The Connection — A Magazine by Connect Global — Issue 13

Gen Optimizing our environment for Growth

is

force to be appreciated

Editor in Chief Javier Mendoza

Writers, Contributors, and Editors Danielle Mendoza, Javier Mendoza

COVER PHOTO: Javier, Danielle, and Saige at The Church at Asheville

BACK COVER PHOTO: Javier and Danielle Mendoza at Revival Temple September/October 2023

In life, growth is what weaves our experiences, aspirations, and potential into a meaningful whole It is the catalyst that propels us forward, enabling us to surpass our current state and reach for new heights But why is growth so crucial, and how can we cultivate the optimal conditions for it to flourish?

Why Do We Need to Grow?

Growth is an intrinsic part of the human experience It is the driving force behind our development, both personally and collectively Without growth, we stagnate, and the fullness of life eludes us Through growth, we uncover hidden talents, expand our horizons, and develop a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us It allows us to adapt to challenges, seize opportunities, and become the best versions of ourselves

What Do We Need for Growth

To foster growth, we require a blend of key elements: curiosity, resilience, and a willingness to embrace discomfort Curiosity fuels our desire to explore, learn, and evolve It encourages us to seek out new experiences and knowledge, broadening our perspectives Resilience, on the other hand, is the armor that shields us from the blows of setbacks and failures It enables us to bounce back, wiser and more determined than before

Embracing discomfort is perhaps the most vital ingredient Growth often emerges from stepping outside our comfort zones, where we encounter challenges that push us to adapt and learn

How Do We Set Up the Optimal Environment for Growth?

Creating the right environment for growth is like nurturing a plant It requires attention, intention, and specific care Surround yourself with inspiration: books, mentors, and communities that ignite your passion and curiosity Establish clear goals and a strategic plan to achieve them This will serve well, steering you through the inevitable ups and downs Cultivate a growth mindset, viewing challenges as opportunities rather than annoying obstacles You must allow yourself the grace to learn from mistakes and always celebrate victories along the way

How Do We Handle Setbacks While Growing?

Setbacks are not permanent; they are merely detours on the path to growth When faced with challenges, it's essential to maintain a growth-oriented perspective Just because growth is hindered in the moment does not mean it won’t come you may just need to reach out

Seek support from mentors, friends, or colleagues who can offer guidance and encouragement.

Remember, setbacks are not a reflection of your worth or potential; they are a natural part of the growth process.

Growth is the heartbeat of human existence. It propels us forward, enabling us to tap into our fullest potential. To foster growth, we must embrace curiosity, resilience, and our own discomfort

Creating the right environment involves intention, structure, and a positive mindset

Lastly, remember, when setbacks arise, as they inevitably will, view them as stepping stones rather than stumbling blocks

ThePassingofa Baton

BY JAVIER & DANIELLE MENDOZA

Connect Global celebrates a wonderful milestone Danielle and I have had the honor and privilege of serving in Honduras since 2004 Throughout these years, alongside our exceptional ministry and church partners, we ’ ve been privileged to touch the lives of women, children, and men across more than half of Honduras’ 18 departments

When we established Connect Global in 2012, our goal was to create a more personal and intimate form of service and community development. In 2015, our family took a bold step and moved to La Ceiba, Honduras, with our young daughter Saige, immersing ourselves in what we named our “Connected Community” initiative.

After 7 years of compassionate care and diligent service

Connect Global passes the baton of the Maternity Home

This initiative allowed us to work closely with pastors, teachers, frontline workers, and business leaders to truly understand and address the needs of the community

Through this experience one of the main needs we observed was for a clean and dignified place for mothers to receive immediate postnatal care We saw that for decades in La Ceiba, mothers who had just given birth would be relegated to sitting on hard concrete sidewalks and makeshift cardboard pallets as they waited anxiously on the status of the baby in intensive care or NICU to improve

Many times this would lead to infection, prolonged healing times, and low viability for their newborns. We began to ask questions and learn as much as we could about the issues facing these mothers and what needed to be done about it. That year we embarked on an awareness raising campaign in which several generous individuals and churches said YES with us to begin solving this problem

Driven by compassion and guided by a deep sense of purpose, we embarked on a journey to address this issue Thanks to the generosity of many individuals and churches, we raised an astounding $200,000 over three years This outpouring of support was overwhelming and inspiring, reflecting the goodness within our growing community

