Provide support, strive to identify resources, empower individuals and mobilize communities for the greater good of helping people help themselves.
Why is it important?
- Since 1999, Cornerstone Foundation’s work has been based on the mission to help people help themselves, and aid organizations and social service offices in meeting their goals. They provide a crucial link in the gathering and distribution of information and resources for the people of Western Belize. Cornerstone Foundation strives to be involved in the development and empowerment of their community.
- Women of Belize face a variety of challenges. Cornerstone Foundation provides resources and serves as a refuge for women seeking a safe environment to learn new skills, fellowship and receive support. They offer training courses in sewing, cooking, computers, jewelry making and job skills, in addition to domestic violence support and women-centered event planning.
- Poverty impacts about a third of the population in Belize. Even with government provided healthcare, a lack of basic nutrition and inadequate water sanitation remain immediate concerns for many residents. Cornerstone Foundation is working to combat these and other issues by offering health education and outreach, support for seniors, individual physical and occupational therapy, special education tutoring, clinical work and a natural healing program.
- Dozens of youth in San Ignacio and Santa Elena are impacted by Cornerstone Foundation programs and services each day. They offer mentoring, life skills training, tutoring, summer camps and courses, mural painting and other activities to area youth as alternatives to negative influences that exist in the community. Key initiatives also include improving literacy rates, HIV/AIDS awareness, and crime and drug prevention.
- Raising awareness of the HIV/AIDS epidemic in Belize is a priority for Cornerstone Foundation. Youth and those living in poverty are most at risk for contracting the disease. Though cultural stigmas about HIV/AIDS persist, open discussions are critical in fighting the spread of the disease. Cornerstone uses community outreach initiatives and partnerships with local and national programs to educate the public about prevention and disease management.
- The burden of poverty in the community is a leading concern for Cornerstone Foundation. Each day they provide nearly 100 hot meals to children and elderly residents in need, and assist those with disabilities who are unable to prepare their own food. In addition, they offer medical assistance and special clinics for those struggling to pay added healthcare costs. They also provide emergency preparedness services when natural disasters threaten. On average, Cornerstone provides 1,330 meals monthly.
- Financial strain and poor-performing public schools severely impact literacy in Belize. While public school education is free, annual registration fees, uniforms, books and supplies are substantial costs for families. High rates of grade repetition, a hefty dropout rate and low achievement on standardized tests plague schools nationwide. Cornerstone Foundation offers courses in ESL, computers and English, scholarships and other programs to counter these challenges.
- Cornerstone Foundation is strengthened by the work of dedicated volunteers, therefore their Community Linking program gives groups of six or more volunteers an opportunity to complete a project that will benefit the community. From mural painting to building projects to health clinics, the possibilities are endless. They work with these groups by providing project coordination, transportation to the project site, activity supplies and equipment.
