Pro Nica: A Quaker Project in Nicaragua

ProNica's Mission
ProNica’s mission is to assist in the creating and sustaining of programs by and for the Nicaraguan people, recognizing that these need to be self-help projects initiated by Nicaraguans which hold promise for grassroots growth, arise from Nicaraguan needs and tradition, and promote empowerment.

ProNica’s priorities are on community cohesiveness and economic development, training in non-violent procedures, health, education, agriculture and women’s empowerment. We seek to link in solidarity Nicaraguan people with concerned individuals internationally to promote understanding and mutual action. Education of those, both in the U.S. and Nicaragua , who seek information or to be of service is part of our mission.

In Nicaragua, ProNica maintains an administrative office, El Centro de Los Amigos ( Friends Center ) and a guest house, Casa Cuáquera (Quaker House). Quaker House provides hospitality to volunteers and travelers, is a place of Worship and a resource center.

ProNica plays a unique role in the support of our project partners. As a relatively minor source of funding, we offer greater flexibility in ways that larger funding agencies cannot. Our continued presence in Nicaragua benefits our project partners.

ProNica is present to respond to emergencies, such as Hurricane Felix in 2007. We attend our partner’s general meetings and social functions. We introduce our partners to potential funding sources. Our personal interest allows us to better understand our partner’s basic needs, to assist in finding solutions to problems, and to offer moral support. The resulting cultural exchange benefits all.

Quaker principles of Simplicity, Peace, Integrity, Community and Equality guide ProNica. This service project arose out of our deep concern over international exploitation of people and resources and our wish to respond in practical and constructive ways. During the embargo from 1987 to 1995, we gathered and shipped supplies in 40-foot containers. Currently, we raise funds to support our project partners to purchase equipment and materials, thus promoting commerce within Nicaragua .

Our work is accomplished by an international core of dedicated volunteers and staff who practice Quaker principles of consensus decision making, respecting that of God in everyone.

ProNica, Incorporated is a 501(c)(3) tax exempt corporation under the spiritual care of the Southeastern Yearly Meeting of the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers). with offices in St. Petersburg , Florida and Managua , Nicaragua . In 2007 ProNica was officially registered as a non-government organization (NGO) in Nicaragua.

Look for its web page for the Managua worship group.
There is also small guest house (Casa Cuáquera), http://pronica.org/quakerhouse/