Altrusa learns about literacy mission in El Salvador
Pictured are Altrusa club members, Gina Earley, Paula Kiser, and Sherri Helterbrand with Britney Hibbs and Gabi Cucufate.
By Connie Williams
Altrusa of Highland County
Altrusa International’s October meeting offered members an informative look at MAE El Salvador, in international project supported by the club. Guests Britney Hibbs and Gabi Cucufate shared the story of the mission and its impact on young people in El Salvador.
Britney and her husband, Bobby, felt called to mission work in El Salvador after visiting the country several times, during which Britney used her nursing skills to help local residents.
In the 20 years since they established Love and Hope Ministry, the organization has made a meaningful difference in the lives of many young people.
The ministry offers a variety of programs, including a library, literacy instruction and tutoring, church services, sports, and music. Gabi benefitted from the music programs and learned to play almost any instrument. She now also serves in the Youth Ministry and helps with social media.
Altrusa of Highland County began supporting MAE El Salvador many years ago with a donation for its literacy programs. Since then, the club has purchased books for the ministry’s libraries on several occasions and participated in the MAE fundraising walk this spring.
Club members were grateful to welcome Britney and Gabi and hear firsthand about the mission, especially because they return to the United States only a couple of times a year.