St. Mary Mission Water Project in Tohatchi, NM

At our last meeting, Phil Zepeda spoke about our recent District Grant proposal to improve the present infrastructure that provides water to the Nahavo residents served by St. Mary, St. Joseph and St. Anthony Missions in Tohatchi, New Mexico. Phil and Manish collaborated on a quick grant proposal and it was submitted in time for consideration for funding in 2014 - 15. In addition, $2500 from our RCAAN Foundation was earmarked for the project.

 

I would like to share a little background information on the project and the community's needs so that you are aware of the work that we are doing. The following is an excerpt from the proposal as written by Phil Zepeda:

 

"The combined Missions provide schooling, after school children's activities, Adult Education, cultural education to advance the Navajo culture, community building, language training, and opportunities for service for Easter High School students to work on the mission. Without water, the work of the mission cannot continue."

 

The total cost for the project is estimated to be $15,000 including materials and supplies. In addition to the funds set aside in our Foundation, Phil made a generous stock contribution to match an equally generous donation made by Dr. Steve Modell.  Phil is also reaching out to Rotary clubs in Clermont, Florida, and to the Las Cruses and Grants Rotary clubs in New Mexico. We will keep you apprised of future developments and thank Phil and Manish for their leadership on this project.