News

A New School Year, A New Chapter of Hope

In Nicaragua, the start of the new school year means more than fresh notebooks and sharpened pencils. For the women supported by Adelante Mujer, it marks a bold step forward in a journey of transformation—not just for themselves, but for their families, their communities, and their country.

Education is a powerful force anywhere in the world, but in the developing world, its impact is nothing short of revolutionary. In Nicaragua, access to higher education—especially for women—is often limited by poverty, geography, or gender expectations. Yet, despite the barriers, our students persist. They dream big. They show up. And thanks to your support, they’re making those dreams a reality.

This year, we are thrilled to welcome a new cohort of future doctors, alongside many returning students who are continuing their medical education with unwavering dedication. These women are studying in a system that is academically rigorous and emotionally demanding, often while balancing jobs, family responsibilities, and the constant pressure of financial strain.

Adelante Mujer exists to stand in that gap—to provide the financial support, tools, and encouragement that empower women to continue their studies and complete their medical degrees. We believe that by investing in women’s education, especially in healthcare, we are not only changing individual lives—we’re strengthening entire communities.

This week, we’re highlighting one of our incredible third-year students, Adriana, working in a busy clinic that serves women and children. Her hands are steady, her voice is calm, and her heart is full of purpose. She’s a beautiful example of what it looks like when women are given the opportunity to care for other women.

In many parts of the world, women still lack access to basic feminine healthcare. Routine exams, prenatal care, safe childbirth, screenings for cancer and infections—these are often unavailable or unaffordable. And when cultural norms or lack of education prevent women from advocating for their own health, the risks multiply.

That’s why it is so powerful when a woman becomes a doctor in her own community. She understands the realities her patients face. She listens without judgment. She educates with empathy. And she provides care that is not only medically competent, but deeply compassionate.

When women care for other women, something extraordinary happens: dignity is restored, trust is built, and healing becomes a shared experience. Our students are not just learning medicine—they’re learning how to be agents of change in the most personal and profound way.

As this new school year begins, we invite you to celebrate these courageous women with us. Their journey is long and challenging, but with your support, they never walk it alone.

Adelante Mujer—Forward, Woman. Always forward.

Gratitude + Growing Need in Nicaragua

Dear friends and supporters,

We’ve got a real great big problem….

As we reflect on the incredible support we received in 2024, we want to extend our deepest gratitude to you for helping us achieve a record-breaking year. Your generosity made a real difference, and we are so thankful for your belief in our mission. However, as the need continues to grow, we find ourselves facing a new challenge. This week, we completed 21 interviews for students entering our upcoming class, but we only have the capacity to welcome 12 students. The desire to provide these women with education and opportunities is stronger than ever, and your continued support is vital in helping us meet this growing demand.

Would you consider giving $100/month to support a women going through medical school in Nicaragua? You can set up a reoccurring payment monthly here. You’ll never have to think about your donation again. Or, would you consider giving a one time gift of $1100 or more?

Give online or mail donations to:
Adelante Mujer, Inc.
757 S. Main St. Suite 9
Fond du Lac, WI 54935

Together, we can ensure that more women in Nicaragua are empowered to build brighter futures.

Please give generously!

Honoring MLK Jr. Day: A Call to Lift Others, Empower Women, and Address Global Poverty

Dear friends and supporters,

Each year, Martin Luther King Jr. Day reminds us of the transformative power of hope, justice, and equality. It’s a day to reflect on the profound legacy of a man who dedicated his life to fighting racial inequality and advocating for human dignity. Dr. King’s vision of a “Beloved Community,” where everyone has access to justice and opportunity, transcends time and geography—resonating not only in the United States, but across the globe.

As we honor his memory and his fight for justice, we must also acknowledge the ongoing struggles faced by millions of people around the world, particularly those living in poverty in Central America. The connection between Dr. King’s work and the need for global solidarity is clear: the fight for equality is not confined to any one country, and neither should our commitment to making the world a better place.

The Global Struggle Against Poverty and Inequality

Poverty is an issue that continues to affect countless communities worldwide, and it’s a struggle that often leaves women and children disproportionately impacted. Central America, with its history of economic instability, political unrest, and systemic inequality, is home to many who face the harsh realities of poverty every day. From rural farmers to urban migrants, the challenges are daunting, yet the solutions lie within our ability to empower these communities—especially women.

Dr. King taught us that “injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” His words echo in the lives of women across Central America who, despite immense challenges, are working tirelessly to lift themselves and their families out of poverty. But to make a real difference, we must help them access the tools they need to break free from cycles of economic hardship, and education is the key.

The Power of Education: A Gateway to Empowerment

Education is one of the most powerful tools we can offer to those living in poverty. For women, especially in developing regions like Central America, it is a pathway not only to economic opportunity but also to freedom. Yet, access to higher education remains a luxury many cannot afford. Gender inequality, limited resources, and societal barriers make it even harder for young women to attend school and pursue careers.

