Hands For Peace Making

Posted by James Monroe 
 
Pete Kinch, Snohomish Rotarian & Director of the Foundation, gave a presentation at our regular meeting, June 19, 2009, about the Hands For Peace Making Foundation founded by Dr. Leonn & Virginia Aller. Dr. Aller started the Snohomish Physicians medical clinic and was the founding Scoutmaster of Troop 50 in Snohomish.

The Aller's traveled to Barillas, Guatemala in the mid-80's, during a violent, lengthy civil war, to help the people in the area with medical and education needs. They developed a medical clinic and established a school. Initially, the trip took two days from Guatemala City, 200 miles away. Today it takes about 14 hours. Since then the Aller's traveled to Boreas many times to build on the initial successes of the clinic and school including the construction of a mission house.

Dr. Aller made contact with the Rotary Club of Snohomish for additional funding. The Club in partnership with other Rotary Clubs in District 5050, have continued to support the initial work of the Aller's. For example, today, the Rotary Club of Burlington is taking five students from their community to see first hand what International Service is about.

The Foundation is looking to complete the Aller Center in Barillas. The Center will provide skills training and jobs for teh people of rural Guatemala.

For more information about Hands For Peace Making Foundation, click here.