Hi, my name is Avotcja. 

I’m a 73 year oldPoet/Musician/Playwright/Photographer/Teacher with Muscular Sclerosis who, with your help, is going to the 11th International Poetry Festival in Granada, Nicaragua this February. I’ve been published in English & Spanish in the USA, Mexico & Europe. I’m a popular Bay Area Radio DeeJay on both KPOO in San Francisco & KPFA in Berkeley, California for many years & leader of “Avotcja & Modúpue." 

What I Need & What You Get

This is an expensive undertaking, with planefare, hotel, food & ambulatory devices to help me get around, I will need $2500. So I’m asking for your help. There is no amount too small or too large & many friends have offered CDs and other gifts to offer.  With your help I know we can do this. My participation will create a link between the Bay Area cultural community & Nicaragua which we hope will grow in the future. Please spread the word & I thank you in advance for your support.

The Impact

I want to represent you and our community at the International Poetry Festival in Granada, Nicaragua. There are well over a hundred Poets coming from over 40 countries to this amazing Festival & I want to be one of that number. In the last ten years this Poetry festival (which also includes Music, Dance & Theater) has brought together more than a thousand Poets from 96 countries including Nicaragua who have shared their work with more than 400 thousand people creating an intergenerational & international cultural exchange. 

Risks & Challenges

As a disabled person I know how to overcome challenges. The journey to Granada is long but I know that with the backing and support of my community I can get there to share in the cultural exchange and represent our vibrant community at this international exchange of important poets, artists, and more from around the world. 

Other Ways You Can Help

Help us spread the word! Email your friends a link to this campaign. Share it on your Facebook page. Tweet it. It only takes a second, and you will be supporting my journey.