A Transformational First
Adult Encuentro Retreat in Peru
This March, the Quispicanchi Project proudly hosted its first adult Encuentro Retreat, welcoming members of our senior leadership team, advisors, and prospective donors to Peru for an immersive, week-long experience. From March 15–22, participants engaged deeply with our work—visiting program sites, meeting our collaborators, and reflecting together each evening on the meaning and impact of our shared efforts.
The retreat offered a powerful blend of connection and context. Guests observed our initiatives firsthand, gaining a deeper understanding of how our programs support health, education, and opportunity in the Quispicanchi region. A highlight of the week included a visit to Sullumayo and Virgen del Rosario School, where participants witnessed the kickoff of our sixth year of programming and celebrated the inauguration of newly renovated teacher dormitories—an investment in educator well-being that will strengthen student outcomes for years to come.
We were especially excited to welcome Thomas Nolan, President of our Young Professionals organization, back to the region. Thomas first visited Quispicanchi in 2017 as a high school student from Jesuit Dallas. Now a mechanical engineer with a construction firm in Dallas, he brings both a longstanding passion for our mission and valuable technical expertise. His contributions are already helping to inform and strengthen our construction efforts as we continue improving learning environments and infrastructure in Sullumayo.
Another memorable moment of the week was a dinner hosted by our Logistics Manager, Luz Ramirez, and her husband, Ramiro. Filled with warmth, laughter, and meaningful conversation, the evening set the tone for a week rooted in relationship, trust, and shared purpose.
The retreat concluded with a visit to the Sacred Valley, offering participants time to reflect on their experiences while taking in the cultural and natural beauty of the region.
Creating opportunities for supporters to experience our work firsthand is a critical part of our organizational growth and impact strategy. The Encuentro Retreat not only deepens understanding and connection—it also invites participants to reflect on their own role in advancing this mission and consider how they might mobilize in service to others.
We are inspired by the success of this inaugural retreat and look forward to expanding this important dimension of our Encuentro Program in the years ahead.
