IZOTE EVENT RAISES FUNDS FOR EL SALVADOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVES

March 9, 2014 -- Izote, a local non-profit that has committed itself to supporting sustainable development projects in impoverished communities in El Salvador through literacy, health, and ecology initiatives, held its third Annual Volcano Rock and Roll Dinner Dance fundraiser at the Sea Cliff Manor this past Saturday night. 

After an introduction by Juan Jose Urias, who has been involved in humanitarian relief efforts to El Salvador for more than 20 years and who sits on the group's Board of Directors, President Risa Procton, Vice President Louise Cooper, and Dr. Robert Appel, the Battling Blindness Coordinator, spoke about Izote's efforts. 

Through its literacy campaign the group has shipped 50,000 books to communities throughout the country helping to establish 23 school libraries, four community libraries, and, for more remote areas, 100 mini-libraries in a backpack.  

In May 2012, the Izote opened an eye surgery unit at San Pedro Hospital, providing the medical equipment for an ophthalmology operating room, where in addition to the surgeries that are done at the hospital every week, Izote board member and ophthalmologist Dr. Robert Appel has performed dozens of eye operations during surgical missions to the hospital during the past two summers.


In addition, through targeted donations, the group has raised $10,000 in support of the Mangrove Association's Sea Turtle Conservation Project at the Bay of Jiquilisco on the Salvadoran Pacific coast where four endangered species of Sea Turtles nest.  The Association purchases turtle eggs from local collectors who would have otherwise sold the eggs at market.  The eggs are incubated and then after hatching, the baby turtles are released onto the beach where they enter the ocean. Through its efforts, Izote has protected 44,000 eggs.


Ms. Proctor said that the group is extremely thankful for all that it has "been able to achieve in such a short time thanks to the amazing support of the local community including the Sea Cliff-Glen Head Lions Club."  "It's amazing what a room full of caring people can do," Ms. Proctor said in concluding her remarks.


On hand at Saturday's fundraiser were scores of local residents and a few local government officials, including Sea Cliff Mayor Bruce Kennedy and Trustee Ed Lieberman.  The band Chicken Head provided the evening's entertainment.


For more information about Izote, or if you would like to help out, visit their website at  www.izoteus.blogspot.com or call at 516 945-9444.