So, I just wanted to make an attempt at getting things flowing here again--trying to build more of a community in this space. This is partially because I'm REALLY starting my journey now and can use the help and advice (I'm in Marfa, Texas and planning on crossing the border in a few days) but also for the less selfish reason that I just think it could be a really valuable thing for everyone. I talked to the big-wigs at Idealist and threw them some ideas--it'd be cool to be able to post pictures of places, have more integration with other similar forums (check out idealistas.org, by-the-by, if you speak spanish it's got more posts than the english version), have some sort of chat function, etc. But really it's up to us to get things going...
Some ideas for all of us: if you've got a minute just post something relating some of your own experiences in the americas or why you joined this group, ideas for improvement of the group, questions, anything...really it'd be good just to get some stuff going so if you're a member of this group and you haven't posted anything yet (there are 50 of us so that's most of y'all) why not just introduce yourself and say a little something. Also, I'm interested in some of the bigger things people think about this hemisphere: the big political and philosophical questions--anyone got any? Hope everyone is well. Paz,

GABE
REAL
BASS

Hi,
My name is Dianna Perez and I am a filmmaker. My partner and I run a video production company where we do complete video production services. I would love to take a video system to an area of need and teach video production so that they will have this powerful medium as a means of sharing their stories. If you know of an opportunity or would like to create one for us to partner with an organization to do this or somthing similar or even something completely new that we come up with, please contact me and we can discuss. Best to you all!
Dianna

Hi,
My name is Laura Wheelock. My partner, Markus Naugle and I founded a non-profit educational program called Magic Carpet Rides to encourage high school graduates to take a "gap year" engaging in international service before college. We are launching our program in Guatemala this spring semester with 5 students (mid-January through mid-May). After 6 weeks of Spanish immersion to gain language skills, students volunteer with local NGOs. Group activities and retreats throughout the semester provide opportunities for reflection. We have 2 slots available, with the potential for full scholarship for curious, responsible high school graduates (18-19 years of age). Please spread the word!

We hope to make a gap year a social trend in the US (as it is in Europe) so that all students step off the treadmill after high school and broaden their perspectives in the global classroom. In today's shrinking world inter-cultural understanding is paramount.

Dianna, we commend your desire to share the gift of video production. If you provide some guidance, we are happy to keep our eyes out for fertile areas in Guatemala. If you are interested in learning more about our vision, please see www.MagicCarpetRides.org.

Thank you! Laura

Laura,
What an incredible idea! I have a daughter who is 14 years old and I would love for her to have that experience after she graduates. I saw your website, too - so exciting!
As to sharing the gift of video production (I like the way you phrased it), here are some ideas. We offer teaching services on the equipment and the creative process. We can teach the adults in an organization and/or also the young adults. For the NGO's we offer discounted weekly rates. Depending on the organization and their circumstances, we can be quite flexible. We'd like to do this because it's important and can be very powerful. Along with teaching the skills, we are also available to do video projects for any company or organization in need. We are also fully-bilingual (English and Spanish). Thanks for keeping an eye out. If you need any videos done, we'd love to help you out.
You may reach my partner Ernesto by phone at 323-286-2011 or feel free to email us at carcahadas@yahoo.com.
Thanks again!
Dianna

Hey Dianna,
When I was in Venezuela for the World Social Forum a couple years ago, I met some young people who had been doing some documentary work in the barrios around Caracas. I can't remember which barrio it was where I met them--maybe La Vega. They were working with a collective called Calle y Media--http://www.calleymedia.org/. (The website appears incomplete.) The kids / young adults were visibly excited about the work and they lit up when talking about it. It seemed like very important work (providing a way for kids growing up in the barrios to have a voice), and I imagine there's a need for much more of this.
Also, do you know the Chiapas Media Project--http://www.chiapasmediaproject.org/cmp/index.html? Another inspiring example of this kind of work. They tour with their videos, so keep an eye out in your area.
Those are my thoughts.
Susan
ps--I may be returning to Venezuela next year for a year or so, and if this happens I could help with connections.

BAM! That's what I'm talking about--look at the helpfulness and community sharing...
Those all sound like really interesting projects. Makes me wish I was still in Highschool so I could do that program... I'm a bit of a filmaker myself--I'm hoping to do a little documentary/journalism work while I'm travelling. I'll have to look into some of those other programs too...
Anyway, thanks for getting on it--keep up the great work. Alright Americas Exchange!--'Exchanging the Americas every day...'

GABE
REAL
BASS

Hi all, I've been reading these updates for a while and now I have something to add. Peace Villages, in Santa Elena d eUraien, Venezuela is looking for a fundraiser/grant writer. It is a volunteer position but I spoke with several people and it seems like a really cool initiative. It also seems like an organization that would welcome new projects and ideas. It is posted on idealist, I was offered the position but I cannot take it because of other committments! If you are anyone you know is interested definately contact them mail@peacevillages.org. www.Peacevillages.org
Best of Luck
Marta

Hi Everyone. My name is Alicia and I am currently in Quito, Ecuador volunteering with the NGO Centro de la nina trabajadora (CENIT). The general goal of the organization is to give children of poor working families in the south of Quito a chance to rise out of poverty and create a better life for themselves. I am really enjoying itthus far. If you are interested in volunteering I reccomend this organization - especially considering that this is one of the few organizations that you do NOT have to pay $2,000 to volunteer. check out the website www.cenitecuador.org if you are interested.

I will be here for 4 months, maybe longer...after which I have no idea what I want to do. I just graduated from university last May and am still a bit of a lost soul. haha. I am thinking either of traveling, going back to the U.S. to find some kind of international job, or finding a job in Argentina. I lived there for 5 months during school and absolutely love the country. If any one know so any opportunities, let me know!
Alicia