A combination of serendipitous timing, our direct fundraising, and the release of US government funding, led to the Maternity Home becoming a reality, opening its doors on September 11, 2019

Will Guidara,

While under our direct leadership for 47 weeks, we were privileged to serve each day, caring for a total of 2,241 mothers and their newborns

This ministry quickly became a haven of physical and spiritual healing, made possible by the dedication of our incredible staff Through every triumph and challenge, we have been reminded of the grace and presence of God in every step

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Jorge and Janeth Amador, a remarkable couple who tirelessly oversaw the daily operations of the Maternity Home for all four years of our commitment

Their consistency, compassion, and dedication have left an indelible mark on the lives they touched. Many of you have met them in person and still many others have heard us talk about them over the years. I want to personally say ‘Thank You’ to them for their service.

From making every mother feel welcomed and loved, to ensuring the upkeep and maintenance of the building we were stewarding, to the late night and early morning phone calls, text messages and emergencies they have truly done a great job.

Jorge has worked with us for almost 2 decades and he has served in missions for much longer, together with his wife, Janeth and their two young daughters they have served Connect Global in La Ceiba since 2016.

“Often,theperfectmoment togivesomeonemore responsibilityisbefore they’reready.”

“Unreasonable Hospitality”

Triumph& Tragedy

These 4 years we have modeled how a Maternity Home can and should operate. With 24/7 attention, hot meals, clean showers, laundry facilities, spiritual care, and much more. As you can imagine, in these 1,450 days we have seen both triumph and tragedy. We have shared some of the most beautiful moments in a parents life as well as some of the saddest. We are grateful for every single day. It has shown us that God is with us, there is a plan for our life, and it is up to each of us to share that love far and wide.

This month (September 2023) we experience joy coupled with lament once more as we officially pass the baton of care and operational oversight of this wonderful Maternity Home to the Regional Hospital at Atlántida in Honduras and those who will come alongside to champion this worthy cause .

We have provided not only wonderful, loving and hospitable care but we have given a 4 year head start and a near perfect template for how every Maternity Home in Honduras should look, operate, and care for the mothers across their nation

We remain humbled by your support, your faith in our mission, and your dedication to spreading love and hope As we move forward, we eagerly anticipate new journeys, partnerships, and opportunities to make a positive impact on mothers, their children and all who God places in our path Our hearts are full of gratitude and excitement as we look forward to the future and the many ways we will continue to serve and uplift communities worldwide

ThankYoufor yourgenerosity

Onward& Upward

In life's boundless sea, we set our sail, No backward glances, no regret's to unveil. Forward, we march, our heads held high, In peace we move, toward open sky. The past, a chapter, lessons learned well, Now onward, upward, stories of impact to tell. With courage at the helm, we chart our way, Embracing the call of a brand-new day.

No heavy burdens, no anchors to bear, Just dreams and hopes, with love we’ll care. Each step a melody, a dance of grace, As we journey forward, completing our race. Through valleys and peaks, steadily we climb, In every moment, we'll make the most of time. Filled with compassion, our next action is set, Moving onward and upward, no room for regret.

EMBRACING CHANGE

by Javier Mendoza, Co Founder of Connect Global

Nothing is promised and there are no overnight successes when building our business or organization When leading our companies, our teams, or even our families we need to accept that leaders are learners. We are perpetual students in the journey of life and we need to find ways to make ourselves and those around us better We need to be able to embrace change and ultimately welcome the transformation into what it is that we desire to see in ourself and the world. Three ways we embrace change are by learning the value of change, cultivating resilience, and leading confidently through the change.

3 WAYS TO EMBRACE CHANGE AS A LEADER

"Change is not something that we should fear. Rather, it is something that we should welcome. For without change, nothing in this world would ever grow or blossom, and no one in this world would ever move forward to become the person they're meant to be."

