FALL/WINTER 2019 VOLUME 28
Care for today. Hope for tomorrow.
LETTER FROM THE DIRECTOR “Anytime I look back to my family I feel I want to do something. That is, I'm going to help back my family, I’m going to give back to my family and mostly to Back2Back and mostly to my community. When we started it wasn’t easy. My brother Ayuba is here, he knows the struggle. Yes, there are many times that you get people telling you, ‘What is Back2Back giving to you?’ ‘What are you doing?’ But we in the Back2Back program, we know what we are benefiting. I am encouraging you - do not look back on (those) people. Do not pay attention to whatever people say to you. But keep it in your heart that you – you are an ambassador of Kisayip Village and you are going to do amazing things. One day you and I and others, we are going to be presidents.We are going to be doctors. We are going to be in the offices that are going to make a change. We stand to make a change. And even if we are not many, just one or two are in those positions and make a difference, it's just different from one person. According to the Centers for Disease Control half of the world’s one billion children have experienced trauma. One billion children! Without action, without intervention, this number will only grow as generations of hurting children produce hurting children of their own.
You are going to do that. I believe strongly. And I know you are going to grow and we are going to do amazing things. God bless you.”
While incredibly hard to accomplish, the actual solution to this pandemic is not complex; orphaned and vulnerable children everywhere need the presence of a safe adult in their lives. People are the most valuable resource in the fight against trauma in the lives of orphaned and vulnerable children.
I was moved to tears, not only because of what Joshua said, but because he is part of the community of believers who poured into Godwin. Joshua is a few years ahead of Godwin and he gets it. The safe adults in Joshua’s life created stepping stones and paths to healing from his challenging circumstances. Now it was happening for Godwin. I look forward to the day we catch Godwin on video speaking life into the generation coming behind him.
Let me tell you how I recently saw this reality firsthand. This past summer I travelled to Back2Back’s Nigeria site and witnessed a graduation celebration for Godwin, a recent high school graduate from Back2Back’s Hope Education Program. I found myself thinking during the celebration, “Godwin did not get to this point alone. He had a community of safe adults encouraging and building into him over the last eight years of his schooling and discipleship.”
During this fall season, every Back2Back site and department is prayerfully making plans for next year. It is the time of year when we seek God for continued direction, provision, and affirmation. As we head to the end of 2019, celebrate with us the victory in Godwin’s life, as well as the lives of children we serve all around the world. There is healing. There is hope. There is a future. With the power of Jesus, let’s be caring adults in the lives of children everywhere.*
During the celebration, we each had an opportunity to share words of encouragement with Godwin, but the most powerful moment was when Joshua, a peer from Godwin’s village, spoke. I captured the moment on video, and this is a transcript of what Joshua said:
Todd Guckenberger, Executive Director of Back2Back Ministries
*You can learn to be the kind of caring adult that orphaned and vulnerable children need in their lives through Back2Back’s Trauma Care Training. Visit back2back.org/training and join caregivers from nearly 70 countries who are bringing healing to the over 250,000 children they serve.
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Call to Share&Their 5AHopes, Dreams BlazingLives a Trail
VISION
We desire for every orphan and vulnerable child to have the opportunity for success through “Care for today and Hope for tomorrow.� The goal is each child would experience restoration to a life of purpose in which they can become fulfilled and mature Christian adults.
MISSION
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Back2Back Ministries is an international Christian
Cause for Celebration 13 Right Time
non-profit organization dedicated to being a voice for orphans. We exist to love and care for orphaned and vulnerable children, by meeting their spiritual, physical, educational, emotional and social needs so they may overcome their life circumstances and break free from
11 We Never Did That Before
the cycle of generational poverty.
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9Will More Than aSo Memory More Be Box 17 Everyone Belongs
YOUR LOGO
We would like to thank One Point Printing for partnering with Back2Back by offering us high-quality printing.
