Planting Seeds—a year of transition, a year of success

Elizabeth Knowles

Planting Seeds International, has completed its first year of service since transitioning from Oneness Through Service–Guatemala, founded by Susan and Richard Schmaltz, now of Sandy Hill. The annual fundraising dinner will be held on Saturday, May 5, at St. Joseph Parish Hall, 174 Wilbrod Street. The dinner will bring together the Canadian-based Board of Directors, representatives of the U.S. and Guatemalan Board of Directors as well as front line workers Shannon Moyle of Sandy Hill and Maclane Phillips with the local long-time volunteer work teams, donors and new supporters.

Planting Seeds International, a not for profit organization, works to support people living in extreme poverty in Guatemala, but also seeks to break down the structures that keep them impoverished.

The Planting Seeds philosophy of education and method of instruction continues to flourish in Guatemala. Over the last eighteen years, the rote based learning tradition has transitioned to the more holistic Planting Seeds approach in many communities

With the organization’s expansion, the mission has grown to include not only educational initiatives but also to raising funds to build a community centre. The purpose is to expand its reach within the community and provide more comprehensive services to better support children and families living in extreme poverty.

The May 5 evening will run between 6:30 and 9:30 p.m. and will include a three-course catered meal, a silent auction, cash bar, entertainment and a mercado/market of Guatemalan handicrafts. Tickets are $50 each and can be purchased by calling Aileen at 613-234-9012. An income tax receipt for approximately $30 per ticket is available.

For information on the organization see the Planting Seeds website: plantingseedsinternational.org