Some tourists combine their holidays with a good cause, like Krzysztof Harazinski and Beata Kapcewicz from Poland. They travelled to many countries and this time they were visiting Peru. They contacted us via Internet and decided to raise money for us (and the nice thing was they came to visit us and handed over the donation). It was an interesting and very nice visit. For them and for us. It is always very motivating to receive guests and show them what we’re doing!
So I was curious to know why, what, how etc. and they answered the questions, which you can read here.
How did you get involved to combine vacation and charity?
Kris: I had a call to do something extra since I can’t devote my time to working as a volunteer I can at least raise some money for those in need. It’s also a very common practice in the UK to raise fund while embarking on some interesting projects*. Some people raise money while running a marathon, I raise while travelling. (*Kris currently lives in the UK).
Beata: We used to be involved in social issues for many years. We have decided to do some social activity, because it helps to get to know the real country, you visit, not only touristic entertainment but real people with their true stories, needs, problems and hopes.
How did you come in contact with PAZ-Holandesa?
Kris: Via google search! Well done on your positioning! I was searching for a credible and trustworthy organisation and the information I received from PAZ-H were very satisfactory.
Beata: We were googling and found some charities in Peru. Kris started to exchange e-mails with you and found you and your project credible.
How did you raise the money?
Kris: In 95% virtually by sending emails to friends who were transferring their donations to my special bank account created for this cause.
Beata: We just sent some e-mails to our friends with detailed information about the foundation and your projects and some of them decided to support P-H.
Are you content with what PAZ-Holandesa says on her site and visiting the reality?
Kris: What I’ve seen was in fact overwhelming. Positively, of course. A brand new children hospital, although still in progress, is a fantastic and challenging venture. I wish you all the best in accomplishing this mission!
Beata: We didn’t expect that the project had such an extensive size. We hoped to find a small charity with rather small projects. We find the concept of your hospital and the Robin Hood model really amazing. It is hard to imagine that one person has dedicated her life to make Peru a better place to live for children and their parents. Facing so many difficulties and obstacles, but still has a faith and power to push it forward. We keep our fingers crossed for you Marjan and your life changing project. You have us and our friends on your side.