A report from Clinica Verde founder Susan Dix Lyons:

I just got back from another great trip to Nicaragua. It's rainy season there – and was pouring when I visited the land site – but the site excavation and grading are near completion, which will get the site to "pad ready." The final construction documents from our Nicaraguan architect are almost done, at which point we'll be able to put the project out to bid and begin staging for commencement of construction.

I met with our Medical Director, Dr. Armando Incer. Each time I meet with Dr. Incer I'm more impressed and comforted by our decision to bring him on to lead Clinica Verde. He's not only a capable physician and administrator, but wise, even-tempered, and compassionate.

In Boaco, I also met with Violeta Diaz, the director of the public hospital. I emphasized our hope to work together to share resources between our clinic and her facility, which is in great need of equipment and supplies, particularly in the area of orthopedics. We look forward to working together with Violeta and building upon our friendship.

I got to hone my driving skills in Managua (where the streets truly have no name!) while returning to the city to have dinner with CV project manager Johny Siman and his wife Ana at their lovely home. In Managua I also met with board member Cristiana Chamorro before heading back to the States. Cristiana and her husband Antonio Lacayo are coming to Napa Valley in September to give a couple of talks on the political history of Nicaragua and Latin America.

But the best part, of course, is the children. Spending some time with the kids in Empalme de Boaco is the most powerful reminder of why we're there and provides the inspiration necessary to meet our goals. It's a great way to refuel. Each child has so much potential. What an honor to be engaging in work that's focused on unleashing that potential in the world.

I can't wait to go back.

NOTE: Clinica Verde needs to raise about $140,000 more to complete clinic construction. We are urgently working to meet this goal. Please contact us if you know any supporters who may assist us in our cause!

I'd like to help!

Lee Austin is a Certified Nurse Anesthetist at St. Helena Hospital in St. Helena, California.

"I believe Clinica Verde is one of the best charitable projects you can support! We all know there is no greater gift you can give someone than the gift of health. This clinic will change the lives of thousands of people each year by sharing that gift. But it doesn't stop there – this is not just a health clinic. It's a non-profit business whose mission isn't to make money, but rather to show love and compassion. And, they will reach out not only with treatments, but share their knowledge on healthful ways of living.

"But my favorite thing about this project is that the originators are intimately involved and passionate about seeing it evolve to its fullest potential. I can trust that every penny I give will do directly to building a sustainable health clinic to a very needful community. I encourage everyone who wishes to support a charitable organization to choose Clinca Verde."

Sure, I'll help!

Clinica Verde has joined with Capital One to offer a special credit card to benefit our cause. With each purchase you make, 1% will be automatically donated to Clinica Verde. Plus, Capital One will donate $25 after you make your first purchase.

Apply now to tap into another way to support our efforts to bring health and hope to families in need!

I'd like to apply for a Clinica Verde/Capital One credit card.