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by Beth Guckenberger, Author and Co-Executive Director of Back2Back Ministries We advocate for vulnerable children in many ways - tutoring after school, birthday parties, field trips, doctor visits, and quiet conversations. We fight for children to have healthy meals, and safe places to live. One way we fight for kids is spiritually. Spiritual warfare isn’t pretty. The enemy doesn’t want vulnerable children freed, he wants them bound. He doesn’t want families strengthened or reunified, He wants them divided. We pray the effects of trauma to be healed, and for mission guests to be inspired and challenged. We invite you to join us as we pray specifically for staff to stay on mission, this work, and the people in it (children, students, volunteers, interns, mission guests, advocates, caregivers, pastors) to grow together and advance. The Lord has given us tools and spiritual practices we can trace back to biblical stories.Although not an exhaustive list, here are some ways I’m inviting this community to stand strong: See people as God does, forgive liberally, listen well. Proverbs 19:11 It is to a man’s benefit to overlook an offense. This works against the enemy’s desire to divide people, cause strife, and create conflict. This is, perhaps, his favorite. If he can stir up trouble among God’s family, then we spend our energy working against each other and not against him. Take thoughts captive and focus on Him, not our fear. Isaiah 26:3 You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you. This helps with the attach of fear and anxiety. If we are busy worrying about what has, is, or could happen, we are stunned to inactivity. Gospel advancement screeches to a halt, and we are overwhelmed with emotions which make us want to quit. Know yourself and your weakness, get accountability. James 4:7 Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. This fights temptation. We are imperfect and shiny fruits have been tripping us up since the garden. We can have an appetite for the wrong things. When anyone succumbs to temptation, we are forgiven, but not exempt from consequences. Ask Him for His perspective. Our hope comes from the Lord. Deuteronomy 31:8 The Lord is the one who goes ahead of you; He will be with you. He will not fail you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed. This will dispel doubt/discouragement and hopelessness. “Is this working?” “Making a difference?” Setbacks are a normal part of the rhythm of warfare, and knowing they are coming can go a long way in dispelling them. Our job isn’t results, it’s obedience. God measures our
availability and when we don’t see transpire what we were hoping, we have to believe He is in control and will use all things for His glory. Test and approve. Stay in fellowship. 1 Peter 5:8-9 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist him, steadfast in the faith...This strategy works against deception. He is the father of lies and can make what is wrong seem right. He can impact our perception, entice lying, and foster hiding, trickery, cheating, fraud, duplicity, and deceit. It takes discernment to know the difference and not fall under this scheme. Teach children how to call on the “name of Jesus” and discern when something is happening to them, instead of because of them. 2 Thessalonians 3:3 But the Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one. This equips kids to fight as the enemy seeks to harm the family. When the enemy can’t get to you, he goes after who is around you. God is ultimately our Shepherd, but He’s given us authority over our families and we can use that spiritual authority in this fight. Remember who you are in Christ. Remember you’ve been forgiven and your identity is as His child. You are not what you’ve done or has been done to you. Confess your sins and fears to the Lord and one another. Shame will dissipate. Psalms 103:3-4 God forgives all your sins, heals all your diseases, redeems your life from the pit, crowns you with steadfast love and mercy. These are tools to use to fight shame. He’s been trying since the very beginning to separate us from each other and from God. It’s isolating, and debilitating.
Sometimes, when we see an artist rendering of spiritual warfare, God is represented as the same size of Satan, however these are not characters of the same size. This enemy has to submit to the spiritual reality he doesn’t have God’s power. We are co-heirs with Christ, and because of that birthright, we can fight with confidence for ourselves and on behalf of the vulnerable children we love. Isaiah challenges us in the first chapter of his book, “Learn to do right! Seek justice, encourage the oppressed. Defend the cause of the fatherless, plead the case of the widow.” As we learn, seek, encourage, defend, and plead the case of the orphan, let’s stay connected to each other, and to the Lord, remembering who we are fighting against and how to do it effectively. Let’s fill up and then pour out, expecting an opposition, yet ready to celebrate the victory.
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ROSE GUERLINE Rose Guerline hopes to become a nurse. "I am proud to be one of the first Hope Students. I know this will offer me opportunities I wouldn’t otherwise have."
Meet Rose Guerline and Diackenson, the first Back2Back Hope Students in Haiti
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PORT-AU-PRINCE, HAITI
DIACKENSON Diackenson hopes to become an accountant.
“Being a Hope Student means I have opportunities before me, and I have people I can trust to help me along the way. I am excited for what is to come, and I know I will accomplish my goals.�
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Children learning to ride a bike for the first time start out with training wheels so they won’t lose their balance. However, once the training wheels are removed a trusted adult remains close behind, guiding the child along to prevent their fall. Eventually, the child pedals alone and risks falling—but if they do wobble, they know how to handle it because of the safe adult who taught them. Just as children across the world over learn to ride bikes in this way, similarly, children need adults behind them to navigate school and guide them as they plan for their future. For orphaned and vulnerable children in Haiti, Back2Back has had their hand on the back of their bikes since 2013. Together, we are watching them learn new skills and believe in all they are capable of. Children like Rose Guerline and Diackenson have grown up in a Back2Back-partner children’s home, Jesus Name. In their time there, they’ve learned
independence and accountability, carefully considered their futures, and have grown socially. They have grown and changed with the ever-present support of Back2Back staff, caregivers, mission guests, and sponsors. Now they are ready for their next steps as they become the inaugural students in Back2Back Haiti’s new Hope Education Program.
