Why WE ARE COMPELLED TO ACT

The Quispicanchi Project is the result of years of friendship with the people living in the Quispicanchi Province of Southern Peru. What was started by a cohort of former short and long-term volunteers who had been deeply impacted by their time living in the region, now includes supporters and friends across the United States and elsewhere. Collectively, we realize that the power of friendship compels us to take action.

The Region (kiss-pea-khan-chee)

Our work is concentrated in five pueblos in the western part or the Quispicanchi province. The center of community life in these pueblos are the parishes of the “Ruta del Barroco Andino”, a cultural route of churches dating back to the 16th century.

The Quispicanchi Project provides support to parishes in Andahuaylillas, Ccatca, Huaro, Ocongate, and Urcos.

In addition to these five pueblos we provide critical support to Sullyumayu, a community of roughly 300 families living in the remote highlands above Huaro.

The Reality

In rural regions, poverty—defined as living on less than 338 soles per month (about $150)—affects up to half the population. Nearly 73% of rural households lack access to running water, and only about half of rural children continue their education beyond primary school. In the highlands, children may walk up to two hours each way to attend school, often across dangerous terrain. Limited access to nutritious foods results in diets dominated by potatoes and rice, contributing to widespread malnutrition and anemia. These challenges lead many young people to leave school early to earn income, falling victim to bonded labor and child human trafficking.

Our theory of action (Our How)

Through a spirit of accompaniment, the Quispicanchi Project seeks first to develop friendships which lead to a deepening empathy and understanding for those who struggle and a greater understanding of the needs of others. It is out of these relationships that solutions are imagined.

To advance this work, the Project maintains a Regional Advisory Council of local leaders, clergy, social workers, teachers, and other residents of Quispicanchi Province. The council serves as a think tank guiding all Project-supported efforts, with a focus on empowering local communities to design and implement sustainable solutions to their own challenges.

The Quispicanchi Project partners with trusted local networks, organizations, and ministries to put solutions into action.

Impact Domains

The Project focuses its impact in four domains which represent both the critical health needs of communities in the region and an effort to empower local organizations and families to develop sustainable programs for addressing the unique challenges they face.

DOMAIN 1 – Bolster nutritional intake and reduce nutritional deficiencies through the implementation of sustainable solutions.

DOMAIN 2 - Work with local organizations to implement best health practices and improve overall well-being.

DOMAIN 3 - Support local organizations working to increase equitable access to education in its various forms while empowering communities of creators and learners to achieve their potential.

Objective 4 - Celebrate and promote local culture and the human rights of indigenous cultures.