A teen from Okotoks who was once terminally ill with Hodgkin's lymphoma is looking to build more homes in El Salvador.

Nolan Wattman, 17, was in El Salvador in 2015 with Kids Cancer Care and helped to build eight homes for families in need, now he's planning on returning next year with friends who were with him the first time and family.

Wattman says his first trip was a powerful experience.

"After I got back from there I knew I wanted to move down to El Salvador. Those people give so much to everyone around their community and they don't have a lot at all. They don't have the money to rebuild from the earthquake in 2001 so they're still living in poverty from that and that was not something I could see and not do something about."

He says he's too old for Kids Cancer Care now but is hoping to return to El Salvador in the spring to continue giving back.

"That was a life changing event. I met a bunch of good friends then once I got back from that trip I realized I should probably do what I can to give back to the community that gave back to me."

Wattman says he's looking to build 10 homes when he returns which would cost $33,000 for materials.

Those who are interested in contributing can email nolanwattman1@gmail.com.

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