By investing in women’s education, we invest in the entire community. Studies show that when women are educated, they are more likely to start businesses, improve the health and education of their children, and break generational cycles of poverty. Educated women are also more likely to challenge social norms that perpetuate inequality and create a ripple effect that can transform entire societies.

Dr. King’s dream of a world where every individual can live to their fullest potential is realized when we ensure that women and girls have access to the opportunities they deserve. This means not only offering financial support to those who want to pursue higher education but also providing mentorship, resources, and advocacy to dismantle the barriers that stand in their way.

Why We Must Act: Our Shared Responsibility

As we reflect on Martin Luther King Jr.’s life, we are reminded that the pursuit of justice is not a one-time event or an isolated cause—it is a continuous, collective effort. The fight for equality and opportunity knows no borders. While the challenges in Central America may seem distant, they are deeply connected to our shared human experience. Helping others, especially women, access education and resources, is a responsibility that transcends nationality.

Dr. King understood that real change happens when individuals and communities come together to fight for the common good. He believed that the arc of the moral universe bends toward justice—but only if we actively bend it. By standing in solidarity with the women of Central America, we honor his legacy and contribute to the creation of a more just and compassionate world.

This MLK Jr. Day, let’s turn our reflections into action. We can support organizations that provide scholarships and educational resources to women in Central America, advocate for policies that promote gender equality, and volunteer our time and expertise to empower those in need. Each small act of kindness contributes to the larger movement of justice and human dignity, and together, we can make Dr. King’s dream a reality—not just in the United States, but around the world.

A Call to Action: Empower, Educate, and Uplift

This MLK Day, let’s remember Dr. King’s words and the call to “help the weak become strong.” Our work is not done, and there is much to be done. We have the power to make a difference by supporting the education of women and girls in Central America, and in doing so, we can help break the chains of poverty that hold so many back. Through education, we can empower women to transform their own lives, the lives of their families, and their communities at large. And in doing so, we honor the enduring legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., whose dream of justice and equality for all is a vision that transcends borders, cultures, and time.

Let’s take this moment to turn our collective grief, hope, and remembrance into action—a global effort to lift others, empower women, and break the cycle of poverty. Because when we work together, we truly honor the vision of a more just and compassionate world.

Please give generously!

The Importance of Privileged Women Funding Higher Education in Developing Countries

Dear friends and supporters,

Let’s talk about the elephant in the room…..

In a world of endless need….why give to women pursuing higher education in Latin America? Why Adelante Mujer? 

Education has long been heralded as the cornerstone of progress and empowerment, and this holds especially true for women in developing nations. In many parts of the world, access to education remains a distant dream for countless young women due to socio-economic barriers. This is where the role of privileged women becomes pivotal—by supporting higher education initiatives in third-world countries, they can catalyze transformative change and uplift entire communities.

Education is not just about imparting knowledge; it is about breaking the cycle of poverty and inequality. In many developing regions, girls face significant obstacles in pursuing education beyond primary levels, ranging from cultural norms that prioritize boys’ education to financial constraints within families. By funding higher education scholarships or programs, privileged women can directly dismantle these barriers. They can provide opportunities for talented young women to access quality education, thereby equipping them with the skills and knowledge to pursue careers, become leaders, and contribute meaningfully to their societies.

Investing in women’s education yields extensive socio-economic benefits. Studies consistently show that educated women tend to marry later, have fewer children, and contribute more substantially to household incomes. Educated women are also more likely to invest in their children’s education, thereby creating a positive cycle of intergenerational development. By enabling women in third-world countries to access higher education, privileged women not only promote gender equality but also foster economic growth and stability within these communities.

Education empowers women to advocate for their rights and challenge entrenched gender norms. In many parts of the world, women still face discrimination and violence, often stemming from deeply ingrained societal attitudes. However, education empowers women to recognize their rights, articulate their aspirations, and participate in decision-making processes. When privileged women support education initiatives, they amplify the voices of marginalized women and promote a more inclusive and equitable society globally.

Funding higher education for women in third-world countries is not just a matter of charity—it is an investment in a sustainable future. The challenges of our interconnected world, from climate change to global health crises, require diverse perspectives and innovative solutions. By ensuring that women from all backgrounds have the opportunity to participate in higher education, privileged women enrich the pool of global talent and leadership. They foster a more diverse and inclusive workforce capable of addressing complex challenges and driving sustainable development worldwide.

The imperative for privileged women to support higher education initiatives in third-world countries is rooted in a commitment to global equity, prosperity, and empowerment. By investing in the education of women in developing nations, privileged women can catalyze transformative change, break cycles of poverty, and foster a more just and inclusive world. This collective effort not only empowers individual women but also enriches communities and contributes to a brighter future for generations to come.

