2019 Salomon Klein Visit

My name is Isabel Coughlin and I have had the wonderful privilege of volunteering at Salomon Klein every year since 2013.  During my August 2019 volunteering visit, I saw that the kids learn many different skills in their Montessori classes and afternoon activities. One of those activities is making friendship bracelets. The kids get to choose their own colors and beads and they work with remarkable focus on perfecting their bracelets, only stopping to teach each other a new technique. When I visited with the kids, they were so proud to share their bracelets with me, especially bracelets that were red, yellow, and green, Bolivia's colors. Many of the children at SK have developmental delays or neurological challenges. Children who otherwise have delays or challenges gather around the table with their counterparts and work on their bracelets together. This activity gives the children opportunities to teach each other and take pride in their work. On my last day at SK this August, I told the kids I would be taking their bracelets to share with people in the United States. They all picked out their bracelet they were most proud of and told me to make sure someone would wear it. I hope you all will consider buying a bracelet at our October 5th fundraiser so you can have a constant reminder on your wrist of the hard work, pride, and resilience of the beautiful children of Salomon Klein.