This past August, Rose Guerline and Diackenson moved from Jesus Name into homes in nearby communities with their Hope Parents. “Having the children stay in homes in the community is very intentional as we planned what the Hope Program would look like here in Haiti,” shared Matt Ellis, Back2Back Haiti Director. Community integration allows the teens to experience being part of a larger community and fosters the building of healthy relationship as neighbors in the community. The teens will continue their studies and prepare for life after their studies are complete.
the vision is they will have the skills to find a job, or continue on with more education, and sustainably live on their own.” Rose Guerline and Diackenson are grateful to be the first two students in the Hope Program. “Being a Hope Student means I have opportunities before me, and I have people I can trust to help me along the way,” shared Diackenson. He hopes to become an accountant and doesn’t feel nervous about this new chapter in his life. “I am excited for what is to come, and I know I will accomplish my goals.” “I am proud to be one of the first Hope Students,” shared Rose Guerline. “I know this will offer me opportunities I wouldn’t otherwise have.” She hopes to become a nurse and is both excited and nervous about becoming a new family member in her new home.
As preparations to living with a family gained momentum, each teen made connections almost instantly with their individual house parents. Rose Guerline called her Hope Parents every Sunday before moving in, sharing about her week and what she was learning. Diackenson shared, “When we connect, it is always joy.”
At the end of their two years, the vision is the students will have the skills to find a job, or continue on with more education, and sustainably live on their own.
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PORT-AU-PRINCE, HAITI
“Our deepest hope is Rose Guerline will feel a part of our family, not an outside member who is part of a program,” shared Clarens, her Hope Father. “We want her integration into our home and family to be smooth, and we look forward to supporting her and helping her learn necessary life skills to be a successful adult.” Life skills training will be an integral part of the Hope Program experience in Haiti. From food management and nutrition to budgeting and spiritual engagement, one of the main focuses for the teens is preparation for everyday life “We want to make sure Diackenson and Rose Guerline have the confidence to care for themselves. At the end of their two years,
ESAIE JEAN LOUIS Jesus Name Children's Home Director Jesus Name Children’s Home Director, Esaie Jean Louis, has raised Diackson and Rose Guerline and has been an invaluable part in their growth and preparation for this moment. He told them, at a recent celebration, “You may be leaving Jesus Name, but you will always be a part of Jesus Name. No matter where you go, you are welcome here always.” As this new program in Haiti kicks off, Back2Back staff look forward to each teen reaching for their future. It is with joy we share this news and ask for prayer as Diackenson and Rose Guerline take bold steps forward. The training wheels are off, and with guiding hands, they ride into the future.
ROSE GUERLINE and her Hope Program Family “Our deepest hope is Rose Guerline will feel a part of our family, not an outside member who is part of a program. We want her integration into our home and family to be smooth, and we look forward to supporting her and helping her learn necessary life skills to be a successful adult.�
DIACKENSON and his Hope Program Family
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CANCUN, MEXICO
The planks of wood sat stacked one on top of the other. Each table held several stacks, waiting for the fathers and their children to arrive. Sets of tools – hammers, nails, and sand paper waited alongside the stacks.
To some, they were simply piles of wood and tools, but to dads and their children, they were a connection, a teaching opportunity, an experience in putting pieces together to build something.
To some, they were simply piles of wood and tools, but to dads and their children, they were a connection, a teaching opportunity, an experience in putting pieces together to build something.
