In 1992 the idea originated between Gudrun Pavel and Iva Carvalho Engels - secretary to the Brazilian Consulate in Aachen - to take on the social responsibility for the poorest region in Northern Brazil. There is so much surplus in the Western World that we wanted to give something back. The prerequisites were good. Iva's family would take responsibility for and manage the entire administrative centre. The Consulate in Aachen would support the project. Despite critical remarks by some of the country's experts, the project started with a little sewing room and the distribution of basic foodstuffs for the poor of the interior at Barão de Grajaú/Maranhão, birthplace of Iva Carvalho Engels (15,000 habitants, situated one day's journey - by plane and jeep - away from São Paulo).

Since then this has developed into the "Fundação Pavel" Foundation, with twelve social activities.

The Organisation

The top body is the Fundação Pavel, which is situated in Barão de Grajaú/Maranhão. All the social activities are centered there. The project is led by Gudrun Pavel and the Brazilian Consulate in Aachen. The organisation of the individual projects is carried out by 25 co-workers, some of the helpers are honorary volunteers. One in particular is Creuza Carvalho, who has been responsible for all the financial aspects from the beginning, as well as her brother Ovidio Carvalho, a selfless 'doer' and the driver of our Foundation. They are Iva's brother and sister.

The Finances

The project is funded exclusively by private donations. All the money received goes 100% towards the project. There are no administrative or organisational costs. Most of the helpers are volunteers. The Foundation is recognised by the State (one of a few in Brazil), which means that all donations in Brazil, as well as in Germany, are tax deductible. Vouchers for contributions are given.

We depend on donations for the survival of our project. The running costs alone (before any investment in new "dreams") amount to appr. EUR 100,000.

We are deeply grateful in advance! Let's make these dreams come true together!