F.D.V.S.

Dear fellow club members,

The Verano Semilla program kicked-off at Escuela Ramon Vila Mayo on Monday this week.  It's not too late to join Dr. Annie in supporting the launch this summer.  We haven't raised the full $6,750 required to fully fund the program yet.  So please consider making a contribution.  Remember Annie is matching and donations 1:1.  Here is an update from one of the program managers (Antonio Gonzalez): 

"Reflections on the First Day of Verano Semilla 2026

The first day of Verano Semilla 2026 brought together educators, artists, volunteers, and community partners to launch a summer experience designed to integrate art, design, photography, video, emotional intelligence, and learning from nature. Hosted at Escuela Ramón Vilá Mayo and Escuela Hawthorne in Río Piedras, the program creates opportunities for young people to explore their identities, strengthen community connections, and develop creative forms of expression.

The day began with activities focused on body awareness, movement, and energy. Through simple exercises, students were encouraged to become more aware of their physical and emotional states, release tension, and build the trust necessary for collaborative work.

From there, students moved into idea development through a series of guiding questions: Why the heart? Why the form of a seed? What shapes character? These “seed questions” were intended to spark curiosity and reflection about the contributions each student can make to their communities and futures.

In the art studio, participants created a Self-Portrait Seed, exploring color, symbolism, and personal expression. Art served not only as a creative medium, but also as a way to examine broader concepts related to beauty, identity, and the natural world.

Students then entered the photography and video studio, where they explored composition, framing, and lighting. These activities also invited self-discovery as students learned to see themselves—and one another—from new perspectives.

The day concluded in a closing circle accompanied by music. Students reflected together, listened to one another, and experienced how individual voices and experiences can contribute to a stronger collective community.

As the first day came to an end, Verano Semilla had begun its work: planting the seeds of creativity, reflection, and belonging in the young people of Río Piedras.

This version is intentionally more reflective and descriptive, suitable for a program update, newsletter, or social media post from Laboratorio Semilla."

If you are able to donate, please refer to the earlier email that I sent last week with all the details.  Or feel free to reach out to me at (650) 504-2062 or robertcbolt@gmail.com

Pictures (Verano Semilla)