BE IN PARTNERSHIP WITH A CEVER STUDENT

The word "sponsor" in Spanish is translated "padrino. However, another word for padrino, in English, is godparent.

It is as godparents that we ask those who commit to being in partnership with CEVER students to think of themselves. A godparent's role is to support - emotionally, spiritually, and also, (but not primarily) financially. When a godparent gives financially, it is because they have an established relationship with the family of the child.

Engaging in intercultural relationship is a serious responsibility. Just as a godparent commits to a child for an extended period of time, we ask that those in partnership commit to three years of continued support. Should they be unable to continue their support, we ask that they take the responsibility for transferring their sponsorship personally.

Those in partnership commit to writing letters to their students four times a year. We hope that the exchange of letters will facilitate the development of a relationship.

Those in partnership commit to financial support of the CEVER PROJECT (not a specific student) at $60/month, plus a $10 quarterly administrative fee.

Those in partnership commit that they will not send actual or promised aid outside of their letters and monthly support of the CEVER Project. We do this in an attempt to work towards an equal partnership.

Those in partnership are encouraged to attend workshops on global economics, free vs. fair trade, and politico-social awareness. These workshops will strive to build a community of people in Maine and to provide a forum for discussion of issues such as the difference between charity and solidarity, and what it means to "leverage wealth". We will examine how choices in our every day lives connect us to the global economic system, and how we affect the lives of people in Honduras and around the world. Coming into partnership with a CEVER student means that you will become actively engaged with this particular student. At the same time, you and/or your organization will have the opportunity to support an initiative to make real, sustainable change that fosters independence and empowerment. Finally, you will be challenged to learn how you might leverage wealth, and make change in your own life every day.