Lumbisi: A Community

IMG_7707 (1)

IMG_7689

IMG_7682 (1)

Lumbisi is an agrarian community on the outskirts of Quito, Ecuador. Growing up in the United States, we had never been exposed to a community like Lumbisi, where the people follow to principle of "con minga" meaning working together hand-in-hand. Everyone seemed to know each other and were ready to meet new people with the same hospitality as they show to their own people. We visited multiple shops and schools, including one school which had been built by the mothers of the students. Because they had grown up in such a close-knit community, the children at the schools were warm, welcoming, and not afraid to make new friends. We got to play with the children and participate in their dance class where we got to know each child personally.

After having a lot of fun with the kids, we gave each of them a pencil pouch consisting of school supplies. After seeing the smiles of the children's faces as we handed out the supplies, we realized how underprivileged they really were. Every small contribution we make can create a positive impact on the lives of the children and the future of the community. Together we can bring 'alegria' to Lumbisi.