The Connection A Magazine by Connect Global - Issue 11

What are the community and societal benefits of non profits

4 ways education impacts the development and growth of a nation

3 elements needed to build great relationships

The art of caring for those in your charge

Editor in Chief Javier Mendoza

Writers, Contributors, and Editors

Danielle Mendoza

Casey Raffle

Alicia Arthur

Lauren Acerra

Contact PO BOX 47381 Tampa FL 33646

Text: (844) 397-4679

Email: hello@connectglobal org

Website www connectglobal org

COVER PHOTO: Credit Nick Moore via Unsplash, We look at reflections and often see something different than what’s really there

BACK COVER PHOTO: Connect Global Board member takes a photo with students in San Juan Pueblo, Honduras on a mission trip in 2022

Everyday G e n e r o s i t y

Performing small acts of kindness and generosity can have a profound impact on the lives of others Whether it's holding the door open for someone, offering a compliment, or simply lending an ear to someone in need, these acts of kindness can brighten someone's day and bring a smile to their face

Doing these small things on a regular basis can also help to create a culture of compassion and understanding making the world a better place for everyone

Compassion without action is merely an observation The world has more than enough observers and spectators Many people care about things like the environment health and wellness or even the safety and success of the next generation but there is a line between showing care and taking action.

With the access we now have in an everconnected world, we are inundated with more information than ever before in history.

We know more about war or famine or oceanic reefs than our ancestors a generation or two ago would have even been able to imagine. Yet, we are also seeing more isolation, less empathy, and at times a lowkey disdain for knowing the plight of others when we ourselves have so much going on in our own lives to worry and stress over.

This compassion fatigue can lead to several negative effects in both those who experience it and the people around them.

Symptoms of depression or anxiety, mood swings, social withdrawal, and even, feelings of hopelessness can all develop as a result of "feeling" the weight of someone else's loss or tragedy Forget "walking a mile in their shoes"; just the thought of their journey can be enough to give us anxiety

How do we deal with this, and what is our best response for a world in need?

We give We feel We take action

The only way to begin the process of healing and restoration after trauma or grief is to go through it Some grief is unavoidable the death or loss of a parent or an economic downturn but what can change and is ultimately the only thing within our control is our response

Will we be there for our neighbors as they deal with sickness, will we take in a child who needs a safe home, and will we take the chance to walk with someone as they fight the battle of their life for their marriage or their child?

Many of us are dealing with really hard things right now, but I will encourage you that the way through these hard things is to give, not hold back Instead, practice everyday generosity in the face of turmoil

By incorporating small and big acts of generosity into our daily routine, we can help to improve the lives of those around us and bring a little bit of happiness into our circles and the world

THE BENEFITS OF A NON PROFIT ORGANIZATION

by Javier Mendoza

Nonprofit organizations play a vital role in our communities and society as a whole They are dedicated to serving the public good and working towards a common goal, whether it be providing healthcare services, promoting education, or raising awareness around any other number of important causes.

One of the main benefits of nonprofit organizations is their focus on social impact. Rather than prioritizing profit, these organizations strive to make a positive difference in the lives of those they serve This can be seen in their work to provide essential services to underserved populations, such as the homeless, refugees, or those living in poverty

Nonprofit organizations often work to augment the impact of established policy and programming for example, by ensuring that public or government funds get to those who really need them Nonprofits also work to advocate for social justice and equality and to raise awareness about important issues

Another important aspect of nonprofit organizations is their role as a source of support and resources for those in need. Many nonprofits offer programs and services that help individuals and communities to overcome challenges and achieve their goals

For example, they may offer job training, financial assistance, or counseling services. Nonprofits also often collaborate with other organizations, churches, and agencies to provide a more comprehensive range of services and support

In addition to their direct work with individuals and communities, nonprofit organizations play a key role in shaping public policy and advocating for change. They influence decision-making and bring about positive change in areas such as healthcare, education, and the environment

Overall, nonprofit organizations are an essential part of our society, working to improve the lives of individuals and communities and advocating for important causes

Here at Connect Global, we provide valuable support and resources as well as developing long-term programs that create a positive social impact and make a meaningful difference in the world.

