Raising Guatemala has been such a journey spanning over 120 years. My great grandma started this legacy that I have been determined to pick up, grow, and hopefully pass on to my children someday so that the people of Jicaro Guatemala will always have someone caring for them.
I want to keep you posted on what we have been working on and where we are going, because I believe when you chose to get involved with us, you have the right to know how hard we are working with what is given to us. It's not just one trip once a year.
We have been talking for so long about giving our charity federal status so that our donors and supporters can get tax breaks when they support us. That process is one that requires a lot of time and dedication. I own my own business as well as have another job so all of the paperwork to get RG's official status off the ground has been something that I've devoted time to in between everything else in life. It has taken hours upon frustrating hours...days...weeks, to complete the application process. They don't make it easy! Ultimately, none of it would have been possible without one of the most badass women I have ever met...Brigette Polmar, the owner of Brand Spoken. She has been by my side from the start helping brand us, inspire us, and ultimately sat with me while we nail-bit our way through sending in our application. She is the most incredible business woman I have ever met who simultaneously runs her company and her home with such a passion and skill that I feel blessed to have partnered with her. Although she has helped many other charities start up, filing to create an INTERNATIONAL charity was something she had never done before. We had moments where we felt crushed under the amount of research and paperwork so we stalled out a couple times. But she stuck by me and was my rock and we kept at it.
After filling out 30 pages of paperwork, many meetings, way too much coffee, 3 different ink color revisions, and countless sticky notes, our application is submitted and awaiting approval. We should have our answer in 2 to 4 weeks. If we are denied we will have to edit and submit a new document, but we are praying for smooth sailing and appreciate all prayers and good vibes sent our way. We will keep you posted and as always, thank you for sticking by us on journey!
UPDATE COMING SOON