Seven rising seniors and one rising sophomore joined Advanced Community Engaged Learning Coordinator Adams Sibley of the Bonner Institute and Paula Figueroa-Vega, Director of the Bonner Institute, during a thirteen day trip to Nicaragua. Partially funded by the Bonner Foundation endowment to TCNJ, this annual trip has afforded the students the opportunity to gain an international perspective as they explore how the United States policies affected the political process of the country. In addition, students learn parts of the rich history of Nicaragua and the cultural and historical perspectives of its people.
Two pivotal lectures by professors from Nicaragua, one that migrated from U.S. and one a native of Granada City, were able to contextualize key historical moments and current events during the first few days of the trip. Community leaders and activist, with experience in social entrepreneurship, allowed students to meet compassionate people who are finding creative ways to address some of the social justice issues present in the area of child welfare and people with disabilities.
While the trip is fun, (students explored volcanoes, rode horse drawn carriages, and took boat rides in Lake Nicaragua) the trip is also about connecting with Los Quinchos, an organization established by Zelinda Rocia in 1991 to assist children living in the street. The connection with Los Quinchos is a five year relationship, meaning that it has been an integral part of TCNJ Bonner for half of our total ten years as a program.
It’s easy to connect with children who welcome you to their residential program with open arms–ready to play and connect. Although service is part of the experience, Bonners are aware that they receive much more than they can give, and that the organization hosting us, along with its participants, are not in need of us, but truly enjoy the visit and the distraction from their everyday life. Who wouldn’t, since the day usually includes a quick game of soccer, coloring, or even making soap for their next entrepreneurial venture. Los Quinchos children are welcomed to participate but not required to do so, they choose to join whenever an activity peaks their interest.
Children at Los Quinchos are provided residential services in a caring environment, usually lead by a graduate of the program. They have a safe place to live and eat, where they can attend school, and are provided social services as many of them are recovering from abuse, neglect, poverty, and drug addiction. Most importantly, the children are provided stability and love.
The Bonner Scholars program offers the opportunity for students to do service in community organizations to address a social need. Its student development model allows students to learn and reflect on key concepts around social justice and engaged citizenship. They facilitate the First Year Community Engaged Learning program of TCNJ. This experience allows students to solidify their work as most are entering their last year of their college career. The Nicaragua trip isn’t about saving a community—rather it’s about TCNJ students learning how community is created and maintained. Spending time with the children isn’t charity; it’s an opportunity to learn and take that knowledge gained back into their service work back home.