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Prior Lake Soccer Club

Shannon Villar

I made my first trip to Chimbote almost 25 years ago with a group from St.
Michael Catholic Church in Prior Lake, MN. During my first trip to Chimbote, it
became obvious we find more meaning in ourselves when we lift our eyes off
ourselves and recognize others. I have made several short-term and long-term
mission trips since. My most recent trip was in April with my husband, Tony,
and our children Jack (13) and Catherine (11). This was our children’s second
visit to Chimbote. This trip was especially humbling for them. They had an
opportunity to meet the families, hear their stories, and play soccer with the
kids from Cambio Puente. Children are inherently virtuous. Their goodness,
playfulness, and desire to help others is true human nature. We brought Jack
and Catherine to Chimbote because children are key players in shaping the
future of humanity by learning how to advocate for the poor and vulnerable, break gender stereotypes, and empower women
and children.
We were thrilled to learn about the new Girls and Boys in Action Sports Project in Cambio Puente. Before our trip, we
approached our soccer club in Prior Lake to ask for donations of slightly used soccer gear. Thanks to the generosity of many
FALL 2024
families, we were able to bring a lot of donations that were well received by the athletes in Cambio Puente. We were delighted
to make the connection between our soccer club and Cambio Puente. To connect those who are fortunate with those who,
through no fault of their own, live in extreme poverty is a demonstration of solidarity and hope.
The Girls and Boys in Action Sports Project is providing wonderful learning opportunities ~ actually, significant learning
opportunities. Children learn important life skills through sports. Sports provide opportunities for children to learn leadership
and communication skills. Children learn how to collaborate and be accountable when they play sports. Belonging to a team
teaches children how to manage time and be self-disciplined. Sports create a safe place for children to build confidence, care
for themselves and others, gain self-knowledge while integrating new talents and skills. The Girls and Boys in Action Sports
Project feeds the human spirit by providing opportunities for children to break stereotypes and build unity.
It’s evident that ACAF and Friends of Chimbote are working hard to
defend and promote the dignity of the poor. They’re not only working
to meet the immediate needs of the poor and vulnerable, they’re also
promoting equality, inclusivity, and implementing projects that allow
men, women, and children to reach their full human potential. Over the
years, I have seen a lot of positive changes in Chimbote, especially for the
women and children. ACAF and Friends of Chimbote recognize children
as our future. They understand their well-being is crucial for the future
of humanity. ACAF and Friends of Chimbote are nurturing children while
supporting the mothers who are often left to raise their children alone.
With support and encouragement, women are becoming more confident
and taking on leadership positions.

The work of ACAF and Friends of Chimbote is inspiring because they work for social justice by respecting the inherent dignity
of every person! In order to promote human dignity, they promote equality. Changing centuries of cultural conditioning is
difficult, but progress is being made. ACAF and Friends of Chimbote are doing this by working alongside the men, women and
children of Chimbote so they can participate fully in society, enhance the common good which concerns the life of all, and
promote justice.
I am so proud of the work that is going on in Cambio Puente. I can see hope. The message in Cambio Puente is ~ that even
in extreme poverty, determined minds may find the future that they are hoping for.

The work of ACAF and Friends of Chimbote reminds us that we are all called to examine our interhuman connectedness and
see ourselves as part of a larger, unified whole. Friends of Chimbote, ACAF, visitors, and supporters are making a difference in
the lives of many!

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