Darlene Ruiz, Back2Back Cancun staff, has long dreamt of bringing fathers from the Bonfil and Tres Reyes communities together for stronger connection and involvement with their children. “Both moms and dads are invited to parenting classes,” explained Darlene. “The dads typically work during the day, so the moms show up, and it’s been that way from the beginning.” Still, her heart was to help facilitate deeper community for the fathers. In 2018, Back2Back staff Jenn Holden and Becca Arguello decided it was time to celebrate Father’s Day with the dads, like they celebrated Mother’s Day with the moms. “We talked with the coordinators and put an event together,” said Jenn.The event was successful and incredibly encouraging to all who attended, so we looked to 2019 and the ways we could foster more moments like this. Together, the Cancun team strategically planned to seek out opportunity to earn trust and create space for fathers to connect – with staff, each other, and their children, in 2019. It’s been a long held dream, and now God is providing the people and the moments to make it happen. ---------------
She held the sandpaper in her hand and ran it against the grain of the wood. Her look of concentration turned to inquisition as she looked up at her father, standing next to her. He read the question in her eyes and smiled, “You are doing great! Keep going.” Dads from two different communities and their children were gathered under the palapa at the Community Center in Tres Reyes. As part of the initiative to create opportunities for dads to connect with their children, they were building wooden boxes together. “It was more than just time for dads and their children to connect,” shared Jenn. “We were unable to have a set of tools at every station, but it ended up allowing the dads to connect with and help each other.” It does not take a fancy banquet or an expensive night out for connections to be forged – just planks of wood, the tools to build something, and shared knowledge. Three intentional events took place this year for the dads of Bonfil and Tres Reyes and their children. On the surface, they were field trips and creative workshop, but the moments witnessed and conversations held, ran much deeper. Fathers stepped into teaching roles – instructing their children on how to sand a piece of wood and build a box. They bragged about their kids – one father was overheard sharing that his children were hard workers and kept good company with their peers. They were given moments to be proud and share that pride with their children.
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Hope Children's Home, Hyderabad, India
For most children around the world between the ages of eight and twelve, many “firsts” have been experienced.They’ve had their first days of school, first tastes of ice cream, first restaurant experience, and they know the joy of receiving new clothing or visiting a water park for the first time. In India, more than 50 million young women will neither work professionally nor study, and less than half of India’s children between the ages of six and fourteen will go to school. While most young girls around
the world know the feel of a brand new dress and the fun of picking out back-to-school shoes, the typical experience of a fatherless child raised in a tribe looks different. A nomadic lifestyle means education is not only difficult, it’s nearly impossible. Their education is taught on the land they hunt, gather, and barter, not in a classroom, making mainstream integration later in life difficult. Young girls are especially at risk without educational opportunities, potentially enslaved or married off to men significantly their senior.
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HYDERABAD, INDIA
For eight young girls who now call Hope Children’s Home, home, this is not their story. Their lives are now different. (And we are just getting started.)
Back2Back Ministries partnered with Hope Children’s Home, an all-girls home, in 2017. All of the children come from a nomadic tribe living in a remote village, and are in India’s lowest caste.Traditional education wasn’t an option.There are still 31 million girls of primary school age out of school. Of these, 17 million are expected never to enter school. Before coming to Hope Children’s Home, the girls learned from their families and did what they could to help out.They now attend St. Mary’s, a local English-medium school.Their first classroom experiences shed light on their deficits, but each girl is holding her own, picking up the English language, and performing well in the school – after tutoring during their summer holiday, the girls jumped ahead a class due to their improvement. The girls are educationally advancing for the first time in their lives, and they’re also growing socially and emotionally.
They recently experienced dining in a local restaurant for the first time. Navigating and ordering from menus, using silverware to eat their food, and having quiet conversation with those seated next to them were just a few highlights.
As they each grow, learning about their roles as daughters of God, they will break barriers, rise above statistics, and leave their mark on the world.
Ice cream trips, their first visit to the zoo and a water park have helped each of the girls experience fun in new ways.They’re also receiving love and intentional care through their first visits to the doctor and the dentist. “The girls hadn’t received physicals or had their teeth cleaned,” shared Dan Belue, Back2Back staff. These first time experiences brought on nerves, as the girls weren’t sure what to expect. After receiving clean bills of health and/or necessary referrals for ongoing treatment, each girl realized they were being treated by safe adults who prioritize their well-being.
Earlier this summer, the girls attended Vacation Bible School at the India Hope Campus with the other children on campus. Their threenight stay allowed for connection with their peers and caregivers. “The children on campus had so much fun with the girls, and even the caregivers were touched by how kind and sincere each of them was,” explained Dan. On the last afternoon, as the children were all saying goodbye and wishing each other well, Divya, one of the younger girls from Hope Children’s Home, asked to pray for everyone. “It was a powerful time of prayer, and it was a sweet time in Jesus’ presence,” shared Dan.
