Access English Classes Begin

At the Biblioteca William Minor (William Minor Library), we are blessed to collaborate with the US Embassys remote English Program entitled Access English. This program runs for two years and is one of the best English programs in the country of Nicaragua. These 26 students all come from families with limited resources from all around the department of Carazo, Nicaragua. Great to see this batch of kids setting goals and working towards a brighter future.

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Updated Contact Info

As a result of our High School Reunion interest (see Columbian article here), I am posting information how to donate to our cause. We are an all volunteer group at Nica Impact and you can be assured that nearly all of your donation makes it to causes in Nicaragua (a small amount is used for general overhead. Less than 5%).  We generate our personal income through other sources.

Thanks to all who contribute in any way possible.

Doug Effinger
Columbia River High School
Class of 1978

Send checks to:

Nica Impact

8410 NW 15^th Court

Vancouver, WA 98665

You will receive a tax donation receipt shortly after.

A recent photo of our students and staff at Nica Impact.  (May 2013)

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Student Training

As North Americans, Julie and I (Doug) are careful with the time we spend with our students. Our intent is to have a predominantly indigenous ministry where our Nicaraguan staff are the principle guides for our students. Having said that, we look for opportunities were we can speak into their lives to implant life skills and values.

The video shows one such opportunity where we took small groups of students (5 at a time) out to a suspended bridge site, hiked up river, and built our own rope bridge. Then we trained them on how to make a Swiss seat and secure themselves to cross the river. The goal was to all cross the river while working as a team. At the same time, we were able to talk about career goals, Hopes and dreams, next steps in life, etc. It was a fantastic time.

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Marling Canizales

Marling is from outside the tourist town of Granada about an hour away, which has its share of extremely poor barrios on the outskirts of town.  Marling is completing her first year in the program. She is studying Computer Sciences (Systems Analyst) at the local University.  She is 19 years old.

Marling has a very strong personality which will help her succeed in life. University studies have been challenging for her, but she is overcoming. She is a very nice girl and adds a lot to the girls home, Casa Esther.

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