-

B.K.S. IYENGAR

LEARN THE VALUE OF CHANGE

One of the most important things we do as leaders is learning the Value of Change. Embracing change provides us and our teams with a great deal of positive potential Change is inevitable and while many are not fans of change those who recognize its upside are at a great advantage. Being adaptable to change allow for quick recovery when something bad comes along We need to be prepared with a plan of attack but also realize that as leaders we will never be fully prepared for everything that comes our way. Having agility in the face of adversity builds resilience over time

CULTIVATE RESILIENCE

Cultivating Resilience in our Leadership is what will differentiate us from the masses. Many people when faced with challenges are unprepared and buckle under the weight of the shifts Resilience allows us to withstand the obstacles in our way and give us the ability to recover quickly when things go wrong This takes making decisions multiple steps ahead so that we are not bogged down by the current pressures Todays problems should have already been processed and mitigated by the time we are addressing them and while there may be unexpected bumps we can be ready to face them because of our experiences and our success at dealing with change in the past. Resilience is a muscle every leaders needs to develop

"The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall."

- NELSON

MANDELA

LEAD WITH CONFIDENCE

Leading with Confidence makes others around us feel empowered, and certain of the future even when they can't see through the gun smoke The way in which you communicate your confidence will make all the difference in the ability of your team to embrace change or handle setbacks. Confidence is contagious. It is not so much communicated through words but most times through actions and through consistency. People learn to trust you when they see you execute over and over. Decisiveness is important when facing adversity in the battles of life People will detect uncertainty and begin to fear the future unless they have someone confident to follow This doesn't mean you know every possible answer or every outcome but you have a plan, you take action, and you provide the next steps for those around you.

"Consider it nothing but joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you fall into various trials. Be assured that the testing of your faith [through experience] produces endurance [leading to spiritual maturity, and inner peace]. And let endurance have its perfect result and do a thorough work, so that you may be perfect and completely developed [in your faith], lacking in nothing"

—JAMES 1:2-4

As leaders, we will not always like the cards we are dealt. Change is a part of the journey. We can and need to control as many of the 'inputs' as possible and be ready for the unpredictable. As long as we have equipped our teams with a secure understanding of the 'why’ and 'what' they will find the 'how' even in the face of change and adversity

3WAYS

GenZisimpacting theworldthrough Charityand Philanthropy

by Javier Mendoza, Co-Founder of Connect Global

Generation Z, or those born between 1997 and 2012, are often referred to as the “activist generation” due to their commitment to social and political causes. This dedication to making a difference is also evident in their approach to charity and philanthropy

Here are three ways Generation Z is making a difference in the world of charity:

Using social media to spread awareness and mobilize support

Generation Z is the first generation to grow up in the age of social media, and they are using it to their advantage when it comes to charity. They are adept at using platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter to spread awareness about causes they care about and mobilize support for them. This has helped to bring attention to a wide range of issues, from environmental conservation to maternal healthcare, and has helped to galvanize support for charitable organizations working on these issues

Donating their time and skills

In addition to donating money, many Generation Z members also give their time and skills to charitable causes This can include volunteering their time to work with organizations directly or using their skills in areas like marketing or design to help promote and support causes they care about. By donating their time and skills, they are able to have a more hands-on impact and make a difference in a more tangible way.

Supporting smaller, grassroots organizations

Generation Z is also more likely to support smaller, grassroots organizations rather than larger, more established charities. They are drawn to organizations that are making a real difference and that align with their values, and they are often willing to take a chance on newer organizations that are working on innovative solutions to social and environmental issues. This support can be crucial for these smaller organizations, as it can help them to grow and scale their impact

In conclusion, Gen Z is making a significant difference in the world of charity through their use of social media, their willingness to donate their time and skills, and their support of smaller, grassroots organizations. Their dedication to making a positive impact is helping to drive change and bring attention to important causes around the world.

VOLUNTEER WITH US

Here at Connect Global, we are grateful to have volunteers of different ages, backgrounds, and experiences

We know that our organization is made better by the contributions of those in generation z and together we will be impacting future generations for decades to come

If you would like to Volunteer with Us, please check out these opportunities:

HOWTOSUPPORT LITERACYWITHCONNECT GLOBALANDBUILDA BRIGHTFUTURE

WRITTEN BY JAVIER MENDOZA

In a world that is constantly evolving, there remains one constant truth: investing in our children is an investment in the future The path to a brighter tomorrow begins with empowering the next generation through education, today. At the heart of this movement lies a fundamental skill that unlocks doors of opportunity: literacy

By getting involved with Connect Global, you can play an integral role in supporting literacy and education among students around the world, making a lasting impact on their lives and the communities they belong to.

