It is hard for me to believe that it has been ten years since I started the Mexican non-profit organization called Educarte. Although I have committed most of my time, energy, and resources to this work for many years now, from the beginning, my goal has been to develop an organization that would be self-sustaining and thrive long after I am gone from this earth. Although that day has not yet come, I am not getting any younger, and it is important that my local team and I prepare for the day when I can no longer lead our efforts. We have made great progress over the past year, and although I will remain as President and Founder of Educarte, I am thrilled to share that we now have teams on both sides of the border ready and willing to lead Educarte into a very bright future. This month, I have invited the person who will now be leading Educarte on this side of the border, Carolina Pacheco, to share with you all.

My name is Carolina Pacheco, and I am the Executive Director of Fundación Educarte. I have worked hand in hand with Kathleen Duncan or, as we affectionately call her in Puerto Peñasco, “Tía Kathy” for the past 9 years. And as you know from your stories, we have helped many children and young students reach their potential and succeed in life, thanks to the support of many of you. It has undoubtedly been a unique experience to see this program grow, and it has also been wonderful for me to grow alongside it. Through this space, and as a living legacy of my mentor, our beloved Tía Kathy, I will be sharing with you the wonderful and inspiring experiences we have serving young people with disabilities in this community. Four years ago, we opened a multi-disciplinary therapy clinic serving disabled children and adults and in August of 2024 we opened the first-ever private special education school in Puerto Peñasco.

This month I would like to share with you the story of a very special little girl in our program, Sofía Bujanda. When Sofía arrived at our school, she came with a diagnosis of microcephaly and a big smile that quickly won everyone over. From the very first day, she adapted easily to the school environment, integrating into the group, forming bonds with her classmates, and earning the affection of her teachers. What stood out the most to everyone was her enthusiasm for learning. Sofía not only participates in academic activities, but she also joyfully engages in artistic, musical, and sensory experiences. Her positive attitude is contagious and inspires those around her.

One of Sofia’s main challenges has been the development of both fine and gross motor skills. Holding crayons, pencils, or performing precise movements hasn’t always been easy for her but that has never been an obstacle. With perseverance and dedication, Sofía approaches every activity with admirable determination, always striving to improve. Throughout this school year, her progress has been remarkable. She has strengthened her independence in her work and is beginning to complete tasks on her own without needing a teacher constantly by her side. In addition, her strong ability to repeat what she hears has helped her reinforce learning and solidify knowledge, turning this skill into a powerful tool for her development. While there are still goals to achieve such as improving her coordination and increasing her autonomy Sofía has shown that with effort, patience, and love, it is possible to overcome barriers. Her story is a reminder that learning is not only measured by results, but also by the attitude and heart with which challenges are faced. Today, we celebrate Sofía: a little girl who teaches us, day by day, that joy and perseverance are the foundation for building a future full of possibilities.

I would like to share a message we recently received from Sofia’s mother: “Truly, we will never stop being thankful to the entire organization for the incredible opportunity we were given this school year. Thank you for making Sofi’s smile possible and for everything you’ve done for her.”

We are very grateful for so many friends on both sides of the border whose support has helped make all of this possible. We are also incredibly grateful to our U.S. non-profit partner, Victory Foundation, for its commitment to ensuring that local children with disabilities are able to reach their potential and thrive. We know we still have a long road ahead, but with your help, we can continue bringing smiles not only to the children but to their entire families as well.

To make a donation to support the critical work our local team is doing go to fundacioneducarte.com.mx.

So many wonderful memories with the hundreds of amazing young people we have supported over the past ten years