The Quispicanchi Project

Opening doors to new possibilities in Sullumayo 🏡✨

We recently celebrated the ribbon-cutting of newly renovated teacher dormitories at Virgen del Rosario School—a project rooted in one simple belief: when teachers are supported, students thrive. After months of work transforming spaces that once had dirt floors and damaged roofs, educators now have safe, dignified places to rest and recharge.

In Peru, teachers are assigned to their schools, yet the educators in Sullumayo show up every day with passion and commitment to their students. This investment honors that dedication—because caring for teachers means strengthening classrooms.

The celebration was filled with meaning, from ribbon cuttings for each room to the traditionalbreaking of clay jars filled with chicha—symbolizing new beginnings and the possibilities ahead.

This milestone was made possible by supporters of our Building Together campaign. Because of you, we are creating lasting change for teachers, students, and families.

Be part of what’s next: https://www.quispicanchi.org/build 🌱

Six years strong in Sullumayo 💛

We were honored to visit Virgen del Rosario School earlier this week to inaugurate our 6th year of partnership alongside our in-country team. The day was filled with gratitude and celebration—from heartfelt presentations by Inicial, Primary, and Secondary students, to an original song and dance performed by the primary school, and a vibrant Carnaval Cusco dance by faculty.

We were also deeply touched to receive commemorative statuettes in recognition of our shared commitment to the health and well-being of the school community.

This year, our work continues with support for the school lunch program, health education and services, our 3rd annual dental campaign, and sustainability initiatives like the chicken coop and greenhouses. In partnership with the Wayra Associations, we’ll also expand efforts in human rights, family support, and health education.

We are grateful for this partnership and excited for the year ahead as we continue working together to create opportunity for every child in Sullumayo. 🌱

Our nutrition program is the foundation of the Quispicanchi Project—and the very first initiative we ever launched in the region. Over the past six years, this program has grown to serve more than 300,000 meals to students and families in rural communities across Quispicanchi.

This year, we are excited to share some wonderful news: our program is expanding!

We are beginning a new partnership with a small rural school in the high-altitude village of Mujuncancha, located more than 14,000 feet above sea level. The school currently serves 16 students in what is essentially a one-room schoolhouse, and there may be even more children enrolling as the school year begins.

Through this partnership, our team will provide a daily healthy meal rich in iron and protein for students and faculty. Along with supporting students’ growth and learning, the program will also help address childhood anemia, with regular testing carried out in partnership with local health officials.

It may be a small school, but we believe every child—no matter how remote their community—deserves access to the nutrition and support that helps them learn, grow, and thrive. We are incredibly excited to welcome the students of Mujuncancha into our program this year! 💙

ANNOUNCING Comunidad 6!

This summer, Comunidad 6 joins the Quispicanchi Project as part of the Encuentro Program—our largest and most university-diverse cohort yet! Representing 7 universities and 6 home towns, these Summer Companions and Interns bring a wide range of academic interests and gifts, united by a shared passion for walking alongside our partners in Peru.

Over the coming months, they will support our high school retreat programs, serve as teacher assistants in local schools, accompany community initiatives, and help deepen the relationships that are at the heart of our mission. Through shared meals, daily service, laughter, and reflection, they will build lasting friendships and unforgettable memories alongside our friends and Project family in Quispicanchi. Comunidad 6 embodies what Encuentro is all about: accompaniment and friendship—not just service, but presence.

Bienvenidos, Comunidad 6!

A heartfelt thank you to the 19 seniors and faculty from Regis Jesuit High School in Denver for an incredible Encuentro Retreat in Quispicanchi, Peru!

For one unforgettable week, these students as a part of their Theology of Encounter senior course accompanied our mission and local partners—learning, serving, and sharing in the beauty and challenges of life in rural Peru.

☀️ Mornings were spent bringing joy and energy to three local schools, including two Jesuit schools and CEBE San Antonio, a special needs school.
🌙 Afternoons were filled with after-school activities at Jesuit social centers and hands-on learning with local artisans.

Their openness, compassion, and joyful presence truly embodied the spirit of Jesuit education—men and women for and with others. ❤️

Gracias, Regis Jesuit!

A Message from Our Founder:

Dear Friends - It is with great joy and gratitude that I share exciting news about the next chapter of the Quispicanchi Project. Over the past year, I have been discerning how I can best serve the organization I founded and continue to advance our mission in Quispicanchi. With the full support of our Board, I am delighted to announce a leadership transition that I believe will strengthen our impact and ensure an even brighter future.

After five incredible years as our Executive Director, I will be stepping into a new role as Founder & Senior Director for Story and Strategy. In this position, I will continue to guide and support our in-country team and programs in Peru, while also helping to develop strategies that deepen our impact and expand the reach of our mission.

At the same time, I am thrilled to introduce Gina “G” House as our new Executive Director. Many of you already know G as our dedicated Board President over the past five years. She brings more than 25 years of experience in nonprofit leadership, fundraising, development, and global outreach. G has been an integral part of shaping who we are today, and I could not imagine a better person to carry our mission forward with wisdom, vision, and passion.

This transition is not only a celebration of what we have accomplished together—it is also a bold step into what’s ahead. I am deeply excited to continue serving as part of our Senior Leadership Team and to walk alongside G as she leads us into this new season.

Please join me in warmly welcoming and celebrating G as our new Executive Director. Together, in collaboration with our partners and collaborators in Quispicanchi, we will keep building on the strong foundation we have laid and creating lasting impact for our friends in Peru.

With gratitude and excitement,

Dr. Michael Riemer
Founder, The Quispicanchi Project