FAQ's

If you've ever wondered about our organization, here are some frequently asked questions and answers.

What does Mano en Mano mean?

Mano en Mano is Spanish for Hand in Hand. Our name was chosen to quickly describe our efforts to partner with individual donors, other charitable organizations, and the children and families in Nicaragua to build a better future and standard of living for Nicaraguans and others in need.

What is the Mano en Mano Foundation?

Mano en Mano is a 501c(3) non-profit organization, founded in 2009, which builds futures for children and their families through providing humanitarian aid in the Western hemisphere.

Why Mano en Mano?

Mano en Mano is different in that we want donors to be directly involved in the projects they are supporting. So many large organizations spend donations on salaries or other costs, rather than on what the donor truly wants to give to. Contributors do not want to be paying someone’s salary, they want to directly help those in need, which is the assurance Mano en Mano can provide.

How can I donate money?

It's easy to donate--simply click here with your credit card or write a check to Mano en Mano at PO BOX 55289 Houston, Texas 77255-5289 and we will send you a prompt receipt. Great news--if you live in the US your gift is entirely tax deductible!

Is my gift tax deductible?

Yes-our designation as a 501c(3) organization allows your gift to be tax deductible.

How does the Mano en Mano Foundation money get to where it needs to go?

We have a team in place in the city of Granada which identifies children and families in desperate need and distributes aid accordingly. Our Granada team sends the donor a full accounting of receipient's names, date the funds were distributed, and the specific project the donation supported. We make several trips a year to ensure the donor's gift has been used as the donor wished.

Can I give to the program of my choosing?

Absolutely! The beauty of the Mano en Mano online giving system is that YOU the donor can support the program of your choice whether it be feeding a family or educating a child. You know that your dollars go to the needy rather than funding executive board meetings at golf resorts.

How fiscally efficient is Mano en Mano in terms of operating costs?

Mano en Mano employs a certified public accounting firm, Easley, Endres, Parkhill & Brackendorff, P.C. Certified Public Accountants & Consultants in Houston, Texas, to ensure that we are in compliance with tax rules and regulations.

Why Nicaragua?

There are few jobs, many children go hungry, and education is out of their reach. Many children are frail, underweight, and in need of basic medical care, especially with the existing high risk of infectious diseases such as malaria and dengue fever. On our initial visit to Granada in 2004 we realized that unlike the USA, there were no Food Banks, no free clinics, no homeless shelters and felt that we could begin to help there.

Where else does Mano en Mano help?

Mano en Mano has fundraised for Nicaragua, Haiti, and Chile. We believe in making sure we don't expand too rapidly and keep our focus on truly making a difference, sometimes one child or family at a time.

What other organizations does Mano en Mano work with?

Mano en Mano has built a grassroots presence in Nicaragua, partnering with Carita Feliz and the Sisters of the Charity of Mother Teresa of Calcutta, both on the ground in Nicaragua, to deliver what is needed to make life better. We have also worked with Christian Medical Missions. Our dream and plan is to continue working hand in hand with these people and organizations.

If I am a vendor, own a venue, or have certain connections that may help Mano en Mano with events, how can I do this?

You are singing our song--we would love to hear from you if you want to help, even if on a small scale. We seek to raise awareness and inspire people whether they be middle-schoolers, college students, or retirees, and the easiest way is through public fundraisers, concerts, bake sales, and T-shirt gifts. We not only believe every little bit helps we have seen it with our own eyes.