MISSION
The Sentient Temple Belize,. is a grassroots
non-profit organization committed to strengthening our global
community. We are dedicated to sustainable development in Central
America with primary focus on the conservation of nature;
improvement and support of economic, educational, and health benefit
to local peoples; and respect for culturally diversity through
careful implementation and monitoring of collaborative eco-tourism
with emphasis on R&D in Herbal Medicine.
As peoples of the world become increasingly interdependent we must
all recognize that we live in a global community. The future of this
community depends upon our self-knowledge as well as upon mutual
understanding and respect among diverse cultures. The Sentient
Temple Belize, deepens these roots of our shared community as we
foster personal and international development. The Sentient Temple
Belize, designs community service & cross cultural volunteer
exchange programs, which bring people with different world views
together.
Through our programs, Students from the Western world extend
themselves by living and working with people in small, rural
communities. Appropriate grassroots community development and stays
in Central America are at the core of these experiences. Students
work side by side with villagers on projects selected by the
community such as constructing a school, clinic or community center,
teaching local children, reforesting surrounding areas, water
systems, permaculture, organic gardening or greenhouse construction
to name a few. Our philosophy focuses on empowerment, not pity or
charity. Sentient Temple Belize, volunteers work to empower people
with the skills and knowledge they need to become self-sufficient.
HIV/AIDS In Belize is considered one of the worst
affected countries in the Central America region. A main focus of
the Sentient Temple is an outreach program designed to inform the
general public regarding HIV/AIDS awareness. Knowledge is power.
Education of the population regarding HIV/AIDS is a paramount issue.
Experiential learning covers such areas as
cultural sensitivity, international development, government,
politics, history, philosophy, language, geology, biology, ecology,
economic botany, hydroponics, animal husbandry, physical education,
nutrition and of course, personal transformation and discovery of
oneself. Students reflect on their own lives and situations as they
become immersed in the life of their host community. Programs for
students of all ages are designed to facilitate personal growth,
contribution, adventure, and cross-cultural understanding. This
observational period leads to enhanced self-esteem and a desire to
continue on a path of service even after they return home.
The initial task of the Sentient Temple Belize is to establish an
on-site sustainable housing complex/eco-reserve to house the growing
numbers of volunteers coming to participate in our programs. In the
past we have relied upon staying in various commercial lodges, but
as the project has grown, we see the value of investment and growth
potential by having secured our own land to have a "local" project
base and development center. The monies saved by conducting the
programs in our own facility will enable a broader outreach and
volunteering opportunity. We are developing this land within a
community-managed conservation area in Belize, Cayo District,
Central America.
Tourist conservation awareness, sustainable farming, dietary, health
and wellness enhancement, inspired outreach and cultural education
are among the immediate endeavors with long-term objectives to
improve the quality of life for local peoples. Our Program
volunteers go home empowered and with a sense of accomplishment that
one person can and does make a difference. By directly practicing
simple living while working through common sense solutions alongside
villagers, our volunteers are introduced to their own important role
and power in global change.
The Sentient Temple Belize relies upon tax-deductible donations
of monies, raw materials, health and educational products, and labor
resources to meet our objectives.
PEOPLE HELPING PEOPLE IN NEED
The
Sentient Temple is a non-profit organization. All proceeds go into the
growth and expansion of The Sentient Temple.
Please mail your tax deductible donation to:
Sentient Temple
9085 US Highway 19 N.
Pinellas Park, FL 33782
Donation with credit card or e-check on line via PayPal:
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