INVESTINGINYOUTH:THEFOUNDATIONOFABETTERFUTURE

Our now and next generations hold the power to shape the world Providing them with quality education equips them with the tools to break free from the cycles of poverty, ignorance, and limited opportunities As we invest in their education, we invest in building capable, informed, and responsible citizens who will contribute meaningfully to society. Education empowers people to dream, to innovate, and to become leaders who build a brighter future

THEPOWEROFLITERACY:O ORTUNITY

Literacy is a skill that empowers individuals to comprehend, communicate, and engage with the world around them Literacy is more than just the ability to read and write; it’s the key that opens the door to a lifetime of learning and achievement. With literacy, individuals can access knowledge, express their thoughts, and participate actively in civic life. It’s a skill that fosters critical thinking, enhances communication, and boosts self-confidence. Through the power of literacy, individuals can navigate our rapidly changing world and contribute in meaningful ways

JOININGHANDSWITHCONNECTGLOBAL:MAKINGANIMPACT

Connect Global understands the significance of literacy and education in shaping a brighter future We have long pioneered and championed education initiatives, student scholarships, and school partnerships that fuel positive impact. By partnering with Connect Global, you can play a crucial role in supporting students around the world in their educational journey. Your involvement can provide resources for books, educational tools, and programs that empower young minds to learn and grow. Through your generous donations, your contribution can create a ripple effect that touches lives far beyond what you can imagine

HOWYOUCANGIVEWITHUS

Getting involved with Connect Global and supporting literacy is as simple as taking the first step. Consider making a financial donation to help provide resources to students in need Engage with Connect Global’s initiatives to support education, and spread awareness about the importance of education. Your voice, your time, and your commitment can transform lives and ignite a chain reaction of positive change.

By investing in education, governments and nonprofit organizations like Connect Global can drive the growth of strong economies and healthy communities

Our societal impact ensures equality through personal empowerment and foster development at all levels.

Connect Global continues to prioritize education as a key component of its development strategies and initiatives.

You can find out more about our efforts on our website: ConnectGlobal.org/education

SUSTAINABLE MISSION

by javier mendoza

Connect Global was born out of the simple idea that we could discover and implement sustainable, community-driven solutions to some of the world’s most pressing issues.

Problems such as food and water scarcity, the lack of access to education, and inadequate healthcare can all be solved if we just could just rally our friends and family around embracing solutions and empowering those around us to make a difference.

One of the first issues we took on was food scarcity and the solution became creating a way for local leaders to gain knowledge about fish farming and help them source the materials needed to build basic, but efficient aquaponic food growing systems.

These systems can grow fish and vegetation in the same space it takes to grow a traditional in-ground garden.

We sought out training from others who had expertise in each of these different disciplines as we knew that in order to make a long-lasting impact we would need to be able to provide holistic solutions. We called our plan, Connected Community. It would become our blueprint for helping communities in need and provide us with a way to measure our impact.

We sit with local leaders to hear firsthand what problems they are facing and we learn as much as we can Being informed by those closest to the issue proves to be one of the greatest assets in the work we do.

I am so proud of the leaders we have working for Connect Global and I could not be happier with how we have been able to rise up and meet new challenges together in order to continue to keep creating solutions every day

We have much work to do but together we are making a huge impact on food insecurity for many families across Central America and we are grateful to our supporters and partners for making this work possible each day.

SHARING A BETTER WAY TO FARM

Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day; teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime

MECHANICS OF AQUAPONICS

In an aquaculture environment, effluents accumulate in the water, increasing toxicity for the fish. In our system, water is led to a hydroponic growbed where the byproducts from the aquaculture are filtered out by the plants as vital nutrients, after which the cleansed water is recirculated back to the fish

FROM CONCEPT TO REALITY

Since the founding of Connect Global, we have focused on and invested in sustainable solutions to problems like food scarcity One of the continuing projects we are expanding as a part of our overall strategy to serve those affected by hunger is Aquaponic Food Systems and Small Urban and Micro Farms like the ones on the left.

