Goodbye Celebrations at The Colour of Hope

As many of our supporters already know, I will be returning to the UK on the 15th July with a view to staying there permanently. I have been directing The Colour of Hope’s work in Peru since 2007, and have worked with children and young people out here for the best part of the last eight years. But now I need to begin thinking about my own personal development and what the next step will be for me.

Although we won’t be running the same project for the time being, The Colour of Hope will continue to exist as a funding body, redirecting any funds that haven’t yet been allocated into other similar effective and trustworthy projects in Peru. Those of you who make regular donations are very welcome to continue to do so if you feel it appropriate.

A couple of days ago, we had a small get-together here at The Colour of Hope to celebrate all the good times we’ve shared and the skills we’ve all learnt. Many of the young people and families we’ve supported over the last few years were present at the gathering, as well as some of the local volunteers who’ve helped us along the way. In true Peruvian style, there was a place for both tears and laughter, sadness and joy. Each of the young people gave thanks for what they've learnt and then the music was turned up and the little ones (and some of us big ones!) started dancing. As usual, everyone enjoyed the cake, fizzy drinks and other party nibbles.

I will leave Peru with mixed feelings; sad that it is the end of an era, but content and confident that each of our young people will continue to improve their lives, putting what they have learnt into practice. Of course it will take some much longer than others to truly get on the straight and even, but the overall atmosphere at the gathering was one of progress and hope for the future.

Thank you to each and every one of the people who has supported The Colour of Hope and our work over the last few years, albeit by giving your time, financial aid, advice, positive thoughts or any other form of help. Great work has been done here, work that would not have been possible without you.

Amy New, Project Director, Lima - Peru