When you fund the women of Adelante Mujer, you fund a ripple effect that creates generational change.

Please give generously!

 

Reflecting On The Impact Of The Adelante Mujer Scholarship By Student Ana Verónica Peña

Dear friends and supporters,

I am thrilled to share with you the profound impact that the “Adelante Mujer” scholarship has had on my journey as a student of Intercultural Medicine. From the outset, receiving this scholarship has been a tremendous honor and a game-changer in both my academic and personal life.

Throughout this semester, I’ve had the privilege to engage in a variety of modules and activities that have not only enriched my university experience but have also honed my skills as a future medical professional. One of the most rewarding experiences was participating in vaccination campaigns against diseases like measles, diphtheria, and whooping cough. These campaigns were not just about administering vaccines but were pivotal moments in understanding the importance of preventive medicine and community health.

Equally impactful was my involvement in mosquito control efforts aimed at combating malaria and dengue, diseases that have had a significant impact on our city. These initiatives underscored the critical intersection between public health and community involvement, shaping my understanding of healthcare beyond clinical settings.

Of course, clinical rotations were a cornerstone of this semester. They provided me with firsthand experience in providing care and support to patients facing various illnesses. These rotations have been invaluable in reinforcing my commitment to pursuing excellence in medical practice and serving my community with dedication and empathy.

I want to extend my deepest gratitude to those who made this scholarship possible. Your generosity and belief in my potential have been a constant source of inspiration. I am committed to continuing my academic journey with determination, striving to achieve my goals and make a meaningful contribution to society.

As I look ahead to the next semester, I am excited about the opportunities for growth and learning that lie ahead. I promise to keep you updated on my progress and share more insights into how your support continues to shape my path.

Thank you once again for believing in me and for supporting the “Forward Woman” scholarship. Together, we are making a difference.

Warm regards,

Ana Verónica Peña

(translate from Spanish to English)

Empowering New Futures: Our transformative Journey to Guatemala

Friends,

I am thrilled to share an inspiring journey that I recently embarked on to Guatemala, a trip that was as eye-opening as it was uplifting. Accompanied by Sister Diane, whose enthusiasm and wisdom enriched the experience, we set off to witness firsthand the profound need in a new area of Central America.  We witnessed how your generosity has the power to change lives and opening new doors of opportunity for many deserving young women. Our experiences reaffirmed the importance of our mission and highlighted exciting new possibilities for growth and greater service through Adelante Mujer.

A Heartfelt Journey

Our adventure began on a Sunday, with a flight from Milwaukee to Guatemala City. Upon arrival, we were welcomed by Sandra Corrigan, our translator, and soon met Jayme, our driver, along with Sister Argelina. Sister Argelina, a dedicated member of the School Sisters of St. Francis (SSSF) and the head of The Center for Alternative Programs, guided us to our destination in Santa Apolonia.

The Center for Alternative Programs

The Center is a sanctuary of hope and opportunity, featuring a unique complex where city streets interlace with welcoming apartment-style homes. These homes, each with four bedrooms, a communal living space, and modern amenities, serve as a haven for the residents. The Center also houses a woodworking shop and a shoemaking factory, showcasing the sisters’ commitment to self-sustainability. Until recently, the Center operated as an orphanage, caring for around 50 children. However, due to recent government reforms, the focus has shifted, marking a poignant transition for the sisters.

A New Mission: Empowering Young Women

In response to these changes, Sister Argelina launched a new initiative aimed at supporting young women. Many former orphans, now returned to impoverished family situations, continue to receive financial and emotional support from the Center. The current mission is to provide these young women, aged 18 and above, with housing and a path to higher education. This nurturing environment allows them to pursue their dreams, particularly in fields like nursing, where three of the nine residents are currently focused.

The Impact of Your Support

Meeting these remarkable young women was transformative. Their intelligence, passion, and determination to succeed were evident. They have the potential to become exceptional leaders and contributors to society, thanks to the support they receive. However, the Center’s capacity is limited by funding, and this is where your generosity can make a significant difference. With USD $4000 per year, another young woman can be given the chance to pursue her dreams.

A Glimpse into Lives Transformed

During our visit, we had the privilege to meet Aura Chuluc and Yulissa Chacach, two high school seniors with aspirations of attending San Carlos University’s pre-med program. Despite living in extreme poverty, their academic excellence and resolve are inspiring. While the government covers tuition at this public university, living expenses remain a hurdle. This presents a unique opportunity for Adelante Mujer to extend our support beyond the Center’s current capabilities.

