A group of artists, architects and archaeologists motivated in part by the tireless efforts of K. Pierce have volunteered to work with the residents of Indian Church Village in Belize to help them establish a local craft workshop, or artisan industry, to produce quality Mayan handicrafts that they can sell to tourists. Our efforts also include education-based programs, including a library and literacy workshops, as well as a scholarship program. We hope this will eventually provide an economic and educational base for many of the people who live in this very rural town (a town that doesn’t even have electricity and whose school ends for students at 13!).
Indian Church Village Craftsmen, Belize (ICVA)
In the summer of 2000, we were awarded a small grant to teach crafts to the people of the Indian Church village in Belize and help integrate the community with the Lamanai archaeological site. We have been working on this craft training project ever since. In recent years many art workshops have been held for the residents of Indian Church Village. We are emphasizing Mayan art, especially that found at the Lamanai site, as well as the revival of ancient artisan traditions. There are now four groups and they include metal smiths, potters, stone carvers, and a sewing group.
A community-based organization called Indian Church Village Artisans (ICVA) has been formed and registered with the government of Belize. We received a grant from the British High Commission to build a craft center in the village. The building was completed in 2003 and it is now vital to continue to seek additional funds for tools and equipment, as well as funds to teach more classes. The project was also funded through the efforts of K. Pierce of Rotary International and the Belize Social Investment Fund (SIF), which has provided a reliable solar power system, classes, and supplies for the artisans.
Indian Church Village Library
The Indian Church Village Library in Belize It was opened in July 2004, is open 4 days a week, offers summer reading incentive programs, adult literacy courses, and a trusted place for students to study. Recent fundraising efforts secured an annual salary for the librarian, built a 10 ‘x 16’ addition, and added shelves and other necessary furniture. He continues to need support, both financially and through donating supplies. The librarian has been trained through workshops by the Belize National Library Service (BNLS).
Indian Church Village Scholarship Program
There are about 9 students from Indian Church Village in Belize who have received a scholarship and go to school after 13 years old (which is the typical age to stop because there is no school nearby AND it is very expensive to continue their education). A Canadian non-profit organization called SHARE has played an important role in this, as well as in K. Pierce’s private fundraising efforts. These students have to travel at least 1 hour away (about 2 hours) and need to stay in a safe home during the week in order to go to middle and high school. The cost of this is beyond the reach of many residents of this small and remote village.
Beyond Touring an ecotourism company which promotes ecological and heritage tourism opportunities in part, financially supports this community improvement project.
