Biblioteca William Minor - Tutoring Program Jinotepe, Nicaragua (est. 2017)
The Biblioteca William Minor Tutoring Program is part of the El Trillo ministry complex, founded by Doug and Julie Effinger of Nica Impact. Each week, the program serves 40 elementary-age students who need extra help to keep up with their academic requirements.
Tutors work closely with these students — affectionately calling themselves “William’s Friends” — helping those at risk of failing due to various academic or personal challenges. The program administrator also meets regularly with families to address parents’ concerns and any obstacles hindering their children’s progress. As a result, all participating students advance in both academic performance and self-confidence.
The program has been a remarkable success each year. With very few exceptions, tutored students pass the Ministry of Education’s exit exam and advance to the next grade. Many have gone on to become top academic performers in their classes.
Biblioteca William Minor - Library and Study Centers Matagalpa, Nicaragua Tres Emes (est. 2017) and Sor Maria (est. 2019)
The William Minor libraries serve students from two of the poorest barrios on the outskirts of Matagalpa who attend Hope Project’s tutoring program founded by Farrell Burton of The Hope Project International. The Hope Centers serve over 500 school-age children every day, many of whom throughout the day use the library.
The libraries are well-stocked with books spanning a wide range of reading interests and levels, along with a large selection of non-fiction and research materials.
The librarians have created warm, inviting spaces where students can receive help finding study and research materials, use computers, access craft supplies for school projects, join reading clubs, participate in science fairs, and for some – it’s a place to just come lie on the cool tile floor and look at a book. (Many do not have a desk or table at home where they can do homework, or a tiled floor to lie on.)
