I have been closely involved with Empowerment International since its
inception in 1998. We have been refining our community-based
educational model for over 10 years and are on the cusp of our greatest
achievements ever. However, we are also suffering deeply from the
economic turmoil. I am making a special request for help.

Recurring donations are particularly helpful (even $10 a month) since it
gives us stability in planning. Razoo charges NO FEES for credit card
payments. The entire amount goes to E.I.

Many people who are not seeking short-term band-aids for the world's
problems understand that educating children is a powerful way to benefit
a community and the world in the long-term. Because of that, there are a
lot of worthy organizations that work with children and education. However,
there are a few things that make E.I. different.

* unprecedented 98.5% year over year retention rate (compared to 50% nationally)
* frequent home visits
- encouraging children and parents
- problem-solving the barriers to education
* revolutionary peer-to-peer tutoring program
- kids learn better from other kids
- the tutors understand their students...because they have been
there.
- the students respect their tutors....because they have been there.
- it measurably improves the performance of the tutored...and
the tutors!
* 100% local Nicaraguan staff
- culturally sensitive
- credible in the community
- helps the local economy
* community involvement
* a transition plan to turn the program over to the community
- we do not intend to be a fixture in these communities, but will empower them to help themselves