E45: What makes Peter Schaller with Rayo De Sol a good neighbor?  

In the latest episode of the Good Neighbor Podcast, host MILLI M. welcomed Peter Schaller, the driving force behind Rayo de Sol, a non-denominational faith-based organization implementing community development strategies in Nicaragua since 2008. Their conversation offered profound insights into sustainable community development, addressing misconceptions about Nicaragua, and highlighting opportunities for meaningful engagement with communities facing generational poverty.

Peter's dedication to Nicaragua stems from a lifelong commitment to nonprofit work, with nearly 30 years in Central America. What makes Rayo de Sol unique is their concentrated focus on Nicaragua's northern central highlands in the Matagalpa region, where they can maximize their impact rather than stretching resources across multiple areas. Their comprehensive programs encompass spiritual growth, primary and early education, community health, youth development, and economic solutions – addressing the multifaceted needs of communities living in extreme poverty.

One of the most enlightening aspects of the conversation addressed common misconceptions about Nicaragua. Despite only making headlines when something negative occurs, Nicaragua is actually remarkably safe, with a culture deeply centered on family and community values. Peter also tackled immigration misconceptions, offering a nuanced perspective that transcends partisan politics. He explained that migration isn't typically driven by a desire to leave home but rather by economic pressures resulting from decades of problematic foreign policies. As he poignantly noted, "If you ask a hundred Nicaraguans if they want to leave their family, their home and their community, 99 would probably say no, they'd rather stay in their country, with their families."

Beyond the serious work of community development, Peter shared Nicaragua's breathtaking diversity as a country rich in natural wonders. From Pacific and Caribbean coastlines to cloud forests, mountains where coffee flourishes, and the extraordinary Lake Nicaragua – the only place on Earth with freshwater sharks – the country offers incredible ecological diversity. The lake even features an island formed by two active volcanoes, creating a geography as unique as the culture itself. This natural splendor provides the backdrop for Rayo de Sol's work and offers volunteers a chance to combine purpose with exploration.

Peter's personal journey adds another dimension to Rayo de Sol's mission. Having overcome significant personal challenges in his youth, he discovered that service provided not only direct benefits to others but profound healing for himself. "Serving other people, no matter what your faith tradition is, is spiritually very healthy, it's emotionally very healthy," he reflected, highlighting how helping others find solutions to critical life problems became his way of paying forward the support he once received during his own struggles.

What truly distinguishes Rayo de Sol from other nonprofits is their unwavering commitment to efficiency, stewardship, and relationship-building. Unlike organizations that implement short-term projects before moving elsewhere, they foster long-term relationships with communities. They serve approximately 20,000 people with personal connections that guide sustainable change. For those inspired to contribute, opportunities range from financial support and volunteering time and professional skills to participating in purpose-driven travel experiences where visitors can serve communities while also experiencing Nicaragua's cultural and natural wonders.

To learn more about Rayo De Sol go to: 

www.rayodesol.org