The girls may have experienced many things later in life, but this is not a hindrance to their joy, or the adventure they enjoy now. As they each grow, learning about their roles as daughters of God, they will break barriers, rise above statistics, and leave their mark on the world. 12
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JOS, NIGERIA
Giant, black rocks create a wall of protection around the property of Igmin Kibe Education Center. It is equal parts identifier of the Kisayip Village and jungle gym for the children who live nearby. A winding, dusty road lies between this wall of natural stone and the village many call home. One can follow it to reach the Ed Center, but it also leads somewhere else just as special.
“Regardless if the employees stay with us long term or not, they are learning proper skills and practices, which will carry them through their work career,” said Clay. Stable employment opportunities like those offered at the farm also means parents are able to care and provide basic needs for their families. “The children have a caregiver who is providing for them, creating a healthier bond and respect, and the family has a skilled adult modeling the benefits of hard work,” explained Clay.
The smell might hit first. Then the sounds – highpitched squeals and soft warbles rise with intensity the closer one gets to the structures. The sounds and smells are a result of a business venture between Back2Back and When we do Self-Sustaining Enterprises. Solomon, something, it the manager over the business, walks needs four things out and welcomes visitors to the to be successful: Back2Back farm – home to about the right time, 1700 chickens and over a dozen pigs.
right people, right
The most successful aspect of the farm to date is the chickens. “Our chickens are currently sold to a lot of local businesses,” explained Jason. “Restaurants, a few fast food spots, and butchers are the largest buyers of the farm’s products.We have been able to meet the demands of their businesses every time, so it’s allowed our farmers to be on top of the market.”
The idea for a business was simple plan, and right – offer job opportunities and resources. financial security to families nearby. “We considered some sort of shop, Looking to the future, Self-Sustaining Enterprises fish farming, and chickens on a smaller scale,” and Back2Back plan to grow their current explained Jason Munafo, Back2Back Nigeria Site business while also beginning to farm acha, a grain Director. that grows well in Nigeria and is in high demand. “Nigeria is a great place to live, but can be Staff also hopes the farm will one day fully fund extremely difficult in terms of economics and advanced educational opportunities for children work,” shared Clay McCormick, Back2Back Staff. in the village with the earnings from the work “Jobs aren’t only difficult to find, but they also being done. Ultimately, the goal is that families in don’t always pay a livable wage.” Clay, along with the village will no longer need the assistance of the rest of the staff, wants to provide a solution Back2Back or Self-Sustaining Enterprises, because through the farm initiative. they alone are changing the paths for their Crop farming came first. “The nationals we children. serve alongside are already farming,” explained Ten staff, 1700 chickens, and seven grown pigs Jason. “We didn’t want or need to reinvent the and numerous piglets make up what is quickly wheel but wanted to help make improvements, if becoming a well-oiled machine in producing we could.” Crops provided a level of work and quality goods to local restaurants and butchers. income, but adding chickens and pigs changed the It all started with one thing in mind – providing equation dramatically. opportunity. It is with this vision we look Members from the village nearby weren’t hired expectantly for what’s to come. simply to fill jobs, they were hired for the job. Currently, the farm employs ten full-time staff and will expand to hire three to five more. Check out this video “When we do something, it needs four things to with Jason and Solomon be successful: the right time, right people, right sharing about the farming plan, and right resources,” shared Jason. “The last initative in Nigeria. three years have been a culmination of those four back2back.org/ components coming together and allowing for DownOnTheFarm success.”
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Each and every one of the 163,000,000 orphans in our world today has a name, a dream, and a future. But, without someone who believes in them and works tirelessly on their behalf, almost all will become adults who are completely unprepared for the demands awaiting them. The cycle of children's homes and oppressive poverty will be repeated in their own lives. Back2Back offers solutions. Holistic care that looks different depending on where we serve. Cultural differences, local needs, access to resources, and government infrastructure all play a part in deciding what strategy is required to serve people well. No matter the place, we’re committed to providing solutions that work.
Partnering with
18 Children’s Homes providing
5 areas of holistic care.
104 students currently in the Hope Program
pursuing postsecondary education.
251 students
since 2002 have changed the trajectory of their stories forever.
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98 families in the
Strong Families Program. 216 children
remaining with their families, being mentored by staff, impacting the communities where they live.
62 Mexican children in foster care. 6 new states in Mexico partnering
with Back2Back have begun the process of being trained to implement foster care.
112 mission teams served at Back2Back sites this year.
1755 people
investing in children and returning home motivated to invest in their own families and communities, as well.
Since 2016, Back2Back's Trauma Competent Care Training offered around the world to
2600 caregivers from 68 countries impacting over
250,000 children.
