Support
1.) Read and Write
Knowing that they are part of the global conversation is a strong motivator for many participants. When they receive a comment or email from an individual from another part of the country, continent or world, it creates the realization that what they write is important. Take the time to read some of the participant entries and let them know that you are reading their articles. You can find links to their blogs: El Alto I, El Alto II, Santa Cruz. If you do not read in Spanish, please read and comment on some selected articles translated into English.
2.) Underwrite
Even though a large part of the work of Voces Bolivianas is on a volunteer-basis, there are costs associated with ensuring that these workshops remain at no cost for participants, who primarily come from lower socio-economic communities in Bolivia. Please consider underwriting a component of a project. Voces Bolivianas is working with Chip In, a way to donate online. If you have questions, please write to info [at] vocesbolivianas [dot] org.
One Saturday Workshop:
15-18 participants are given instruction on how to create their own blog and in the use of digital photography, video and audio in one of three Saturday workshops. We offer these workshops free of charge. The funds goes towards the rental of the internet café, snacks for the participants, manual photocopies, and overhead projector rental.
Translation
Bolivia has four official languages. In addition to Spanish, three additional indigenous languages are spoken by these groups, Quechua, Aymara and Guaraní. Voces Bolivianas works with students majoring in these languages to provide translations and coordinate other volunteers. These funds are provided as honorariums and to pay for internet usage for the translators.
Rural Telecentro Workshops
A new project will be launched soon in the rural countryside, where “Telecentros” (tele-centers) are established providing free internet access to residents. However, many of these facilities lack proper training and maintenance. Voces Bolivianas will provide one-day workshops teaching residents how to use blogs and other digital media to tell the stories of their communities. The project will also utilize the help of past participants of Voces Bolivianas projects. These funds will help pay for transportation costs, as well as materials for use during the workshop.
3.) Donate Used Digital Camera
A component of the workshops is the use of digital photography so that the participants can show a little more of life in their communities. Brand new cameras have proven to be too costly for the project, and we are exploring possibilities of receiving used cameras, but in good working conditions. If you have a used camera that is still in good working conditions, please consider donating. Please write to info [at] vocesbolivianas [dot] org.