One of the main ways Connect Global is working to make a lasting difference is by providing a comprehensive support system for mothers who have their children in the NICU in Honduras

We have seen an increase in the amount of care provided to newborns and the overall viability rate because of the specialized and attentive care we give the mothers facing these challenges

Our teams are available 24/7 and provide warm beds, hot meals, and clean facilities We even work to provide medical exams or specialized medications for the babies in the NICU when possible

This work is outside the purview of local government and other entities and therefore necessary for the people we serve, as they would typically have no other option.

We are supported by the generosity of individuals and churches who wish to see no one facing the challenges of having their children fight for their lives alone

C O N N E C T G L O B A L

M A T E R N I T Y

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GIVE WITH US

The Maternity Home was opened on September 11, 2019 Our team has been on full time rotation providing 24/7 care for the moms of La Ceiba. We care for over 600 moms a year.

It is great to see the community jump in and serve and give towards this ministry

Please consider making a monthly donation to help us maintain and operate this ministry to these precious mothers.

SAVING LIVES

Mothers from across the northern coast of Honduras, the bay islands, and many underserved communities have a safe and clean Maternity Home to receive 24/7 care in a dignified and safe facility.

DIGNITY AND COMPASSION

The Connect Global Maternity Home compassionately restores dignity, safety, and peace of mind where it is needed most

ECONOMIC RESPONSIBILTY

Our plan is to share the operational cost responsibilities with these local partners as well as others who see the value in caring for these moms.

YOUR IMPACT

When you Give With US by investing in the Maternity Home, you are helping provide life and so much more

4 Ways Education Con ib to th Dev of a

Connect Global has been investing in education initiatives here in the US and in Central America since 2017

WRITTEN BY JAVIER MENDOZA

Education is a crucial fact development of any coun especially true for develo these nations, education c important effects that hel economic and social progr

Here are four key ways in can contribute to the deve country:

Improved economic growth:

Education is closely linked to economic development, as it can help to increase productivity and innovation. When people are educated, they are more likely to be able to take on higher-skilled jobs and contribute to the economy in a more meaningful way. In addition, education can help to promote entrepreneurship and small-business growth, which can drive economic development at the local level.

Reduced poverty:

Education is also closely linked to poverty reduction When people are able to access education, they are more likely to improve their economic circumstances and escape poverty This is especially true for women and girls, who often face additional barriers to education in many developing countries By increasing access to education, governments can help to break the cycle of poverty and promote long-term development.

Enhanced social and political development:

Education is not just about economic growth; it is also closely linked to social and political development. When people are educated, they are more likely to be able to participate fully in their communities and contribute to decision-making processes. Education can also help to promote critical thinking, which is crucial for the development of a healthy democracy.

Improved health outcomes:

Finally, education can have important effects on health outcomes in developing countries

When people are educated, they are more likely to understand and be able to make informed decisions about their health They are also more likely to be able to access healthcare services and adopt healthy behaviors, which can help to reduce rates of disease and improve overall health outcomes

By investing in education, governments and nonprofit organizations can drive economic growth, reduce poverty, enhance social and political development, and improve health outcomes.

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

We have been able to invest over $200K directly into education centers, through personnel and infrastructure investments

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

CONNECT GLOBAL EDUCATION FUND

SUPPORT EDUCATION WITH CONNECT GLOBAL

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GIVE WITH US

Connect Global has made an impact, thanks to generous people just like YOU!

It has long been our desire and one of the guiding pillars of our work around the world to provide quality education to as many people as we can.

Connect Global has provided logistical support, aided in classroom construction and rehabilitation efforts, and we have provided clean water access to schools since 2004.

TEACHER SUPPORT

We invest in teachers and educators through grants, payroll assistance, and continuing education programs

STUDENT SCHOLARSHIPS

Full and partial scholarships are awarded to help keep kids who are most vulnerable to dropout in school

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

Working with leaders, churches, and businesses we can share the responsibilities and success of a more education-focused community

ECONOMIC STIMULATION

While investing in education certainly has individual benefits, the community at large is improved when teachers and administrators are employed.