And, we're just getting started.
We won't stop until every child is known and loved. 16
How 3 principles are working at Back2Back Cincinnati to bring people together
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CINCINNATI, OHIO, USA
Better together The street corner, a catchall for unwanted soda cans, glass bottles, and abandoned chip bags is alive with laughter, buzzing with anticipation as the after school center door opened. It was summer, which meant no school, but 12 girls, from seven to fourteen years of age, rushed into the center for the reading program. The girls looked forward to reading books with safe adults. They found so much joy in reading, they spent their summer break devouring 89 books, total.Together they read, played games, and ate healthy snacks over their summer break. As celebration of their academic growth and hard work, they ended the program with an ice cream party. Calvary Industries acknowledged the hard work of these teens and sent an ice cream truck to their neighborhood gathering. This celebration, honoring the hard work of teen girls and safe adults, reminded everyone we are better together.
New experiences expand our dreams A young
man named Anthony accompanied Back2Back Cincinnati Director, Chris Cox, to the Cincinnati Reds Corporate Office to pick up a special donation of baseballs and gloves. Anthony and Chris were walking out of the office when Karen Forgus, Senior Vice President of Business Operations, stopped them. She looked at Anthony, “We see you.You are the exactly the type of young man we want around the Reds organization.” Anthony nodded silently, a giant grin on his face. After loading the gear in the car, Anthony looked at Chris, a safe adult he trusted, “Do you really think she meant that? Could I work there someday?” It was on this afternoon, Anthony grew a fondness for baseball and a vision for his future.
God creates safe spaces Camps are generally a
place where teens go to worship, learn, and experience the story of God. For someone with developmental trauma, the disorienting elements of camp can often overwhelm emotions, causing bodies to cope in unsafe ways. A group of students traveled cautiously to camp for the first time this summer, but they didn’t know God was creating a safe space for them. On their first night, the music was too loud and the message was too disorienting for the girls to focus. When they shared these experiences with Stephanie, one of their leaders, she offered them ear plugs for the next night and gum and lollipops during the message. The girls were amazed how different their second night was, and by the end of the week, they were fully engaged. As they reflected on what changed, they agreed unanimously – “It was Stephanie’s bag. She had everything we needed, so we could connect with God.” Safe adults create safe spaces.
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All around the world, children learn right from wrong, how to voice their needs, and numerous other lessons in the same place – with their families. Children are empowered to make decisions for themselves, knowing if it isn’t right, there are safe adults nearby to handle any fall-out. Boys and girls learn how to treat their peers, their elders, and themselves from the examples set before them by their parents. But what about the millions of displaced and vulnerable children who may not have a safe space with family? Salvation Army, a Back2Back-partner children’s home, is taking a faith-filled step in the direction of addressing this question and responding to it. “Over the last four years, we’ve worked diligently with Back2Back in caring for and helping children,” shared Adriana Centeno, Salvation Army Co-Director. “We realized, as we prayed, the root of the hurts and misbehaviors often began with family. In light of this, we wanted to start working alongside families, not just with the children we served directly.” Adriana and her husband Isaac, Co-Directors of Salvation Army Children’s Home, prayed while each child was in their care at the home, the family would
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MAZATLAN, MEXICO
also become healthier in the process. “It can’t be just about helping the child while they’re in our care, but transforming the situation they would ultimately return to, so they don’t make progress individually, only to decline in a less healthy environment,” shared Isaac. Adriana and Isaac’s passion for the children and families they serve is evident the very minute they start sharing about the partnership between the home and Back2Back. “Children are not things, objects, numbers, statistics, or a case file,” said Isaac. “They are a person, a soul, they have value and character, and they need to be poured in to, to learn, to grow – they need opportunities and healthy environments.” It is with this in mind that Salvation Army and Back2Back are taking a step together to ensure healthy environments in which each child can grow, by implementing family-style living at the home. “For four years, Adriana and I have been open to all options, all learning opportunities, and receiving training from Back2Back on best practices in caring for the children,” shared Isaac.
