Build 10 Roofs + Train 10 Carpenters in PuertoRico

"I feel empowered," Marilyn responded when asked how she feels participating in the classes offered by PRoTechos. 

Marilyn, along with her husband (Félix), are active apprentices in our class #10. Marilyn describes her experience as 'súper enriquecedora´ or ‘amazingly fulfilling’'. She also expressed that despite her previous experience working elsewhere, Marilyn had never had the opportunity to be in a space where she felt like part of a big family. According to her, ‘the atmosphere of our workshops has empowered her enormously and she has learned a lot’. Marilyn expresses feeling very grateful for this unique opportunity. 

Félix shares his experience in our workshops as “very positive”. Although he had previous experience in construction work, he feels especially proud to be able to help other families rebuild their roofs. His own experience of being left homeless after Hurricane Maria, and ‘living under a leaky and broken roof for many years’, motivates him to do more for others. Félix describes feeling a renewed energy and a sense of purpose in learning and at the same time being able to help others.

The stories of Marilyn and Félix reflect the direct impact that the support of the donations received has on participation in our workshops. Living in Guayanilla and with workshops in other communities, Hormigueros, Cabo Rojo, and San Germán, transportation challenges were significant for Marilyn and Félix, who did not have the economic resources to cover transportation costs. However, thanks to the donations received through the GlobalGiving platform, PRoTechos was able to sponsor the pair and help them overcome this obstacle and continue attending classes.

These testimonies remind us of the importance of providing access to educational and developmental opportunities, especially for those facing economic and transportation challenges. The emotional impact and empowerment experienced by Marilyn and Félix are a living testimony to how our activities can transform lives and entire communities.

Your support not only helps our organization cover materials and tools needed for the reconstruction of homes in Puerto Rico, it also helps us achieve our mission to create a network of carpenters with the knowledge and skills necessary to respond when the next hurricane hits. Without your donations, our mission would not be possible. Thank You!