Goal:
To support the development of synchronized swimming in Bolivia by raising $6000 to send two Bolivian athletes, Aracely Sotelo (15) and Milenka Rivera (13) to represent Boliva in the 2nd UANA Pan American Age Group Synchronized Swimming Championships in Calgary, Alberta, August 27–31, 2008
Rational:
If they raise the $6000 necessary for airfare and accommodation, Bolivia will send its first ever duet to represent their country.
Bolivia is the poorest country in South America with a per capita income of only $1,153 per year (Instituto Nacional de Estadisticas Bolivia). This leaves little money to dedicate to sports development. The national swimming federation (FEBONA) has an annual budget of $3000, enough to cover the costs of ribbons and medals for the speed swimming teams in the country, but not to support international travel. All athletes who want to compete outside of the country must raise their own money to do so.
The club charges swimmers $3 a month—enough to keep the swimmers committed, but not too much to restrict participation. This means the club has no budget for travel or an underwater sound system, a standard piece of equipment for synchro teams in Canada.
The athletes have begun fundraising efforts in Bolivia appealing to local business and institutions, however, without international support, they will have difficulty reaching their goal.
By supporting these two young athletes, donors are supporting the sustainability of synchronized swimming in Bolivia. While in Canada Milenka and Aracely will participate in a FINA clinic to develop their skills as coaches. Upon their return, they will pass on their knowledge and skills to new athletes. Their first glimpse of competitive synchronized swimming, and the level that exists outside of Bolivia will no doubt encourage further participation and interest in the sport in Bolivia, as well as the motivation to train for and attend competitions in the near future.
In addition to sport development, through their donations individuals are promoting the development of women in Bolivia. In a country where the rates of education and well renumerated employment are still notably less for women, synchronized swimming provides young girls with an opportunity to develop their personal potential and self-esteem. It teaches them discipline, goal setting, self awareness and determination, all skills that they will need to be successful later in life.
To learn more about Lisa and Allison´s efforts and how synchro got started in Bolivia, visit their blog: www.synchrobolivia.wordpress.com