“Ultimately, our goal is to fight, fight, fight to the end, so each child can come to know Jesus as their Savior and be healthy independent adults with their own families.” Family-style care begins, first, in the homes. No more than eight children will be cared for and looked after by two safe, equipped adults who are married. In these family units, the children’s physical needs will be met with safe housing, beds of their own, clothes that fit, and hot meals they enjoy, like family, at a kitchen table each night. The children will grow and thrive through new living arrangements with safe adults, regular meetings with a Christian psychologist, and through involvement in extracurricular activities. These experiences help each boy and girl understand their talents and gifts, empower them to voice their needs, and show them they can accomplish anything they put their mind to.
are hopeful for the positive changes and growth to come from this transition to family-style care. Every child knows, as they step out for school or a new activity, they have an army of people behind them who know their needs, pray for their success, and who’ll be there if ever there is a misstep.
We are prayerful this family-style model will one day be adapted by all Salvation Army Children’s Homes globally, but today we are confident it will positively impact the children of Mazatlán. Together, we will fight to break generational trauma and ensure each child remembers they are known and loved.
Back2Back and Salvation Army Children’s Home
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At the end of this day nine students experienced an adventure very few others will. This day was a day of defining moments for each one.
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MONTERREY, MEXICO
There is something that happens in our body and our brain when we engage in activities that are new to us; that challenge us. Our heart beats quicker, our palms get sweaty, our breathing changes, and we feel the thrill of adventure as we engage in the unfamiliar. What seemed impossible gets accomplished. We begin to wonder - what else can I do? When you think of Mexico, you may not think of outdoor adventure. But in the middle of the Santiago Mountains, near Monterrey, is a spot where courageous thrill-seekers gather before dawn. Each determined to endure a day-long eco-adventure through the world-renowned canyon of Matacanes. This kind of challenge, known as canyoneering, demands techniques like hiking, scrambling, sliding, jumping, and rappelling through caves, in rivers, and along sheer rock-faces. It is not for the faint of heart. What better place, then, for 9 adventure-seeking young men in Back2Back's Hope Program to test their mettle and build the bonds of brotherhood. Up before dawn, the group endures a long breath-stealing drive up the steep mountain’s edge, where afterward they slip into wet suits and strap on helmets ready to begin their adventure. After a 90-minute hike to the canyon’s mouth, they encounter their first challenge - a 90-foot rappel beside a roaring waterfall. One by one, each disappears over the edge, some deciding not to look down to the small pool at the base. The caves, rock slides, and cliff jumps that follow - 40 jumps in all - become easier as the cool of the morning gives way to the warmth of the sun, and the group’s guide and this band of brothers cheer one another on - lending a hand and pushing each other for nearly 10 hours until the trip to the canyon’s base finally ends. These are the days, these are the experiences, that are not easily forgotten. At the end of this day 9 students experienced an adventure very few others will. This day was a day of defining moments for each one. This day created new ways of thinking. What was once, "I can’t” became "I'll try." What was once, “I am on my own” became “There are people I can trust to help me.” What was once, “Do I have what it takes?” became “I can do this!” That...is a really good day.
Check out this video from a day of canyoneering to find out why this was a day 9 Hope Program students will not soon forget:
back2back.org/matacanes
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DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
Ariel, House of Hope Director, Dominican Republic
Did you know that good hydration contributes to better memory, heightened cognitive skills, and even a reduction in aggression? Ariel, at House of Hope, learned about the importance of hydration for children at a Trauma Competent Care (TCC) training in Santiago, Dominican Republic taught by Back2Back staff. Ariel and his family moved from Guatemala to the Dominican Republic five years ago to serve the children of the DR through House of Hope. An American organization, House of Hope provides supplemental education to children in one of the poorest communities in Santiago. As Director of House of Hope,Ariel took to heart what he learned during the trauma training, taught his teachers and staff, and took small steps at his school to become more trauma competent. One of the small steps Ariel took was to provide water and food every two hours for the one hundred children who attend his education program. One year after the training, Ariel told Back2Back staff he was seeing increased attention spans and less behavioral problems in his students. He attributed this change to the small step he’d taken to empower his students’ bodies with water and nutrition. Ariel is excited to continue helping his students heal through trauma competency practices. Back2Back will continue to work with him and his staff this fall to further implement Trauma Competent Care. We are excited every time we see someone open to learning about trauma care practices in the Dominican Republic, and even more excited when they begin putting those practices to use. There are many simple things individuals can do daily to reduce fear in children, empower their bodies and minds, and set them up for success. As Ariel found, even a glass of water can make all the difference in the life of a child.
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Lincoln Heights Missionary Baptist Church, Cincinnati, Ohio
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on mission, firsthand Rob Robinson stood beneath the palapa at the Community Center of Tres Reyes and took in everything around him. Colorful walls, a pristine soccer field, and a flood of children walking through the gates of the center with their moms, were his view for the day. He looked at Steve McCollum, Back2Back staff, and said, “I’m impressed, I want to support this ministry.”
