Los Amigos is a faith-based organization dedicated to supporting programs that improve and transform the lives of the poor of Chimbote, Peru.

 

 
 
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Programs & Services

Economic Opportunity Council

The Economic Opportunity Council (EOC) is a committee operating under the direction of the Los Amigos Board to complement This man is employed as a deliveryman and is bringing crops to market. the services provided through ACAF. Programs include those committed to the creation of small business, employment, scholarship, mentoring and training.  Through Christian principles, the EOC mission is the transformation of individuals into independent and self-supporting members of their community.   The EOC has a strong partnership with Rotary Clubs in Minnesota and Chimbote, Peru and with St. Michael’s Parish in Prior Lake, MN. To learn more, contact EOC Chair Earl Milbrath.
                         

Current EOC Operations in Chimbote

  • Scholarship/leadership program. The Dollars For Scholars Leaders For Tomorrow programs are administered by the Rotary Clubs of Chanhassen, MN and Chimbote, Peru to send young people from the poorest neighborhoods of Chimbote to universities and technical schools in Chimbote and to provide leadership training in the planning and execution of community service projects.   A commitment to fund the students for the duration of their education is made, as long as they meet grade requirements and participate in community service projects. The program commenced in 2002 and has had 17 graduates, who all have found gainful employment. Currently there are 31 students in school. The community service projects have recently focused on recycling and environmental clean up.
  • Micro-lending program. The EOC partners with the Small Business Development Committee of St Michael’s Parish in Prior Lake, MN to provide micro-loans to start and sustain small businesses in Fr. Jack’s parish.  The business is conducted through a Peruvian organization, ASOCIACIÓN DE APOYO A PEQUEÑOS NEGOCIOS PERPETUO SOCORRO.  Under the EOC, its scope has been expanded to poor areas surrounding the parish and to include group lending as commonly found in micro-lending throughout the world.
  • Chimbote Healthy Port program. This recycling business was started in 2007 in Fr. Jack’s parish and in 2008 began expansion to surrounding barrios.  Efforts to promote recycling have been effective, but also have spawned independent collectors who are buying the high plastic recyclables and collection programs in schools which sell the recyclables to competitors.  
  • Chimbote Computer Services. This small Internet café and computer training and repair service business is operated by a graduate of the scholarship/leadership program.  Computer training is provided to adults and students.  
  • Chimbote Sewing Center. This sewing business launched in 2007 and has begun making clothing for sale in Chimbote and in the U.S.