CEOLI cards now for sale through Amizade

Amizade and long time community partner CEOLI, the Center for Educational and Vocational Preparation for the Disabled, are thrilled to announce that Amizade will be the United States retailer for their CEOLI Cards project, the project that helps young adults who genuinely want to work and earn their own way.

The cards, which will be sold on Amizade’s website, come from one of CEOLI’s occupational therapy programs that gives an opportunity for several young handicapped Bolivian artists earn wages to help support themselves, their families, and their communities. For several years, a small group of severely handicapped young artists, led by talented art teachers, has been hand-painting greeting cards of typical Bolivian scenes.

The different card designs are of Bolivian people in native dress, some with llamas and donkeys, set against rural landscapes. All the scenes have vivid colors and are strikingly beautiful. Card options also include Christmas and Holiday themes, perfect for the upcoming holiday season, bringing joy to the receiver of the card as well as bringing help to the artist. In addition to the Christmas themes and syandard cards, there are also Children Cards, which are CEOLI cards done by Bolivian youth.

With the proceeds of the sale of just one card, a young artist can buy two loaves of bread, one litre of milk, half a kilo of apples, bananas or beans, or three bus rides across town. Individual cards cost only $3, a pack of four cards cost only $10, and a pack of 10 cards cost $20. A random assortment of 20 cards can be purchased for $20.

Cards measure approximately 4.5” x 6.5”, and come in a variety of colors and designs. A biography of one of the CEOLI artists is included with the card so that you and your recipients know a little more about the community you are serving. These beautiful cards make a thoughtful gift and show your commitment to creating a more equitable world. Buy a set for your friends and family or to use as your unique personal stationery.

Ceoli was founded in 1986 as an oasis of caring and help for nearly 150 children and young adults in the Cochabamba area. Staffed with dedicated teachers and health-care providers, CEOLI strives to provide the disabled with services and opportunities for improved quality of life that the Bolivian government has thus far failed to offer. As a non-profit organization, CEOLI relies on private donations and very minimal payments from the families of the mentally and physically challenged who are served.

Since 2003, longtime volunteers and supporters, Marvin and Martie Wachs have been assisting CEOLI by finding potential markets and buyers in the U.S. Here is an opportunity for those of us in more fortunate circumstances and countries to extend a hand to young adults who genuinely want to work and earn their own way. As of 2014, the Wachs have transferred the project to Amizade in order to see it continue to grow and succeed.