Jos, Nigeria
It was Rob’s first trip with Back2Back; he had been invited by Back2Back advocate, and personal friend, David Eltringham. On this trip, he learned about Back2Back’s work in Nigeria. His church, Lincoln Heights Missionary Baptist Church, desired to invest in Africa. He decided to bring a team from his church, so members could understand the mission, firsthand. While each person raised some of their own funds, the entire church pitched in to fundraise the rest of it. “We wanted to raise enough to bless people while we were there,” explained Rob.
Ultimately, the entire congregation, and friends, of Lincoln Heights Missionary Baptist Church, contributed to the mission trip. Eighteen people journeyed to Jos, Nigeria and provided renovation at Destiny, Children’s Home to over 50 children. In addition to physical updates, were the moments of relationship building each member of the team offered to the children, parents, and staff in Nigeria. From a staff appreciation dinner, communal worship and communion, to five children receiving new sponsors – this is the power of investment, time, and connection. Together, children and adults are being cared for and there is work towards increased sustainability. Lincoln Heights Missionary Baptist Church made significant differences for the people of Nigeria, and the ripple effects of these moments will be long remembered. As they follow the call to serve internationally, they’re looking forward to another trip in September, 2020, where they trust, without question, lives will be changed and hearts will be strengthened as we each become the difference for one.
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You can experience the joy of sponsorship and make a powerful difference for one. Learn more at back2back.org/sponsor
So we asked...
What was the most meaningful part of your mission trip?
A memory that will forever stay with me was the joy on Xochil’s face as she painted all of our nails. I wish that nail polish could’ve stayed on forever! -McKenna
“I loved talking one on one with the kids, and seeing them enjoy themselves at Kidzania.” -Daniel “The most memorable moment was when my sponser child got on the bus to go to church with us. I saw her for the first time in a year. She was wearing the dress I sent her for her birthday.” -Tammy "It was when I was working with the kids, Santiago climbed on my back and I gave him a piggyback ride.” -Eddy
“The most memorable part of my mission trip was the prayer walk. It was a different experience, but very memorable and impactful.” -Crystal
“I have been on multiple mission trips over the years, and the most memorable parts are always when I see God show up in unique and personal ways!” -Lisa
“I felt God leading during the worship night towards something. Not sure what that step is, but I am just trusting Him and praying that He will guide my next steps!” -Haley
“I really valued spending time just playing with the children and debriefing time with the group at the end of the day.” -Allison
“I loved getting to spend time with Victor and Carlitos helping me push wheelbarrows full of rocks.” -Rachel “The most memorable part of my mission trip was working with the local people in Nigeria & their beautiful spirits.” -Rebecca
“It was so special to watch my teenager interact with the kids in the orphanage.” -Paula “I loved making memories with my husband!” -Shannen
The most memorable part of my trip was seeing so many work together as a team for such a great cause. It is such an honor to be a part of it. -Allen
“The most memorable part of my trip was feeling like I belonged with a group I had not met before.” -McKenna “The most memorable part of my trip was putting duct work in Bethany orphanage in Monterrey.” -Dwight “A highlight for me was witnessing the youth group kids being vulnerable with each other during debriefing each night.” -Camille “I really enjoyed spending time with our sponsor child and worshipping in Spanish with him.” -Samuel “A favorite part of my mission trip was doing construction work.” -Matthew
“I felt the most impactful part of the trip was learning Trauma Competent Care. It allowed me to bring home valuable tools for life here in the U.S.” -Dana “One of the most memorable parts of my trip was when we went into one of the homes of the families in Back2Back’s Strong Families Program.” -John “A highlight for me was being educated on how trauma affects the kids and what is being done to help them heal and develop.” -Daniel “The most memorable part of my trip was the Father’s Day program that my team was able to plan and execute.” -Ben
Did you know there are eight Back2Back sites around the world where you can serve on a mission trip? Check out the various locations and start planning your trip today. back2back.org/go
“It makes me so happy to see the kids (younger and older) make the crafts we planned for them and really enjoy doing that.” -Barbara
I am realizing that the kids impact upon my life could be even greater than all I was able to accomplish for them in one week. That is a gift. -David
Since 1997
30,000 mission guests have traveled to Back2Back sites around the world.
Start planning your trip today at back2back.org/go
P.O. Box 70 Mason, OH 45040