Making a Difference: Nonprofit assisting families in the high Andes mountains of Peru

Debbie Goodson, a Spanish major and teacher, had always dreamed of visiting Machu Picchu by the time she turned 60. After achieving this goal and being profoundly moved by the experience, she decided to return and explore more of Peru. The following year, she convinced her siblings to join her, and her love for the country deepened.

Upon retiring from teaching at the Waterford School in Utah, Goodson spent five weeks in Cusco, living with a family, teaching English to local children, and exploring the region from Lake Titicaca to the Amazon.

While admiring the view from the Sacred Valley, she wondered, "What’s on the other side of those mountains?" Driven by curiosity, she discovered the remote village of Pampacorral at 12,500 feet above sea level, where the students primarily spoke Quechua.

Realizing the lack of basic supplies like books, paper, and pencils in these remote schools, Goodson initiated a service project to enrich these schools with essential supplies and introduce art and music. This led to the creation of the Andes Education Fund, which aims to improve education in remote, impoverished schools in the Andes region of Peru.

Initially, Goodson visited Peru once a year, but her visits increased to twice a year before the COVID-19 pandemic, after which she resumed annual visits in the spring. Her goal was to help schools not already supported by large NGOs, ensuring she could see the impact of her work over time.

The Andes Education Fund provides materials such as math games, art and music supplies, and sports equipment. Goodson even brought a suitcase of used tennis balls, which the children enjoyed despite their lack of bounce.

Volunteers are crucial to the nonprofit's operations, ranging from college students to friends and family. They help transport supplies and engage with the local communities, even if they don't speak Spanish. Goodson emphasizes that art transcends language barriers, and the children's eagerness to learn English bridges the communication gap.

Volunteer Diane Cannon joined after hearing about her daughter's positive experience and later convinced her husband to accompany her on a subsequent trip. Together, Goodson and her volunteers have built various facilities, including classrooms, libraries, kitchens, and bathrooms, significantly improving the schools' infrastructure.

Despite the challenges of growing food at high altitudes, Goodson initiated a greenhouse project to educate students about the importance of vegetables in their diet. The school's principals and teachers, along with her trusted driver, Daniel Palomino, help identify the schools' needs and navigate local customs.

Over the years, Goodson has become a familiar and trusted figure in the communities she serves. The parents of the students highly value education, often making significant sacrifices to ensure their children attend school. This dedication is reflected in the improved educational opportunities, with students now continuing their studies through to university level.

Goodson's commitment to service has always been her guiding principle. She believes that serving others enriches both the giver and the receiver, expanding personal horizons and providing deep satisfaction. As she puts it, "The more we serve our fellow man, the more substance there is to our souls. It’s a win-win!"