During our trip to Nicaragua in March, 2017, we had the opportunity to visit both of Opportunity Tree’s projects. While there are still many challenges, Nicaragua has undergone some uplifting changes since our last visit. There are many new latrines at rural homes and a new focus on minimizing deforestation and properly disposing of trash. With these changes comes new civic pride. Nicaraguans are also extremely proud that their country was recognized this year for the greatest increase in happiness among 157 countries surveyed, as measured by a United Nations index. This civic pride and the optimism it brings with it were reflected in many conversations we had with students, teachers, and Opportunity Tree project staff.