Imagine walking into a small community library in the heart of San Nicolás, Peru. The room hums with energy as children gather around colorful books, their imaginations sparked by new stories and ideas. Parents exchange smiles as they watch their kids, knowing this place is more than just a library—it’s a beacon of hope, a symbol of what’s possible when people come together for a common purpose.

This vision came to life thanks to the tireless efforts of our partner organization, Latidos, and the support of local businesses like Agrícola Cayaltí. Together, they’ve created a safe, welcoming space for learning, where families can connect and grow. But this is just one chapter in Latidos’ incredible story of building resilient communities across the Zaña Basin.

Empowering a Generation

Over the past year, Latidos has reached deep into the heart of their communities, sparking change where it’s needed most.

Take the workshops for children and adolescents, for example. Through sessions on life planning, cultural awareness, and psychosocial risk prevention, 120 students across four schools have discovered their potential to dream bigger and achieve more. These young people aren’t just learning—they’re becoming leaders, equipped with the tools to transform their future.

And it’s not just the kids who are finding their voices. Women in the community are stepping into leadership roles too. Through workshops on entrepreneurship and family well-being, Latidos is helping women harness their strength, build businesses, and advocate for change. They’re forming networks, planning events like a Christmas dinner for women leaders, and showing their communities what empowered women can achieve.

Hope for the Future

Latidos’ impact extends to the elderly as well. Picture senior citizens gathering for a workshop on self-esteem, their laughter filling the room as they share stories and build friendships. These sessions are more than just classes—they’re lifelines, creating a sense of belonging and purpose for older adults in Zaña, Cayaltí, and Mocupe.

Then there are the health campaigns, which have delivered fortified food, organized anemia screenings, and even hosted competitions for healthy cooking. The results? Stronger families, healthier children, and a community inspired to take charge of their well-being.

Cultivating Resilience, Together

Latidos is also tackling environmental challenges head-on. Through their EcoGuardians Program, students are learning to protect their environment by conserving water, planting trees, and reducing waste. These young guardians are already making an impact—250 trees now line riverbanks near their towns, standing as a testament to their dedication.

All of this work is guided by a single goal: to create resilient communities. Latidos connects local groups with regional institutions, private companies, and NGOs, ensuring they have the resources to thrive.

Looking Ahead

The story doesn’t end here. Latidos is already planning for the future. Their upcoming programs include:

  • Expanding literacy: Building new community libraries and strengthening school libraries to ignite a love of reading.
  • Fighting anemia: Launching Superheroes Against Anemia to protect children under five from this preventable condition.
  • Growing leaders: Empowering women and youth to become champions of change in their communities.

Your Role in This Story

This journey of transformation is only possible because of the support of people like you. Every dollar donated, every moment of your attention, fuels the dreams of the people in these communities.

When you join us for events like Share the Love or contribute to Heart-Links, you’re not just giving resources—you’re giving hope. Together, we’re turning the page to a brighter future, one where communities stand strong, resilient, and united.

Let’s keep this story going. Join us in supporting Latidos’ incredible work and become a part of their journey to change lives in Peru. Together, we can write the next chapter.