From Simply Smiles: Sibling Reunification in Mexico

Preparing for Day of the Dead, sibling reunification & visitors in Mexico

The kids remain incredibly busy with their school activities, and they are also preparing for El Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, with colorful, festive decorations and beloved traditions. While they may seem alike, Day of the Dead is not Mexico's version of Halloween. Check out some helpful links below (including great resources for kids) about this vibrant time of celebration and remembrance.

We're also pleased to report that we've welcomed two additional children into our care. They've been reunited with their siblings, who have lived at our village for many years. At present, there are 14 children who live at the Children's Village, who are cared for by a loving, attentive staff and supported by the generosity of the Simply Smiles community.

Another exciting note: Meet volunteers Helen and Leni from Germany!

Helen (left) and Leni (right) join us from Germany as part of a voluntary service program through Freiwilliger ökumenischer Friedensdienst (FÖF), or the Voluntary Ecumenical Peace Service of the Protestant Church of Baden; Simply Smiles Germany; and Simply Smiles Inc.

Our Children’s Village in Mexico will be hosting Helen and Leni for the year*, as they assist the staff and kids in all that is needed to support the youth in our care. They will also help with special communications projects and events as the year progresses.

This opportunity was facilitated and made possible through tireless efforts by Stefan Schuetz and Eleanor McCormick of Simply Smiles Germany. (Some of our community may recognize Stefan and Ellie’s names from their time with the Plymouth Congregational Church of Lawrence, KS!) Simply Smiles Germany began as a fundraising initiative by a former Simply Smiles volunteer from Germany who spent time with us in Oaxaca, looking for a way to support our programming after returning home. Now, Simply Smiles Germany will be working to recruit future FÖF volunteers, explore fundraising opportunities, and more to support the efforts of Simply Smiles Inc.

A huge GRACIAS / THANK YOU to Gaby, the staff, and youth at the Children’s Village for integrating Helen and Leni into the day-to-day activities in Mexico. We will be sure to provide updates from their experience - stay tuned!
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*Please note: Simply Smiles Inc. volunteer programs remain suspended. While we are eager to offer these opportunities again, current volunteers in Mexico are serving through a special program.

And, a special thank you to supporters who have reached out in light of some extreme weather that has hit the state of Oaxaca and other regions in Mexico during the last few weeks, including a 6.3-magnitude earthquake and the effects of Hurricane Otis. The children and staff at the Children's Village remain safe and healthy. We appreciate all of the messages; they are always welcome and appreciated!

What We're Reading:
• "EL DÍA DE LOS MUERTOS / DAY OF THE DEAD" - an educational activity guide from Mexic-Arte Museum
• "Top 10 things to know about the Day of the Dead" (National Geographic)
• "Día de los Muertos is not Mexican Halloween" (The Washington Post)

Learn more about our Children's Village in Mexico

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