I wanted to do something special for 300. Something that meant something. And this binational nonprofit deserves all the praise it can get. Many US-invested organizations that have stations on the Mexico side of the border are religiously affiliated. Most of them, I'd venture to guess. Often in these cases, aid is distributed in such a way that major competition is created. Aid has religion attached to it, and if you want aid, you go to church. Then there's the gem that's DouglaPrieta Works (in Mexico, DouglaPrieta Trabajan). The name is testament to their mission alone: They have members in both Douglas, Arizona, and Agua Prieta, Mexico. The very modest community center in Agua Prieta has realistic goals that are well thought-out and carefully implemented. The center supports residents, and encourages self-sufficiency through teaching practical skills (and you can even purchase some of their handiwork online), and helping in the educational process for children. Jose Luis, the main man in Mexico, is exactly the way I'd imagine Jesus. He's kind and quiet. Understanding and gentle. And he's one of the few community members who is committed to environmental stewardship and a sustainable way of life. I've been incredibly lucky to meet some of these people, and I only hope for the best for them in the future. read more