You might remember that Aaron and I spent July in Ecuador. We wandered through the lovely streets and plazas of Quito, and made a 3-day jaunt to the Andean town of Cuenca as well.
But the main reason we visited was to volunteer with Casa Victoria. We helped run their summer program for kids in the San Roque neighborhood, and spent time taking photographs, sharing stories and falling in love with their ministry.
Casa Victoria is an inspiration in the world of poverty alleviation. They not only offer a free meal everyday to the children who join their after school program, but they also focus on developing long-term relationships with families and community leaders to bring opportunity to San Roque.
Aaron and I loved spending time at Casa Victoria, and especially soaking up the kindness and generous spirits of Dan and Alicia. The couple are two of the most giving people I know; and they are committed to serve this little neighborhood for years and years to come.
They’re building a cafe!
That’s right– Alicia has a vision to turn their spacious basement into a hip cafe! This cafe will serve pizza, coffee and other goodies, and it will provide a source of income for Casa Victoria. In addition, it will offer job opportunities for graduates of Casa Victoria’s program, offering them a stepping stone to the working world.
Why is a cafe a good idea? This neighborhood is entering a period of revival. More and more tourists are venturing out into the historic district of Quito to enjoy its magnificent colonial architecture and museums. In several years, it wouldn’t be surprising that more visitors will come to San Roque for its markets, museums, and beautiful views.
It’s perfect timing, then, for Casa Victoria to start renovating their basement and building a cafe. In a few short years, the cafe would be in the perfect spot for visitors looking for a quaint place to recharge and get a bite to eat.
Here’s how to support this project.
Ready to partner in the founding of a cafe? (How cool is this opportunity for all of us, by the way?) They just launched an Indiegogo campaign explaining their vision and breaking down expenses. Partner with them and see this cafe grow!
>>See the Campaign Here!<<
Because I am SO psyched for Casa Victoria, I’m giving away Noonday jewelry for those of you who choose to follow their journey. Ultimately, I would be thrilled if you chose to give to this campaign (every gift matters!), but giving is not necessary for entering this giveaway.
In the spirit of supporting a non-profit in Ecuador, I’m offering this Tagua Gem Necklace to one lucky winner! This necklace is made by artisans in Ecuador out of natural, sustainable materials. And it’s beautiful!
Enter to win: Tagua Gem Necklace OR $25 gift card to Noonday
This is amazing, Daisy. And so awesome to see in video form where you were in Quito. What an incredible cause and dream this community has. I’m sure they will touch many more lives in the future! Thanks for sharing this, friend!
Daisy, I love your giant heart and Mama Alicia’s dream!!! 🙂
Dreaming BIG entrepreneur dreams over here! And churros… I dream of churros.
Hi Daisy – this is such a lovely story and you’re so generous! I’ll actually be publishing a post on my blog soon about volunteer stories from around the world – I’ll be sure to include a link to this one and hopefully get a bit more attention to a great cause! x
Wow, that’s so cool Lauren!! I absolutely loved Quito– it is so beautiful. And thank you so much for sharing this; I really, really appreciate it.
Thanks for checking this out! And exactly- that’s why I absolutely love the cafe idea. 🙂
Thank you for checking this out, Kenya! And cheers to starting your own business. You can do it!!
This is just a fabulous thing to do for the children and the community! My dream is start my own business and finally leave my 9 to 5.
Yes indeed! I think it’s going to look so so cool.
It’s super cool, thanks for your sweet comment, Mica!
Thanks for checking this out, Hannah! 🙂
Yes it is! Thanks for reading, Heather!
This is a great idea, and I’m sure the café will do great in that area! Just what is needed 🙂
What a neat cause, Daisy!! I love that you are sharing about it here!
What a great cause! I hope that they are successful with building the cafe and that it make the difference they are hoping for. It’s a wonderful initiative to get behind, thank you for supporting it! 🙂
Away From The Blue Blog
What an amazing cause! I think when people try to revive what was once a beautiful place, it makes them a wonderful human being. Always seeing potential. (: I’ve never been to Ecuador, but I certainly wouldn’t turn down the opportunity. (:
http://www.accordingtokiki.net
I love the campaign video and the work they are doing. It’s brilliant that they are thinking ahead and looking for ways to be more self-sufficient (so they can be sure to continue their work). Thanks for sharing the campaign and hosting the giveaway!
Quito, Ecuador is actually the first major outside-the-US trip I took as a teenager and will always have a special place in my heart! This sounds like such a cool way to support people with a heart and passion to see the people thrive and grow. The giveaway’s pretty awesome too! I’m excited to click over and check this out/share it so others can do the same!
Thanks for checking it out, Rachel! 🙂
Ahh I hope you do!!
This is beautiful – so wonderful what they’re doing there. 🙂
Rachel | goldandmarble.blogspot.com
Write a book 🙂