Visiting Peru was a life changing experience for Airdrie resident Heather Leslie.
The beauty of the land, the culture and history of the people and the many sacred sites awed her as did the spiritual leaders she met on the 10-day trip in May.
However, it was Leslie’s opportunity to visit the schools of the Sacred Valley, delivering school-supplied satchels to hundreds of children that left the biggest impression.
She visited the South American country with 11 other Kimmapii Kids members who volunteered their time and money to take part in the third annual trip.
“It was amazing,” said Leslie, who has worked with the non-profit organization since its inception in 2007. “I always thought I had Kimmapii Kids in my blood, now I know I am addicted.”
Leslie said it was heart warming to witness the children, ages six to 12, receiving their bags of pencils, notebooks, erasers and other school supplies.
It was their gratitude that truly impressed Leslie, who is a grandmother.
“We have a perspective of poverty when people don’t have a lot of possessions…and yet, the Peruvian people are the happiest people I have ever met,” said Leslie.
“Those kids are so appreciative of the satchels they get, it is like watching a kid open their favourite gift at Christmas.”
In a tremendous show of appreciation, the team was honoured with hugs, kisses and handmade goods. They were also treated to traditional Peruvian meals.
According to Leslie, all the supplies, including the satchels, were purchased in Peru, which helps keep the cost down. Ninety-five per cent of the money Kimmapii Kids raises goes to purchasing the supplies.
“It is important for us that as much of the money we raise as possible can go to the kids,” said Leslie. “Our purpose is to give these kids...choice, and we do that by giving them an opportunity for an education.”
Calgary resident Cheryl Schmaus also took part in the trip.
She said the supplies made a difference, especially because of the heavy rains, which destroyed many areas near the city of Machu Picchu.
“The supplies are very minimal,” said Schmaus. “It kind of all brings it back into perspective when you see how important pens, papers and notepads are to them. Just simple little things can make a big difference.”
Since its inception, Kimmapii Kids has delivered more than 4,200 boxes and satchels to children in Peru.
The organization is hosting the third annual Kimmapii Kids Festival, at Redwood House, located at Redwood Meadows, Sept. 11, from noon to 6 p.m. Organizers are hoping to raise $32,000, enough to purchase at least 1,500 satchels filled with school supplies.
The Festival will feature a full day of music including folk, bluegrass, Latin, jazz, country and classical. There will also be a silent auction and market place, which will include handmade Peruvian tapestries, jewelry and textiles.
Buskers and strolling minstrels will add to the festive mood. Schmaus said the day will be perfect for families.
“We will have a lot of children’s activities, including games, music and a clown for face painting,” said Schmaus. “Bring your kids and enjoy the day, and just know that it will make a difference.”
If you would like to donate silent auction items or door prizes, contact Denene Derksen at 403-671-3355 or [email protected].
Tickets are available online at www.kimmapiikids.org for $40 per family, $20 per adult and $10 for teens and seniors. Children can attend for free.
