I would like to believe we played a small part in the self-help renaissance in Char Village.
There is a misconception that poor villagers are there for each other…sharing their daily bread with their neighbors. That is just not the case. Words like “selfish” or “jealous” are not appropriate and we should avoid passing judgement. This is a difficult to understand country with a tragic history, strong traditions and what seems like insurmountable poverty.
That being said our plan in 2018 was to dig communal wells each serving about 15 families. They needed to share the work of digging, constructing and maintaining the well…. not the norm and a bit risky. However, it worked, and I witnessed an almost festive attitude as whole families got involved. No BBQs but smiles, laughter and good-natured bantering.
A few weeks later Jen Clarke and I decided to use Bath Rotary donations to buy roofing for the open-air schoolhouse if the villagers would install it. The turnout was great and while the men fixed the roof Jen rewarded the children for their hand-washing enthusiasm with pencils and notebooks. It was a wonderful experience all round.
Samley, our Project Manager, is very well thought of by all the villagers. In addition, the Char Village Chief and his assistant Chief are enlightened individuals who truly care for their people.
These folks make it happen.
When I arrived this year, I noticed a huge foundation going in behind the dilapidated wooden schoolhouse. It turns out the village was offered a grant for all the construction materials if they would supply all the labor. They not only agreed to construct it but also to
finish it in three months. So, it is days in the fields and nights constructing a much-needed school for their children. Community spirit!
As a gesture of support Getting Water Right donated $200.– to defer the cost of a proper school entrance sign.
It is very gratifying to be involved with such an enlightened village.