Dear Friends of Southern Exposure,

As many of you are aware, the past year has been challenging for Southern Exposure. You probably received a letter this past summer describing the dire situation that the program was in at that time. When this letter was written, the number of builds for 2009 had drastically decreased and it was predicted that Southern Exposure would only build six homes for the entire calendar year. This was a dramatic difference from the several previous years’ average of thirty homes per year. The decrease in builds brought about a very real concern that Southern Exposure might not survive into 2010.

We are extremely pleased to say that thanks to many generous donations from both individuals and groups, the financial condition of Southern Exposure improved and we were able to build sixteen homes in 2009. While this is still less than the previous several years’ average, it is a significant improvement over the predicted six homes.

Currently there are only seven homes scheduled to be built in 2010. This means that not even one home will be built every month of the year. We are hopeful that with your help this number will increase and we can continue to build homes for the poorest of the poor in Juarez.

We recognize that some groups over the past year have decided not to go to Juarez for reasons of personal safety. The news reports of violence in Juarez and in all of Mexico continue to be of great concern to all who are involved with Southern Exposure. However, none of the violent acts that have been reported in the media have taken place around the Casa de Esperanza or any of the build sites. In reality, over the past two years the level of violence in the local area has actually decreased due to greater police and military presence. A February 8, 2010 article in The Denver Post addresses the current state of violence in Mexico by saying that “despite drug war, Mexico getting safer.” The article also states that due to a falling homicide rate people in Mexico are less likely to die violently now than they were a decade ago and “it also means tourists as well as locals may be safer than many believe.” It is interesting to note that Venezuela, Honduras, El Salvador and Guatemala all have homicide rates higher than that of Mexico.

The safety of each and every person is of upmost concern to us. Southern Exposure is in constant contact with the resident leaders who live in Juarez and monitor the local situation daily. If we ever feel that it is no longer safe for groups to travel to and stay in Juarez, we will not allow any groups to do so.

For those who have the desire to build but cannot travel to Juarez, we encourage you to continue to support the mission. We implemented a new program last year in response to the large number of cancellations. It allows a group to still be able to build a home without having to travel to Juarez. Through a generous donation to cover the cost of the house, our crew of Mexican workers and resident leaders can build a home for a needy family. So far, this program has enabled seven homes to be built in 2009 and 2010.

The financial situation of Southern Exposure has greatly improved over the last year. We are eternally grateful to each and every person and organization who have donated to help us continue to help the poorest of the poor in Juarez. We look forward to seeing the number of builds in 2010 increase with your help. Thank you for all that you have contributed to Southern Exposure and will contribute in the future. May God bless you.

-Southern Exposure Board of Directors

Donations are also used for:

    * Scholarships for those who have the heart to build but not the funds. Homes cost about $5,000 to build plus $120 for food, lodging and local transportation for each volunteer for that week. Typical groups consist of 12-15 volunteers.

    * Maintenance of vehicles, tools and La Casa de Esperanza (The House of Hope) your group's headquarters.

For more information about how you can help a family in need or if you need further information concerning an immersion build program for your group please click the Build Schedule or call 720-479-7784


Coming soon, you will be able to donate using your credit card, or by making a withdraw from your checking or savings account via Paypal.