The Story of Our Biblioteca – The Library
When the amazing community of Malingua Pamba and I built the original one-room schoolhouse, I thought I had already checked the “get to heaven free” box — but no!
The following year, we needed more classrooms. Paulino Sacatoro, then-president of Malingua Pamba, suggested that his older brother and two friends build a second story with three rooms. Thanks to many of you, we secured the funding for this project — thank you!
However, I must confess that I didn’t do my due diligence this time. Those who know me may find it hard to believe, but this “Double Checker” didn’t meddle in the design, verify the materials, or review the builders’ skills. As a result, Centro Educativo La Minga is now paying the price for that lack of planning.
Structural Challenges Over the Years
This is now the second time in almost 20 years that the roof (originally intended as the base of a possible third story) of the Colegio Viejo has needed waterproofing and ceiling repairs.
Although this part of the Andes in Ecuador doesn’t get snow, it faces torrential rains and hurricane-force winds. About 15 years ago, a small group of engineers (thank you Drew & Bob) took measurements to see if a third story could be added — unfortunately, it was deemed unsafe.
Being in the Ring of Fire, the region is prone to earthquakes, and structurally, it cannot support more levels. Even attempts to design a lightweight protective roof for the second story have proven challenging due to the extreme weather.
If anyone has innovative ideas, please share them!
Our Local Hero: Ramiro Lara
We are fortunate to have Ramiro Lara leading this project. Ramy, a former teacher at our school, founded both the Chess Club and Woodworking Club. Despite having only two fingers on his right hand, he earned his Ph.D. in Education and now teaches in La Mana. He’s married to our first valedictorian and also our first student to earn both a Master’s and a Ph.D. — Enma Sacatoro. Together, they have a family and continue to inspire everyone.
Ramy truly deserves the title of Hero!
The Library in Use
Coincidentally, as I was preparing this update, our devoted librarian Marcy sent her weekly report. I had asked how often the library was being used, and she included a photo showing one of the teachers using the library.
She wrote (translated):
“Some of our students come in twos or threes several times a day. Others come in groups with their teachers to take computer classes. Another group arrives during recess to do other activities or finish pending work.”
Why the Library Matters
I cannot overstate how important our library and librarian are to this community.
To give you an idea: Marcy earns only $2.50/hour, yet she remains joyful and dedicated.
Ecuador, sadly, is under its third consecutive president who does not support education, and our school now has three fewer teachers this year. Many families cannot afford a personal computer, which is why the ten computers in the library (donated thanks to Buck and the San José school) are in constant use.
If you have a computer to donate, please reach out!
A Fun Update from the Andes
Amy, one of our Board of Directors who now lives in Ecuador, recently visited the site. She’s encouraging local students to interview the elders and document the history of the Kichwa people — much like sixth graders do in Colorado. If this project comes to life, I’ll let you know!
Stay Connected
If you have suggestions, questions, or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact me:
Pam Gilbert
📞 303-543-8223
Warm thoughts and BIG hugs!
And never forget: Tú eres el mejor → You are so fine! 💖
— Pam and the Kichwa in the Andes of Ecuador
Support Ongoing Efforts!
Your generosity helps make clean water, quality education, and opportunity a reality for rural Andean communities.
Every contribution strengthens our ability to expand access, improve lives, and build sustainable, community-owned infrastructure that transforms futures for generations.
Together, we can continue empowering students, families, and entire villages — one project at a time.
Ways to Give
There are several easy and secure ways to support Centro Educativo La Minga, Inc.:
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💌 By Check — Make payable to Centro Educativo La Minga, Inc. and mail it using the enclosed stamped envelope (if this is your preferred method).
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📱 Via Venmo — @Pamelita-Gilbert (last four digits of phone: 8638)
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💻 Through PayPal — Click the DONATE button on our website: www.escuelaminga.org (PayPal processing fee: ~3%)
Every dollar — and every act of kindness — makes a difference.
Thank you for being part of the change.