It’s hard to put into words the feelings and experiences we have shared over the past few weeks. There are the unique, but now familiar, sights and sounds of the cities and countryside…pigs wander without fences, burrows around every bend. But more importantly, there is the sheer excitement of being in such a wonderful country with people I am proud to claim as friends. Over the past three years we have learned, shared, and made amazing accomplishments.
The CITTI Project is not a one person show by any means. It is true teamwork of
people with talents, passion, and collaborative spirit. There is Gladys, our Ecuadorian Director, who never stops. Her day is full of meetings, phone calls, and constant hands – on in her community. Her fervor to make a difference leaves the rest of us clamoring to keep up. The success of the CITTI Project has much to do with Gladys’ contributions and commitment to the organizations within the Tungurahua Region. (picture: Gladys (left) with Bridgett)
This year, we have had the fortune to have our own whirlwind of a team, especially our very own project coordinator, Andrea De Leon. Andrea, already a world traveler and skillful planner, managed to keep up with Gladys in preparation for our travels, meetings, and social gatherings. What I find most incredible about Andrea is her ability to tackle any issue, her unique insights to culture and the wisdom that comes from her life experiences. For some, this would be enough, but in Andrea’s case, she is an amazing teacher as well. (picture: Andrea shown with two children of Huambalo.)
We also took on the task this year of compiling a Visual Guide. While it is often
difficult for me to delegate, I found complete trust, comfort, and appreciation for the talented team who have been charged to pull this off. From the time I first approached Stacy Springer to lead this team I knew my choice was right. She brings a steady, professional approach to an otherwise daunting and overwhelming task. (picture: Stacy)
The CITTI Project is not a one person show by any means. It is true teamwork of
people with talents, passion, and collaborative spirit. There is Gladys, our Ecuadorian Director, who never stops. Her day is full of meetings, phone calls, and constant hands – on in her community. Her fervor to make a difference leaves the rest of us clamoring to keep up. The success of the CITTI Project has much to do with Gladys’ contributions and commitment to the organizations within the Tungurahua Region. (picture: Gladys (left) with Bridgett)
This year, we have had the fortune to have our own whirlwind of a team, especially our very own project coordinator, Andrea De Leon. Andrea, already a world traveler and skillful planner, managed to keep up with Gladys in preparation for our travels, meetings, and social gatherings. What I find most incredible about Andrea is her ability to tackle any issue, her unique insights to culture and the wisdom that comes from her life experiences. For some, this would be enough, but in Andrea’s case, she is an amazing teacher as well. (picture: Andrea shown with two children of Huambalo.)We also took on the task this year of compiling a Visual Guide. While it is often
difficult for me to delegate, I found complete trust, comfort, and appreciation for the talented team who have been charged to pull this off. From the time I first approached Stacy Springer to lead this team I knew my choice was right. She brings a steady, professional approach to an otherwise daunting and overwhelming task. (picture: Stacy) 
contributions to the Visual Guide have been invaluable. Thanks to Chaya, the CITTI Project has secured funding and has ironed out a solid plan to completing the job with integrity. (picture: Chaya (right) with Bridgett)
We are also fortunate to be joined this year by Diane Dew, whose enthusiasm for quality while having fun has rounded out the team. Diane's zeal for photography combined with her thoughtful, compassionate insights has been a personal treat to witness. (picture: Diane shown taking photos for the visual guide.)
Every one of our team members are amazing. Sonia Thacher has a special knack for working with teachers and playing with the children. She is a kid-magnet. Sonia has beautiful way with words that connects concepts to reality. The CITTI Project team has several times been grateful for her ability to put into words what we have otherwise grappled with. (picture: Sonia with children in Ambato.)Lynn Gitlow offers her years of professional expertise, her ability to absorb what is going on around her. Mixing her skills with her observations a special brew of innovations emerges. Then she sits back and let’s other’s take the credit.
Thank goodness for Dennis Martin. Dennis has a way with tools! We just need to throw him an idea and he manages to craft what is needed. I think the thing I most admire is his sensitivity and respect for his Ecuadorian compadres. His creations are truly a cultural collaboration. (picture: Lynn and Dennis)
Maggie Morales is a anchor in the CITTI Project. Being part of our core team for 4 years, in three countries, she uniquely 
represents the essence of who we are. I constantly learn from her example, marvel at her kindness, and appreciate her consistent, professional, compassionate contributions. (picture: Maggie)
represents the essence of who we are. I constantly learn from her example, marvel at her kindness, and appreciate her consistent, professional, compassionate contributions. (picture: Maggie)Communication has grown to become an increased area of concern within the organizations and schools we have worked with here in Ecuador. Thanks to Mimi Deegan, we have experienced a rich and transformative
ability to tackle the issues. When our hearts 
were aching from questions about “when will my child be able to talk”, Mimi was able to patiently, consistently, and considerately lead them through a paradigm shift, helping them see the value of communication in a whole new light. Watching Mimi in action is worth the price of admission alone! (picture: Mimi with Alfanso)
were aching from questions about “when will my child be able to talk”, Mimi was able to patiently, consistently, and considerately lead them through a paradigm shift, helping them see the value of communication in a whole new light. Watching Mimi in action is worth the price of admission alone! (picture: Mimi with Alfanso)I love getting new blood involved in the CITTI Project. This year, our team has been boosted with two especially gifted 
people. Elissa Poel has now made friends with many teachers here in Ecuador. She was frequently found with her sleeves rolled up, creating and crafting materials after having listened carefully to those circled around her. And when the circle was not of teachers, she was surrounded by children, eagerly wanting to play her cleaverly disguised games of learning. (picture: Elissa teaching some of the children of Huambalo)
Susan Pompa has been such an incredible presence for the CITTI Project this year. Being a self proclaimed “generalist” she found herself pitching in everywhere
where she went. What I most appreciate is that no matter what the task, what the need, when or where we found her, Susan did it with a contagious joyfulness, and determination that goes way beyond “general”. (picture: Susan)
There is no way for any of us to go home without being changed by this experience. This trip has been beyond our expectations. I extend my thanks and gratitude to this year’s team for their continual pursuit of cultural knowledge, their generosity, and their wonderful sense of humors.. I am ever grateful.
people. Elissa Poel has now made friends with many teachers here in Ecuador. She was frequently found with her sleeves rolled up, creating and crafting materials after having listened carefully to those circled around her. And when the circle was not of teachers, she was surrounded by children, eagerly wanting to play her cleaverly disguised games of learning. (picture: Elissa teaching some of the children of Huambalo)Susan Pompa has been such an incredible presence for the CITTI Project this year. Being a self proclaimed “generalist” she found herself pitching in everywhere
where she went. What I most appreciate is that no matter what the task, what the need, when or where we found her, Susan did it with a contagious joyfulness, and determination that goes way beyond “general”. (picture: Susan)There is no way for any of us to go home without being changed by this experience. This trip has been beyond our expectations. I extend my thanks and gratitude to this year’s team for their continual pursuit of cultural knowledge, their generosity, and their wonderful sense of humors.. I am ever grateful.
Fondly, Bridgett
