56 Years of CADEP J.M.A: Over a Decade of Impact with Advance Community
By: Julieta Larios, International Program Director
As we celebrate the 56th anniversary of El Centro Andino de Educación y Promoción “José María Arguedas” (CADEP J.M.A), we reflect on the incredible journey of this non-profit organization, which has championed the rights of indigenous communities in the rural areas of Peru. Since its inception in 1968, CADEP J.M.A has been a beacon of hope in the southern highlands of Peru, particularly in the Cusco and Apurímac regions.
CADEP J.M.A has focused on promoting women’s rights, preventive health education in rural communities, and the defense of human rights. Their commitment to these causes has only grown stronger over the years, evolving to address the needs of the communities they serve. Today, their work spans a broad spectrum of initiatives aimed at fostering intercultural education, empowering indigenous Quechua communities, and promoting sustainable environmental management.
For the past ten years, CADEP J.M.A has partnered with Advance Community to address the challenges faced by vulnerable rural populations, especially women and children. This collaboration has led to the successful implementation of numerous projects, including irrigation systems, food security initiatives, improved cooking facilities, preventive health campaigns, surgical missions, and research endeavors. Together, we have made a difference in the lives of those who need it most, and this partnership continues to thrive as we pursue new avenues for impact.
Below, I’d like to highlight some of the ongoing initiatives and projects we are currently supporting:
1. Organizational Strengthening and Natural Resource Management in Rondocan, Acomayo, Cusco
In the district of Rondocan, CADEP J.M.A has been instrumental in enhancing the organizational capacities of community leaders and ensuring the sustainable management of natural resources. The project “Organización Comunal y Manejo de Recursos Naturales – Llaqtanchis Tikarinampaq” has empowered local leaders to actively participate in decision-making processes, leading to the implementation of key community initiatives such as water harvesting, improved irrigation systems, and livestock management.
2. Casa de la Niña Nación Q’ero: Supporting Girls’ Education in Chua Chua, Paucartambo, Cusco
In the remote community of Chua Chua, CADEP J.M.A has established the Casa de la Niña Q’ero, a vital project aimed at ensuring the educational continuity of Indigenous girls from the Nation Q’ero. This initiative provides housing, meals, and personalized academic support to help these young girls thrive in their educational pursuits.
3. The Voice of the People: Llaqtanchis Tikarinampaq Radio Project in Rondocan, Acomayo, Cusco
Recognizing the power of communication, CADEP J.M.A launched a community radio station in Rondocan to create a space for dialogue on critical issues such as climate change, gender violence, and the rights of Quechua communities. This platform has become an essential tool for cultural preservation, education, and community empowerment.
Exciting News: Surgical Missions Expanding to Cusco!
In July, I had the privilege of conducting an exciting site visit alongside Maria Valenzuela, our Chief Program Officer. We toured the Cusco Regional Hospital and met with the Cusco Regional Health Department in collaboration with CADEP J.M.A. to explore the possibility of starting Surgical Missions in Cusco. Having overseen many successful missions in Abancay, Apurímac, I was thrilled to see the enthusiasm for expanding our work to Cusco. The site visit was a success, and I’m delighted to share that as of late July, we finalized the agreement to begin Surgical Missions in Cusco for the very first time!
Looking Ahead!
As we celebrate 56 years of CADEP J.M.A’s remarkable work, we also look forward to the future with hope and optimism. The challenges facing rural communities in Peru are significant, but with continued support and collaboration, we are confident that CADEP J.M.A will continue to lead the way in promoting intercultural education, sustainable development, and the empowerment of indigenous peoples!
We invite you to join us in this journey, as we build on this legacy of impact and work towards a brighter, more equitable, and promising future for all.
Interested in learning more about volunteering for surgical missions? Contact me at [email protected] or (602) 612-4644.
Would you like to support life-changing initiatives like this? Donate here.