Reporting by Mark LaBarge, Belize2020 Co-chair
In January 2024, Belize2020 members gathered for a special retreat to reflect on 10 years of incredible progress and to plan for the future. The retreat brought together leaders from both Belize and St. Louis, including key representatives from the Jesuit missions, St. Louis University and Belizean partners representing St. John’s College, St. Martin De Porres, and St. Peter Claver. The atmosphere was filled with enthusiasm and a shared vision for the next chapter of Belize2020.
Building Relationships and Reflecting on 10 Years of Impact
Attendees included Fr. Brian Christopher, Superior of the Belize Jesuit Community; Fr. Matt Ruhl, Pastor of St. Peter Claver Parish; Fr. Andres Val Serra, Pastor of St. Martin de Porres Parish; and Fr. Matthew Baugh, Director of the retreat. The retreat began with a warm welcome dinner, setting the tone for a productive and inspiring few days. Belize2020 volunteers included longtime Jesuit supporters, individuals with experience in healthcare and education, and new friends, all united by shared values supporting Jesuit works in Belize.
The main theme of the retreat was “Building on 10 Years of Grace.” Participants reflected on the successes of the past decade, including improvements in education, health, and community engagement. Fr. Matthew Baugh led discussions, focusing on how the collective work of Belize2020 has positively impacted the lives of those we serve, particularly the students at St. Martin de Porres School.
Highlights of the Retreat
Student Assembly at St. Martin de Porres School: One of the most memorable moments was the student assembly and heartfelt performances by the students in Swift Hall, showcasing their talent and joy. Swift Hall is a cherished parish center and gymnasium for St. Martin de Porres and community hub for Belize City’s southside neighborhoods. Swift Hall’s construction was directly funded by Belize2020 partners in Belize and North America. The assembly was a proud moment for the teachers and staff, who continue to provide opportunities for the students to shine, despite the challenges they face. A big highlight was the signing of the “10 Years of Collaboration” banner by students, teachers, school staff, and Belize2020 volunteers at the assembly. It will be a treasured reminder of this partnership’s great work for years to come.
Visit to the Community Baboon Sanctuary: The retreat wasn’t all work—participants enjoyed a visit to the Community Baboon Sanctuary, where they encountered howler monkeys in their natural habitat. It was a reminder of the natural beauty and richness of Belize.
Welcome Reception at St. John’s College: The group was treated to a tour of the new Mirtha Alice Peralta Science Center at St. John’s College University , followed by a delicious dinner. This new facility stands as a symbol of the progress that Belize2020 has helped make possible over the last decade. The state of the art building will house SJC University’s new nursing and engineering programs.
Mirtha Alicia Peralta Hall is the latest addition to SJC University, offering modern facilities for science and nursing education, which will be supported by SLU. Named after the current president, this hall is the result of collaborations including SJC's new membership in the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities. It stands as a testament to SJC’s leadership, vision, and Jesuit tradition, which has played a deep role in shaping Belize’s history and national emergence.
Planning for the Future
The retreat included a deep dive into the future of Belize2020. Fr. Baugh led the group in a SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats), allowing participants to brainstorm how to build on the strengths of the past 10 years while identifying areas for growth and improvement. Discussions were lively and focused on addressing key issues, such as:
Strengthening relationships and maintaining commitment
Expanding teacher resources and health assessments for students
Attracting new sources of income and younger team members in both Belize and North America
These conversations will shape the planning for the next 10 years. Belize2020 partners are planning a second Belize Summit at SLU scheduled tentatively for spring of 2025.
The planned summit will follow up on a historic event. In October 2015 in a celebration of solidarity and collaboration, leaders of the Jesuits Central and Southern Province, Saint Louis University, and St. Martin de Porres Parish gathered and signed a compact of cooperation to focus on early childhood education and counseling as well as annual SLU fellowships for Belizean educators pursuing graduate degrees.
Looking Ahead: A New Decade of Collaboration
As Belize2020 celebrates 10 years of progress, the retreat participants left with a renewed sense of purpose and excitement for the future. The next steps involve turning the ideas and insights from the retreat into action plans that will continue to strengthen Belize2020’s mission. The relationships built over the past decade, the programs established, and the trust developed within the Belizean and North American communities all point to a bright future. Belize2020 is ready to tackle the next decade, and we look forward to the continued collaboration that has been the hallmark of our success.
