On April 16, 2016 a powerful earthquake shook Ecuador with a moment magnitude of 7.8 and a maximum Mercalli intensity of VIII (Severe). More than 500 people were killed and thousands became homeless. The most affected regions were Manta, Pedernales and Portoviejo.
After the immediate response with the provision of material aid, such as water and medicine, several volunteers of Art of Living Foundation from different Latin American countries (Argentina, Paraguay and Panamá) traveled to provide support to the local team in Ecuador.
The Trauma Relief Programs were offered in the city of Portoviejo, (Manabí Province, western Ecuador) providing relief to hundreds of people, and involved:
- 15 volunteers from 4 countries: Ecuador, Argentina, Paraguay and Panama
- 4 days in the affected area
- 5 shelters assisted
- 600 people benefited with Yoga, Meditation and BWS Trauma Relief courses
- 1150 people reached through the volunteers’ activities
In order to provide a sustainable support to the affected areas, during this visit many volunteers of the Art of Living Foundation were trained to teach trauma relief courses involving breathing techniques, meditation, yoga and playful activities.
The next steps will include: empowering local leaders, training youth with leadership skills (YLTP) and developing regional service programs to help the long-term rehabilitation of the community.
The International Association for Human Values (IAHV), in partnership with the Art of Living Foundation (AOLF) has established a disaster relief fund to provide trauma relief program. Your contributions will be used for mobilization of volunteers (air travel and ground transport), accommodation , organizing trauma relief workshops and supplies for the workshops.
IAHV is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. All contributions are fully tax-deductible.
Please mail checks to: IAHV, 2401 15th Street NW, Washington DC 20009
Or donate online by clicking here.
