Community Planning and Economic Development
Moringa Seed Project (new Project for 2010)
Project Lead: Andy Harjula
The Moringa trees originated in India and Africa. The Moringa tree is also known as the Miracle Tree because of
its many benefits, especially for pregnant women and young children. The Moringa tree has been shown to eradicate
malnutrition in countries where the tree has become available to the population.
The leaves, seeds and pods are edible. In India they have identified 300 diseases the Moringa has shown to prevent
or help cure. The trees begin to grow three weeks after planting. The leaves can be harvested three months later.
On an equal weight basis, the Moringa has:
- 7 times the vitamin C of an orange;
- 4 times the vitamin A of carrots;
- 4 times the calcium of milk;
- 3 times the potassium of bananas;
- 2 times the protein of yogurt;
- In addition, they contain all the amino acid to support life.
The Moringa will be especially important to the Guatemalan villagers because the powder made from the seeds is
able to clarify water and remove 99% of the impurities.
In March of 2010, Mr. Santos lead a party of workers in Guatemala who planted 100 of the Indian Moringa seeds.
These trial trees are growing well and the villagers are using the leaves in their meals.
The objective of this project in 2011 is to plant 7000 Moringa tree seeds. In March 2011 a much larger planting
will occur with the added trial of the African Moringa which is able to grow at higher altitudes. The March 2011
trip will also include workshops on how to grow and care for the Moringa trees.
Baking Project
This project has come a long way and continues to be a success due to the true meaning of community engagement.
The committee in charge of this project is a group of 5 individuals and each of them has specific responsibilities
to make this project work; such as coordination of supplies, marketing, baking, selling and bookkeeping. Their
bakes goods include bread, cakes, pizzas and cookies.
Volcacito's Senior's Project
This project was set out to provide basic daily needs to a group of seniors of the village of Volcancito. The goal
is to provide food, medicines up to 4 times a year.
Rotating Fertilizer Project
This project has been in place for 10 years and continues to be a success in the communities of Timushan, Pena Blanca,
Volcancito, La Vegona and Los Vasques – Taguayni. Each community member signs a contract and the loan is granted
in May of each year and is pay back by February of the following year.
