In 2012, Sam and Sharon Carpenter helped supervise a Builders Beyond Borders trip to Nagarote, Nicaragua.
The longtime Westporters fell in love with the community of Sonrisa de Dios (“Smile of God”), and vowed to continue serving it.
They’ve returned every year since. Each year, they bring at least 20 family members and friends to share the experience.
Sam and Sharon Carpenter
Working with NicaPhoto — a support agency whose board Sam joined in 2013, and now serves as chair — and with special help from Westport Rotary, the Carpenters have helped build 4 classrooms, 3 latrines, a playground, sidewalks and garden at an elementary school; rebuild homes after an earthquake; and construct walls, classrooms and more at another site.
Beyond building, Sam and Sharon join others on the trip as they play and dance with the children.
Sharon Carpenter and her friends.
It’s one thing to spend a week on a service trip. It’s another to return to the same community, year after year. That shows special care and commitment. It also builds lifelong solidarity and friendship.
A longtime fellow volunteer cites the Carpenters’ “incredibly big hearts, generosity, love for their fellow man, enthusiasm in the face of challenge, and always their love.”
In 2013, Ronnie Maher — another volunteer — had dinner with Sam, Sharon and the mayor of Nagarote. The mayor asked Sam why he was there.
“I’ve been very fortunate in my life,” he replied simply. “I can give back, so I do.”
Sam Carpenter, hard at work.
Nagarote knows and loves Sam and Sharon Carpenter. Many Westporters know and love them too — but may be unaware of their long and strong commitment to this Nicaraguan community.
That’s why they’re this week’s Unsung, but very worthy, Heroes.
(To nominate an Unsung Hero, email dwoog@optonline.net)