When you Give With US by investing in the Global Education Fund, you are helping provide education and so much more

Sustainability

What are the environmental benefits of aquaponics?

By Javier Mendoza

Aquaponics is a sustainable food-growing method that combines aquaculture (the cultivation of fish) with hydroponics (the growing of plants without soil). This method offers a number of environmental benefits over traditional agricultural practices

Aquaponics uses up to 90% less water than traditional agriculture.

In a traditional farm, water is often lost to evaporation and runoff and must be constantly replenished However, in an aquaponic system, the water is recycled and reused, making it a much more efficient use of resources This not only conserves water in already water-deprived areas but also reduces the amount of water pollution caused by agricultural runoff.

Aquaponics is a closed system, meaning that it does not rely on external inputs such as fertilizer or pesticides.

Instead, fish waste provides a natural source of nutrients for the plants, and beneficial bacteria in the system convert the waste into a form that the plants can use. This eliminates the need for chemical fertilizers and pesticides, which can be harmful to the environment

A healthy fish grown from an aquaponic system built by Connect Global National Director, Jorge Amador

The Best for This Month

Aquaponics can be used in urban and remote settings, making it possible to grow food in areas where traditional agriculture is not feasible.

This is especially beneficial for cities, where the lack of space and access to land can make it difficult to grow food locally This not only reduces the carbon footprint of transportation but also increases food security in urban areas.

Aquaponics is a more efficient use of land.

Traditional agriculture requires large areas of land to grow crops and often results in the destruction of natural habitats. Aquaponics, on the other hand, can be done in a much smaller area and can even be done in vertical systems, thus saving even more space This can help preserve natural habitats and biodiversity

Connect Global has been implementing small, family-sized aquaponic systems in communities across Central America since 2012 We have built systems with new and used items to make the best use of the land space and available materials We have seen success in many of these systems because of the commitment of those who fully understand these environmental benefits as well as the community benefits of a fully functional aquaponic food system

Finally, aquaponics is a sustainable food source that can support local communities.

By growing food locally, communities can reduce their dependence on imported and overly processed food, which is often grown using unsustainable practices. This not only supports the local economy but also ensures that the food being consumed is fresh and healthy.

Each of our family-sized aquaponic systems can grow several hundreds of pounds of healthy, leafy greens as well as produce hearty fish to eat as well We are able to build a complete system for $1500

BUILDING GREAT RELATIONSHIPS

by Javier & Danielle Mendoza

Great relationships are built on the foundation of trust, stability, and consistency. When these three elements are present, they create an environment where people feel secure, valued, and respected

Trust is the foundation of all great relationships It is the belief that the other person is reliable and honest and has your best interests at heart Without trust, relationships can quickly deteriorate, causing anxiety, suspicion, and conflict To build trust, it is important to be transparent and open about your thoughts feelings and actions It is also crucial to keep your promises and to always act with integrity.

John C Maxwell is a renowned speaker, author, and leadership expert He emphasizes that trust is a critical aspect of any relationship and must be built over time through consistent behavior

According to Maxwell, trust is built through integrity honesty transparency and the ability to keep one ’ s promises. He also emphasizes the importance of treating others with respect and being reliable in all situations

3 keys to building great relationships that create an environment where people feel secure, valued, and respected.

Maxwell believes that trust is the foundation for building strong relationships and that it is essential for success in both personal and professional life. By building trust through consistent behavior, we create an environment of respect, security, and confidence, which allows relationships to grow and flourish.

Stability is also an important aspect of building great relationships This means having a consistent pattern of behavior, communication, and support When people know what to expect from each other, they feel secure and confident in the relationship

bility also helps to foster a se of comfort and dictability, which is ential for building a strong d lasting bond Stability in ationships is crucial for lding trust and creating a se of security and comfort. table relationship is one in ich both partners are committed to each other and ogether

The benefits of emotionally safe and stable relationships include:

You feel valued and valuable

You can truly be yourself without the risk of judgment

You can show your weaknesses without being taken advantage of

You can share boldly and express yourself freely

You feel seen heard and understood.

