PROJECT BELIZE 

 As the parish concludes its fifth year of support of  Chunox  St. Viator Vocational High School, we present this review of what the project is and what we have accomplished.
 
The Beginnings of Project Belize
In the fall of 2004 the parish council adopted this project as a way to “reach out to our neighbors with the love of Christ”. (parish vision statement).  We already had some association with St. Francis Xavier parish in Corozal Town, Belize, Central America,  which is twenty-six miles from Chunox, and we knew the pastor Father Chris Glancy, CSV, a native of Moline.  With Father Bresnahan a group of our parishioners had traveled to Belize and introduced their parish to the Watch program.
 
Chunox St. Viator Vocational High School
 Located on the outskirts of the village of Chunox, St. Viator Vocational High School, which began in 2003,  combines classroom learning with practical experience. In class the students study a basic high school curriculum as well as the principles of farming, marketing and tourism. On the grounds they plant fruits and vegetables and raise hogs and chickens.
 
 
What We Have Done
Through a variety of fund-raisers St. Maria Goretti parishioners have contributed almost $14,500 for the development of a library and other needs of the school.  At present our fund-raising centers on a winter euchre tourney and a summer benefit play performance by the Richmond Hill Players at the Barn in Geneseo.
 
Plans for activities are developed and executed by a committee of volunteers which includes Lois DeCoster, Karen Bibee, Ralph & Sandy Tornes, Rich Wilks, John & Carol Slavish, Kathy Doyle, Marcia Jacobs, Shirley Van Duyne, Claudia & Tom Saddler, Dale Heiar, Mary Ann Lapaczonek, and Sister Sandra.
 
Current Events  
 “Last Mass at St. Casimir’s”, a comedy at the Barn, was held in June 2009.
 
Our annual euchre tourney will be held after the first of the year.
 
We find these events serve a twofold purpose:  they are lots of fun for us AND they make it possible for us to continue to support this worthwhile cause.  We thank you for your involvement;  know we count on your continued support!