To keep up-to-date on the Panama VIM Mission Team go to: http://panama2011.wordpress.com
History: In 2006 First Church Glen Ellyn sent the first group of volunteers to provide health services to Ngobe Indians living in poverty in Northwestern Panama. Since then a strong bond of friendship with the Ngobe and a partnership with the local Panamanian Methodist Church, who also volunteer with us, has been formed. Much has been accomplished together. The Health Promoter students put their personal lives on hold to travel each day to attend our classes. One of them said, “Some people think we are just dirty and ignorant, but you believed in us”.
Our promise is to strengthen the Ngobe community so they can maintain health in their communities and move out of poverty. Consider that since 2006 and, with your help, we have raised money for materials for 183 latrines that local families built in remote jungle communities; provided health care on each visit; provided VBS; taught and are mentoring 2 groups of village health promoters in a 3 session course and collaborated with other groups who are researching clean water sources and building a dental facility.
You can help. Please make out checks to “First United Methodist-VIM”. In addition, a suitcase will be placed in the narthex that will have tags attached to it with the names of needed items on it. Please take a few tags and purchase the indicted item and return it to the suitcase. If you have questions, please contact Jane or Richard Dunn at 630-790-4387