staff. In the last week we have received numerous emails that articulate what OYE means to them that we would like to share with you.

So, here are two of the numerous quotes we have received that have reminded us, once again, that OYE is truly a family.  

If you would like to add your experience or words to our website we welcome you to write us at, oyehonduras@gmail.com. Please include your name and the year you joined OYE. Thank you.

"'All together one' is the official theme that embodies the special spirit and unique closeness that binds Madison community members with one another. Since our journey to Honduras a few short weeks ago, I am reminded that this concept, though true here, is not unique to us. Those connected to OYE are referred to as family. Our partnership with you is a concrete example that we are all members of a global community whose past, present, and future are inextricably linked. The work you do to create youth leaders with a social conscience who are agents of positive change in the Honduran population undoubtedly goes beyond your borders and impacts the world in which we live in deep and profound ways. Thank you."

Matt Tybus, 2009 James Madison University

 

"Nothing could have prepared me for the experience I had working with OYE in El Progreso. Though I knew the purpose of the organization, and understood the population they served, I was blown away by my experiences there. The children I met through OYE have overcome bigger obstacles than many people in the first world will ever experience in a lifetime. And yet, they all smiled, laughed, and played just like children around the world do. They were eager to learn and make new friends, and welcomed me, a stranger in their world, with open arms. One of my best memories from working with OYE was from a day we went to spend recreational time with the kids. These children wore me out playing soccer, tag, laughing, tickle wars, and any other activity they could pull me into. Their energy and attitude still inspires me to this day. The fact that OYE gives them a chance to channel that energy into positive steps that improve their lives is an immeasurable gift amidst the tough circumstances these children have been born into. My OYE experience is one I will never forget, and I am so glad I had the opportunity to interact with these amazing people."

Alexis Pollak