Partner Spotlight: Project Amigo
At it’s heart, our GROW program is about positively impacting our growing communities. For 20 years, that opportunity has come alive in Colima, Mexico through our longtime partner, Project Amigo.
Project Amigo provides a wealth of resources to our Colima growing community, here we’ll focus on one very important resource: scholarships. These scholarships empower children from our banana growing community in Mexico to pursue their education, which is key in breaking the cycle of poverty.
Scholarships that Change Lives
GROW scholarships support students from primary school, where they develop students’ love of learning, to college, where students are supported in their transition to adulthood and independence.
Primary school students get early education support, programming that sparks curiosity, and workshops for parents so they understand the long-term benefits of championing their children’s education.
Junior high & high school students receive uniforms, school fees, transportation, daily meals, and counseling to keep them on track. They also participate in homework clubs and tutoring at The GROW Center.
University students are receive tuition, supplies, a laptop, and housing at Casa Amiga, where they have access to hot meals, a computer lab, mentoring, and a supportive community.
The scholarship programs in Colima go beyond the classroom. From enrichment activities and leadership development to health and dental services, the goal is to remove barriers so that children can thrive and graduate. Thanks to these comprehensive programs, GROW scholars show a higher level of advancement to the University, far outpacing any other area in the state.
Health and Dental Care
For many students, health issues can stand in the way of academic success. These challenges are addressed head-on through annual dental cleanings, vision care, and even mobility aids when needed.
Additionally, scholars and community members have access to workshops that address: anti-bullying, anxiety, physical abuse, pregnancy prevention, and receive guidance in navigating the medical system for minors and seniors.
Developing Leaders
Graduates of Project Amigo have gone on to become teachers, engineers, accountants, and community leaders, all first-generation college graduates. Support of our scholars doesn’t stop when they graduate college though. The Alumni Association assists first-generation university graduates through one-on-one counseling and workshops that address career counseling and networking, and gives them the opportunity to mentor younger students.
“I feel deeply fortunate and grateful to have achieved my valuable goal of obtaining a professional career. If I have my sponsors in front of me, I would express my deepest affection and gratitude to them. Your generosity and unconditional support have been fundamental in my path to personal and academic fulfillment.”
The Bigger Picture
Last year, 90 students received direct scholarships through GROW and 5 scholars received their college degrees, the first in their families to reach this achievement. This year, 100 students will benefit from these comprehensive scholarships. Each one represents not just a student in school, but a family and a community lifted up by the power of education.
Check out our 2024 Impact Report to learn more about Project Amigo’s work in Colima.
See Your Impact First-Hand
Did you know that you can participate in Service Weeks in Colima where you can visit our farms, engage with scholars, visit the GROW Center, and see first-hand the impact of your GROW purchases? Contact us for more information!
This GROW Month, when you see a display of GROW bananas and papayas, know that your purchase supports a clear and powerful mission: to elevate growing communities through the power of education and create lasting change in Colima.