INFOCIMA Nº 47 – NOVEMBER 2024

The Smile of the Month

Sneider águila

My name is Sneider I am 12 years old, and have been at CIMA for nine months. Before arriving here, I ran away from home and spent one night sleeping on the streets. I often skipped school, and one day, I decided to leave home. That was when my dad brought me to CIMA. At first, I was very scared of being away from my family, but my tutors and peers welcomed me warmly, and I quickly made many friends. My favorite workshop is the farm workshop, especially taking care of the animals, particularly the hens. I also like all the other workshops, but I really enjoy the technical initiation workshop, where I’m learning about welding. I attend La Libertad School, where I am in primary school. At CIMA, my tutors treat me very well, and I enjoy playing soccer with my friends. We also play marbles and spinning top. When I grow up, I’d like to become a police officer. I want to thank all the tutors and teachers at CIMA for all their support.

Testimony of former CIMA resident: Milenko Condori

My name is Milenko, and I am 35 years old. My story with CIMA begins when I was 14, and had family problems, which led me to drugs and living on the streets. A neighbor told me about CIMA, he mentioned that his son was there and this is how I ended up at the home. From the very first moment, I felt that CIMA was a place where I could find the protection of a real home. Father Jean-Louis gave me the paternal love I had lacked, especially after losing my mother when I was 12. I stayed at CIMA for a year and a half with my brother Daniel, and that time was very important for me. At CIMA, I learned many things and was given the opportunity to study. I also participated in the workshops, particularly carpentry, where I gained practical skills that now allow me to make a living. The workshops not only taught me a trade but also essential values such as respect, punctuality, and the importance of living harmoniously with others. Thanks to what I learned at CIMA, I discovered my talents and grew up with confidence and freedom. I now live in Cusco, my family’s city, where I am happy, work, and continue achieving my dreams. In Cusco, I am a responsible citizen in my community and can support my family with my salary. I am deeply grateful to CIMA for giving me the chance to change and build a normal and happy life. I also want to thank Father Jean-Louis, who showed me a father’s love and care. Thank you, CIMA, for transforming my life!

Testimony of a Canadian volunteer: Line Grenier

My name is Line and I am a retired grandmother. For many years, I dreamed of volunteering abroad. A friend told me about CIMA. I met Father Jean-Louis, we talked, and from that moment my decision was made. CIMA would be where I would live my first volunteer experience. There, I found a wonderful team of collaborators who, day by day, guide the young people and help them learn and understand true values, respect, and perseverance, so they can grow into responsible adults with healthy minds and bodies. I spent almost a month close to these young people and managed to establish a bond of trust with many of them. We talked about what brought them to CIMA, their previous lives, their addictions, their journeys, but also about what they hope for in their future. At CIMA, the children receive schooling, participate in numerous activities and workshops of all kinds, helping them forget their unhealthy pasts. In short, CIMA’s goal is to help these young people become better people and reintegrate into society with a positive outlook on life, while also learning to believe in themselves. I came to help, but I am leaving with my heart full of invaluable moments shared with everyone at CIMA, both children and adults. A special thanks goes to Jean-Louis and Anne.

CIMA Annual Reunion 2024:

A celebration of community and gratitude

On November 24, CIMA had its Annual Reunion, a successful event that strengthens ties among all of you who have been part of our big family for over 22 years. This year, the event officially adopted the name “CIMA Annual Reunion,” reflecting its evolution and the diversity of participants who join this special day. We were honored to welcome former CIMA residents, ex-volunteers, former staff members, friends, and families who have supported our mission. The day was filled with activities, including a solidarity fair, delicious dishes prepared by some of the children’s mothers, and an exciting raffle with great prizes. Every year, soccer plays a key role in the reunion. The young people form teams and thoroughly enjoy reconnecting with their past companions. The enthusiasm and participation of everyone showcased the solidarity that defines this event. Beyond celebration, the annual reunion serves a charitable purpose. All proceeds go toward supporting activities and projects that benefit the boys who find a home of hope at CIMA, helping them build a better future. Thanks for the support of those who attended, the purchase of raffle tickets, and for contributing in any way: we keep moving on with our mission. We look forward to seeing you next year at the CIMA Annual Reunion 2025!

Birthdays of the month

Children and adolescents: Isaac Roca Radamel Sánchez Dany Ticse Rafael Bautista

Staff: Félix De La Cruz Miguel Fiestas

Happy Birthday!

News:

On Wednesday, November 20, the boys at CIMA enjoyed a unique cultural day with representatives from the Ministry of Culture. Thanks to Ysabel Chávez, Olivia Rojas, Luis Collavino, Raúl Zambrano, and Anne Jauregui for sharing their knowledge and passion. We explored our roots in the Tijerales archaeological site located behind CIMA’s facilities. It was an unforgettable experience of learning and culture!

On November 21, students and teachers from San Juan María Vianney School visited CIMA for a joyful day of camaraderie. We enjoyed a mini-Olympics, dance performances, and moments full of fun. This activity strengthened the spirit of community and collaboration among participants. An unforgettable day for everyone!

On Saturday, November 30, eight CIMA children were baptized in a beautiful ceremony. We are very grateful to the Los Boscos group from Avanzada Católica, who had been preparing them for months. After the ceremony, they treated us to a delicious lunch, greatly appreciated by everyone.