PLANTING FOR THE FUTURE

New Aquaponic systems work all year, using 90% less water to produce food for people in need We are actively building systems throughout Honduras, Costa Rica, and Colombia this year.

P O D C A S T

Shaping Culture, Improving Society,& Investingin theFuture

By Javier Mendoza

In a world characterized by rapid technological advancements, shifting socio-economic landscapes, and unforeseen global crises, the need for proactive and transformative initiatives has never been more evident As an organization, Connect Global’s unwavering commitment to shaping culture, improving society, and investing in the future stands as a testament to our dedication in overcoming the obstacles our world currently faces.

Through a focused approach on education and career development, we empower individuals to thrive amidst uncertainty, fostering positive change on both local and global scales

At the heart of our mission lies the endeavor to get students in school and keep them engaged in their educational journey. Recognizing that education is the cornerstone of progress, we work to remove barriers that hinder students from pursuing their studies. From scholarships and financial aid to mentorship and skill-building tools, we address the diverse challenges students encounter, ensuring they remain on the path to learning despite financial, social, or personal constraints

Here at Connect Global we understand that a student’s journey doesn’t end with graduation. Our commitment extends to helping graduates navigate the landscape of ongoing education and career pursuits.

We recognize that post-graduation challenges can be daunting, from transitioning to the workforce to pursuing advanced studies Our initiatives provide tailored support, including career counseling, networking, and access to resources that enable graduates to make informed decisions and forge successful career paths.

In the face of global challenges such as economic uncertainties, technological disruptions, and health crises, our organization’s approach remains adaptable and resilient. The COVID-19 pandemic, for instance, showcased our agility in swiftly transitioning to remote learning environments, ensuring that education remained uninterrupted even in times of adversity By embracing innovation and leveraging technology, we demonstrate that challenges can be transformed into opportunities for growth and advancement.

One individual who, through her own observation of our initiatives while volunteering at one of our programs, was so inspired she enrolled in nursing school to begin completing her secondary education and gain her healthcare worker certification. She is now one of our scholarship beneficiaries. As she builds her future she will indelibly change the future for many because of her selfless service to others.

By investing in inspiring, diverse, and inclusive learning environments, we cultivate a generation of individuals who witness ‘compassion in action’ and want to possess the tools to address pressing global issues. By nurturing these desires, we are actively shaping a culture of compassion, resilience, and progress in students and unlocking potential for a brighter future that starts today.

DIDYOUKNOW?

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Faith

At Connect Global, our unwavering faith in Jesus is the bedrock of our purpose. We stand firmly on the teachings of the Bible, shaping our actions and endeavors. Guided by the Great Commission inspired by the example of Jesus, and empowered by the Holy Spirit we are committed to meeting both the spiritual and practical needs of those we serve.

Our faith propels us to action, whether we are tending to needs in our local communities here in the US or extending our reach globally. Through every endeavor, we strive to embody the compassion and actions exemplified by Jesus during His earthly ministry.

As we press forward in faith, we believe that every act of service, every hand extended, is a tangible expression of our devotion to Jesus and His call to love and serve others

WE WANT TO PRAY WITH YOU!

Thank You for allowing us the privilege of praying with you.

Simply, text “Pray for Me” to (844) 397-4679 and a member of our team will be in prayer with you and we will reach out only if you want us to!

WaystoPray

Jesus,

You are the ultimate giver of all good things, and I am grateful for Your abundant blessings in my life. Teach me to be generous in all that I do, to share with others as You have shared with me. May my heart overflow with compassion and a willingness to give without expecting anything in return. Use me as an instrument of Your love and grace. Amen.

Dear Lord,

In moments of doubt and uncertainty, help me to lean on my faith in You. Strengthen my trust and confidence in Your divine plan, knowing that You hold the future in Your hands. Fill me with the assurance that even in the midst of challenges, You are working all things for my good. I surrender my worries and fears, placing my faith in Your unwavering love. Amen.

Heavenly Father, You have shown me boundless love, and I am called to extend that love to others. Grant me the grace to see people through Your eyes, to offer kindness, understanding, and compassion to those I encounter. Help me to put aside judgment and embrace the diversity of Your creation. May my actions reflect the love You have poured into my heart. Amen.

Faith shows the reality of what we hope for; it is the evidence of things we cannot see." - Hebrews 11:1 (NLT)