Sorry Rick...but I don't think providing an reasoned and accurate response to a question indicates that I have an emotional problem that calls for prescriptive alcohol.
The young man asked a question and I answered it.
And why would you want to "help" a young gringo, who has managed to graduate college and presumably has had every opportunity come to Belize and take a paying job that would otherwise be available to a young Belizean, who is very unlikely to have the same opportunities as that young gringo?
It's one thing for young people to backpack around the world and enjoy themselves for awhile. That's great, and I am all for it.
But the kids that do that are doing it on THEIR DIME (or in some cases, Daddy's dime). They are not asking the Belizean economy to pay for their adventure.
Similarly, young people who sign up for an NGO program like Habitat for Humanity in a developing country, where they can do something useful while having the adventurous experience of being abroad also have my support. (By the way, most of those volunteers are required to pay their own way too, or fundraise for it at home...)
But I am opposed to providing any "help" for Americans who take paying jobs away from Belizeans so that they can live in the sun for awhile. Do you have any idea how many young Belizeans have left Belize to go to college (or serve in the US military) and can't come home to their families because they can't find jobs? Why don't you talk to some of their parents next time you are down there and see how they feel about your desire to help these young Texans get jobs in Belize? I have.
Belize is a beautiful place to live and if you can accomplish this without taking more than you give, that's great. But do it on your own dime. Either bring money or start a business that will support yourself while creating employment for the local citizens. After all, its their country.
_________________________
Susan Guberman-Garcia, Attorney at Law. Phone: 510-792-2639
Fax/Voicemail:: 510-405-2016 Email: susangg@garcia.mpowermail.com