When José and I first entered the community, we partnered with families to re-roof twelve houses. At each home, we brought lunch and Coca-Cola so we could share a meal as we worked side by side. Of all twelve homes, only one family offered us anything in return. Lesly brought us bread and water. It was simple, but her warm gesture was much appreciated.

Lesly was kind, appreciative, and thoughtful. As we talked with her, we learned she dreamed of becoming a nurse. It was clear she was intelligent and respected within the community. We had no idea what we were getting ourselves into—other than wanting to help her—but eight months later we sponsored her to attend a two-year nursing program, with the agreement that she would one day serve in a community clinic that didn’t yet exist.

Last month, José and I had the privilege of attending her graduation. Lesly insisted we be there—even though it meant her parents could not attend. Afterward, we celebrated with cake and Coca-Cola with her family and friends. During the ceremony, we learned she graduated first in her class of 25 students. To think—someone from this community finishing at the very top. Her valedictorian speech was confident and mature; she had grown throughout her studies and clinical practicums. School administrators spoke highly of her, making it clear she is both skilled and compassionate.

Earlier this year, when I took a bad fall, it was Lesly who gave me several injections. The community has benefited from her becoming a nurse—and so have I.

When I first told a friend that Lesly would one day serve in our clinic, he asked, “What do you know about running a clinic?” My honest answer was: nothing. But that question led to conversations, which led to a ten-minute call with a doctor in Danlí that became the beginning of our twice-a-month medical clinic. Since then, the doctors we work with have helped several residents receive care far beyond what we can offer on site. Just last month, José and I “happened” to run into two pediatric doctors in a grocery store. They offered to help children with serious medical needs.

God brings the right people at the right time. And to think—it all began because Lesly chose to give to us while we were helping her family. This is how the Kingdom of God works: serving, giving, and God multiplying blessings in ways we never expect.

Student Scholarships

When we first arrived, we were told that only six students from the community were attending school beyond sixth grade. Whether the exact number was six or slightly higher, what was clear was that higher education opportunities were limited. Many students leave school to help support their families. Others stop attending because their desired work doesn’t require a diploma. Some simply drop out because no one encourages them to continue. For many boys especially, the pressure to leave school is strong. And for some, attending school outside the community makes them feel like outsiders—so they choose not to go.

This year, we were able to provide 23 students with scholarships. Of those, two students dropped out, but one returned and finished the year. Two others were not promoted to the next grade. Last year, one scholarship student also failed to advance; we encouraged and supported them and their family, and this year they were promoted. A small but meaningful victory.

We also celebrated one scholarship student graduating from high school and completing barber school. Carlos has faced significant medical challenges from an automobile accident years ago, but he persevered. His family insisted that José and I attend his graduation—even though it meant his grandparents could not. We were humbled by the invitation and honored to be there. Afterward, of course, there was cake and Coca-Cola (again) with his family and friends. The 1:00 p.m. ceremony began promptly at 2:30 p.m., complete with plenty of American disco music from the 70s beforehand. (Did I really live through that era?) We continue to learn the culture here.

We were grateful to represent many of you, knowing it was your prayers and financial support that helped make his graduation possible. Thank you.

Your generosity is helping students stay in school rather than dropping out and ending up in the trash dump or other extremely low-paying work. Our hope is that education will open doors for these young people. Even with a diploma, the stigma of coming from the trash-dump community is real—but as people in Danlí see these students excel, we pray it will create opportunities for those who follow after them.