Building a Stronger Future Together

The alignment between the Center’s mission and Adelante Mujer’s vision is profound. This partnership could offer donors a more tangible way to engage, from funding educational pursuits to participating in medical, dental, or physical work projects in Guatemala. The logistics are feasible, and the impact is immeasurable.

As we forge ahead, I am excited about the potential of this collaboration and the lives we can transform together. Your continued support is not just appreciated—it is vital. I look forward to sharing more stories and updates with you and am eager to explore how we can further this incredible mission.

Thank you for being part of this journey. Your generosity is paving the way for brighter futures. Please follow along and continue giving generously!

Onward! Adelante!

Kaitlyn Boscaljon
Executive Director
Adelante Mujer, Inc.

14 Women Are Now Doctors!

 

Friends,

February and March have been incredibly exciting months here at Adelante Mujer!

On February 17th we celebrated the graduation of 14 new women doctors from URACCAN University in Bilwi, Nicaragua.

We now have 89 women who have graduated from college and taken their Hippocratic Oath!

The combination of Adelante Mujer’s extraordinary achievement in supporting these 89 women through medical school, along with the 56 who are currently enrolled, and the work and effort these women have put into shaping their futures, is a beacon of hope and empowerment. In Nicaragua, the impact of Adelante Mujer’s 14 new medical school graduates resonates profoundly, particularly in their mission to serve the underserved and uplift impoverished communities. These graduates embody the spirit of compassion and dedication, poised to make a tangible difference in the lives of the marginalized and disadvantaged. Their education and training equip them not only with medical expertise but also with a deep understanding of the socioeconomic challenges facing their country. As they step into the field, they carry with them a commitment to provide quality healthcare to those who need it most, regardless of financial barriers. With their newfound skills and unwavering determination, they will work tirelessly to alleviate suffering, promote wellness, and empower individuals and families to lead healthier, more dignified lives. Adelante Mujer’s graduates stand as beacons of hope, catalysts for change, and champions for the rights and well-being of Nicaragua’s poor.

Above you’ll see photos of our graduates (one is missing) receiving their stethoscopes.  Thanks to your generous support, Adelante Mujer can provide them with this tool, most likely the nicest they will ever have.

As the women in school now get up and rolling, now in their second month of this current semester, we’re looking forward to sharing new stories and updates from them coming soon!

Access to higher education matters! The advancement of women around the world matters! When you support Adelante Mujer women, you’re empowering a new generation of women, creating systemic change for future generations!

Onward! Adelante!


Kaitlyn Boscaljon
Executive Director
Adelante Mujer, Inc.

What a Blessing to Give the Gift of Sight

Hello! I hope you and your families are well. Dr Heydi, Nicaraguan

I am currently in the ophthalmology module, where I do my clinical practices on the afternoon and night shifts once a week. This year, I do not have any specific patients since I do not have time to do visits in person daily; the 5th year is quite full of activities and classes.

Dr Heydi, Nicaraguan

I interact with patients daily; people already recognize me when they see me on the street and express themselves as very grateful.

This month we have assisted some communities to vaccinate adults and children against COVID-19 and Tetanus and ensured that children have their complete vaccination schedule. We also give them antiparasitic medications.

 

Dr Heydi, NicaraguanI feel happy because the people in the communities trust us and accept that they are given the correct medicine, unlike in previous years when they were incredulous about the existence of certain diseases.

I have attached some photos of my clinical practices. I am always grateful for your support; you are a very important part of this great dream.

Blessings!
Heydi
February 2024

Dr Heydi, Nicaraguan

 

 

 

 

 

 

We Had to Save Her Baby

 

three ladies taken care of twinsHello. I am Doctor Allison and I was a student in the Adelante Mujer program between 2017-2020.I will always be grateful for all the ways Adelante Mujer has helped me make possible my dream of becoming a doctor.

After I took the Hippocratic Oath on March 24, 2021, I completed one year of internship and two years of social service. The path has been difficult but not impossible.

During my medical internship at the boarding school and social service, I have had many experiences. In each experience, I have always had God present and I feel that God has helped me to be able to move forward. Before, during and after each procedure I perceive myself, I talk to God and I ask God for wisdom, intelligence and patience so that God’s hands, through me, can help me help my patients, especially those who are in critical condition and who have often made us feel that we could lose them. Continue reading “We Had to Save Her Baby”

My First Time Assisting at Surgery

Being a medical student during her last year of study in the Intercultural Medicine program of URACCAN University surfaces a multitude of emotions as you will read in this report submitted by Merlin. She wrote:

Merlin Assisting in surgery ~ December 2023

 

This first image was taken at the beginning of this second semester.  My teacher guide informed me the day before to prepare to assist him in a prostate removal surgery.  At first I was very afraid and nervous because I had never seen a procedure of this type even though he had already given us the theoretical knowledge prior to surgery.

Continue reading “My First Time Assisting at Surgery”