A newly constructed classroom in Los Manguitos, Honduras, was dedicated in memory of longtime Port Isabel resident Mary Gorball through the nonprofit Hands to Honduras. The new school will provide local children with a permanent place to learn while honoring Gorball’s legacy of generosity and community service.
Students arrive by boat for their first day at the newly completed school in Los Manguitos, Honduras. The classroom was built through Hands to Honduras and dedicated in memory of Port Isabel resident Mary Gorball. (courtesy photo/Tom Plumb)
By DIANTÉ MARIGNY
editor@portisabelsouthpadre.com
The generosity of several Port Isabel residents is helping provide educational opportunities for children hundreds of miles away through the nonprofit organization Hands to Honduras.
Over the past year, the organization has completed several school construction projects in Honduras, including two classrooms dedicated in honor of longtime Port Isabel supporters whose contributions continue to make a difference for future generations.
A kindergarten classroom in the community of Colón was dedicated in memory of Richard and Joan Alexander, longtime summer residents of Port Isabel. Another one-classroom school in Los Manguitos was dedicated in honor of the late Mary Gorball of Port Isabel.
According to Hands to Honduras, the new facilities replace temporary or inadequate learning spaces, giving students permanent classrooms where they can learn in a safe environment.
In addition to the projects honoring Port Isabel residents, the organization also completed an elementary classroom in La Atascosa, where students had previously been taught outdoors, a kindergarten in Chacalapa honoring Paul and Jan Combs, and another kindergarten classroom in Ilanga dedicated to the memory of Conrad Mentjes of Austin.
Hands to Honduras works to improve educational opportunities in rural Honduran communities by funding and constructing classrooms and schools where resources are limited. Many of the projects are made possible through donations from individuals and families who choose to honor loved ones through lasting educational investments.
The organization plans to begin construction on another kindergarten classroom in the community of Holanda Linda once fundraising is complete.
Supporters say each completed classroom represents more than just a new building—it provides children with a permanent place to learn while honoring the legacy of individuals whose generosity continues to impact lives beyond their own communities.
Those interested in learning more about Hands to Honduras or supporting future school construction projects may contact the organization for additional information.