Brené Brown is a researcher and author who has studied vulnerability courage shame and empathy. She believes that stability in relationships is built on a foundation of trust, empathy, and vulnerability

According to Brown, stability is created when people feel seen, heard, and understood by their partner She also emphasizes the importance of being vulnerable and open with one ’ s partner, which helps to build trust and intimacy

Brown believes that relationships need stability to thrive and that this stability is achieved when people are willing to be vulnerable with each other, share their fears and insecurities and support each other through challenges. By creating a stable and supportive environment, we can build relationships that are strong, resilient, and fulfilling

Consistency is the key to maintaining stability in a relationship. It is the ability to consistently act in a certain way, even in challenging or stressful situations This can be demonstrated by consistently following through on commitments, showing up for important events, and being reliable in all areas of life Consistency builds trust and strengthens relationships over time, as people come to know that they can count on each other no matter what

By working to build trust stability, and consistency, we can build strong and lasting relationships with those we care about most When these three elements are present, they create an environment where people feel secure, valued, and respected Strong relationships are the foundational building blocks of all worthy pursuits We must get community and relationships right if we are going to make a lasting impact in this world

P O D C A S T

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THE ART OF CARING FOR THOSE IN YOUR CHARGE

by Javier Mendoza

Leadership is not about asserting power or being in charge; it’s about serving others and taking care of those in your charge This truth, shared by Simon Sinek, perfectly encapsulates the essence of true leadership it’s about putting the needs of others first and leading by example.

Leadership is about serving others. A true leader is someone who is willing to put the needs of their team or organization before their own They understand that their role is to support, guide, and empower others to achieve their goals A great leader is always willing to lend a helping hand and is always looking for ways to serve others. Leaders make room for others to succeed. They create spaces that encourage the best ideas to take center stage and make it possible for others to feel heard and appreciated

Leadership is about taking care of those in your charge. A true leader is someone who cares deeply about the well-being of their team or organization. They understand that their role is to create a positive and supportive environment where everyone can thrive A great leader is one who is always looking for ways to improve the lives of those they lead. Care of others is not easy. It takes depth of character to genuinely care for others. True care for those in your charge is demonstrated not by the results that are achieved but by how you leave someone feeling about themselves, their task, and their leader

Great leaders are deeply compassionate and empathetic. They are able to understand the needs of their team and put themselves in others' shoes. They understand that effective leadership is not just about making decisions, but also about caring for the people who make those decisions

Compassion and empathy are not automatic Even if you are a truly empathetic person by nature, it takes intentional nurturing of that inclination to truly become not just aware of the plight of others but able to anticipate and to be out ahead of their needs before the need can even be expressed

FINDMOREARTICLESLIKETHIS ONEONMEDIUM

Leadership is not about being in charge; it’s about serving others and taking care of those in your charge.

It’s about creating a positive and supportive environment where everyone can thrive. By leading with compassion and empathy, we can help others achieve their goals and positively impact the world

True leadership is about caring deeply for those you lead and making a positive difference in their lives.

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Partner With Us

It is your generosity that allows us to impact so many lives. Whether you are giving towards a specific project or to where it is needed most, you can rest assured Connect Global will make sure every donation is used for maximum impact.

We take our work very seriously and we operate responsibly. We have focused on learning as much as we can about the issues we tackle and we invest our time, energy, and resources smartly and with great care.

We personally visit the places you see on our website and will always take great care in reporting to you our successes as well as our failures on the field.

We keep You, our partners, informed of the ongoing programs and share the joy of each completed project Our monthly updates to donors as well as our public communication via social media give everyone the chance to understand the work we are committed to.

We are committed to the highest standards for the use of funds. We use the donations for the purpose, for which they are given We keep our administrative and fundraising costs as low as possible.

We provide food for the hungry, hope for the hopeless, and a place for people to become who they were created to be. We invite you to join us by giving and also by visiting the places we serve. You will be glad you did.