Building Connections for a Landmine-Free World

Children Leading Change Across Borders

We continue strengthening the connection between children in the United States and Colombia through meaningful exchanges around a topic they deeply care about: building a landmine-free world. This work takes place through the Children Against Mines Program (CHAMPS), which creates opportunities for young people to learn from one another, share their realities, and become advocates for safer communities.

Second virtual exchange call with U.S. and Colombian students.

A new cohort joined the program in November, 2025, bringing together 5th-grade students from a long-standing U.S. partner school in Howard County, Maryland (Glenelg County School) and peers of similar ages from both urban and rural areas in Colombia. Participants include students from an all-girls private school (Gimnasio Fememnino) and a new partner institution located in the Urabá region, specifically in Dabeiba, Antioquia (I.E. Josefa Romero).

Learning Through Dialogue and Shared Experiences

Students from the Dabeiba municipality (left and center) introducing themselves and sharing their school surroundings, and students in Bogotá (right) presenting the results of a virtual activity about the power of words.

Through a series of enthusiastic and insightful virtual exchanges, students have begun getting to know each other’s schools, cultures, and communities. Together, they have engaged in interactive activities that encourage reflection on perception, leadership, empathy, and the power of words—skills that are essential for building peaceful environments and respectful relationships.

Understanding the Role of Mine-Detection Dogs

Students learning about how a mine detection dog is trained from puppyhood.

The cohort has also explored the extraordinary role of mine-detection dogs. Students learned how these animals are trained to identify explosive hazards and how, guided by human handlers, they help protect the lives of children, women, and men in affected communities. For many participants, this has been a powerful way to understand how compassion and service can come together to save lives and restore hope.

Help Build a Safer Future

Through CHAMPS, students in the U.S. and Colombia are learning to lead with empathy and advocate for a landmine-free world. By supporting MLI, you help empower young changemakers and fund life-saving efforts that protect families and communities.

Your donation helps turn education into action and creates safer futures worldwide

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