When New Goals Need Deeper Meaning

Finding Purpose Beyond Resolutions

Each January, millions of people make resolutions that often fade by February. But what if this year could be different? What if instead of focusing solely on personal improvement, you set goals that change lives – not just your own?

Many of us feel a pull toward something more meaningful. We want our faith to take action, to make a real difference in the world. This yearning for purpose isn’t just a feeling – it’s a calling that deserves attention.

Faith-Based Goals vs. Personal Resolutions

Service as Spiritual Growth

While there’s nothing wrong with wanting to improve yourself, faith-based goals offer something deeper. Instead of just tracking steps or saving dollars, you can count smiles, hugs, and moments of hope you bring to children who need them most.

When you volunteer in Colombia with a faith-based nonprofit, you’re not just checking a box – you’re living your faith in tangible ways. This kind of service becomes spiritual formation, shaping your heart as you serve others.

Why Mission Trips Are a Powerful Way to Start the Year

Setting a Tone of Giving

A new year mission trip sets a powerful tone for your entire year. It helps reset priorities and puts into action what often remains just good intentions. By stepping out of your comfort zone to help children in Colombia, you create momentum that carries through the months ahead.

The beauty of mission work isn’t in what you accomplish in a week or two – it’s in how it changes your perspective for the other 50 weeks of the year. Your presence matters to the children you serve, and their presence in your life will matter to you long after you return home.

Serving Children in Colombia: A Goal with Eternal Impact

Making a Lasting Difference

When you focus on serving children in Colombia, you invest in something with lasting value. These children need stability, love, and hope – things that can’t be wrapped and put under a tree, but that make all the difference in their lives.

Even short-term volunteers support important long-term work. Each person who comes to serve adds to the consistent care these children receive. Your time there matters because you become part of their story of healing and growth.

How The Emiliani Project Helps Turn Calling into Action

Joining a Mission with Heart

The Emiliani Project is a faith-based nonprofit grounded in a deep, abiding faith in Jesus Christ. We believe that following Jesus means loving sacrificially, serving the vulnerable, and caring for “the least of these” with compassion and humility. Founded by veterans and inspired by Saint Jerome Emiliani (the patron saint of orphaned children), The Emiliani Project exists to put faith into action by providing long-term care, stability, and hope to children who need it most.

When you volunteer through The Emiliani Project, you join a community of people who share your values and your desire to serve. You’ll find structure, support, and meaningful ways to help that align with your faith and skills.

Is This the Year You Say Yes?

Taking the First Step

If you’ve been feeling that tug on your heart to do something meaningful this year, perhaps this is your moment. Serving children in Colombia could be the most important goal you set this year.

Don’t worry about having all the answers or skills – just bring your willingness to serve. The children don’t need perfection; they need presence and care.

Ready to make this new year truly new? Consider joining a mission trip to Colombia. Your life will never be the same – and neither will theirs.

Visit our volunteer page to learn about upcoming opportunities to serve. This could be the year everything changes!

A City Renewing Step by Step in Medellín, Colombia

Walking through Medellín today often feels like stepping into a city in motion. While challenges remain, many areas reflect a transformation that few could have imagined decades ago.

Medellín’s Remarkable Transformation and Community Renewal

The Medellín of today bears little resemblance to its past reputation alone. In many neighborhoods, streets once avoided now host bustling markets, community art, and public gathering spaces. Families gather in parks that were once empty. Children play in areas reclaimed through local effort and persistence.

This progress did not happen overnight or through outside influence alone. Much of Medellín’s renewal has grown from within, led by residents who refused to accept violence and instability as permanent realities. Over time, local leadership, education initiatives, and community investment helped reshape daily life.

Medellín’s progress has also gained international recognition for its emphasis on community-led development, education, and public infrastructure. While the work continues, the city’s experience offers a powerful example of what long-term commitment can accomplish.

Faith, Community, and Hope

Faith communities have played a meaningful role in Medellín’s renewal, particularly at the neighborhood level. Churches and faith-based organizations often became places of refuge, support, and practical assistance during the city’s most difficult years.

Beyond spiritual care, these communities helped meet everyday needs, offering food, education support, and safe spaces for children and families. Over time, these small acts of faith and service contributed to deeper trust and stronger neighborhoods.

Visitors frequently notice the warmth of Medellín’s people. Despite the city’s complex history, hospitality remains a defining trait. Many who come to serve leave with a deeper appreciation for resilience shaped by faith, perseverance, and community.

Opportunities to Serve and Volunteer in Medellín, Colombia

Medellín’s journey creates meaningful opportunities for visitors who want to serve while learning from the local community.

Medellín Volunteer Opportunities for Faith-Based Service

If you feel called to serve, you can learn more about current volunteer opportunities and upcoming mission trips here: https://emilianiproject.org/volunteer/

Those looking to volunteer in Medellín often find opportunities centered around relationships and presence. Volunteers may assist with: – Educational and mentoring activities – Community improvement or maintenance projects – Recreational and creative programs for children – Faith-based outreach and community engagement

No special background is required for many roles, what matters most is a willingness to serve with humility and care. Volunteers frequently describe their experience as mutually transformative, gaining perspective while offering time and attention.

Helping Children in Medellín Through Community Care

Children in Medellín face ongoing challenges tied to poverty, instability, and limited access to consistent support. Community-based programs play a vital role in providing structure, encouragement, and hope.

Simple acts, reading together, helping with schoolwork, and organizing games, can have lasting impact. For many children, consistent attention and care make a profound difference, reinforcing their sense of worth and possibility.

The Emiliani Project’s Role as a Faith-Based Nonprofit for Children

The Emiliani Project takes its name and inspiration from Saint Jerome Emiliani, the patron saint of orphaned and abandoned children. His life of faith, service, and sacrifice continues to guide the organization’s mission today.

Learn more about the story of Saint Jerome Emiliani and how his legacy shapes The Emiliani Project’s work: https://emilianiproject.org/about/saint-jerome-emiliani/

Among organizations serving vulnerable children, The Emiliani Project focuses on long-term relationships and collaboration with local leaders. Rather than imposing outside solutions, the organization seeks to support existing strengths within the community.

Faith serves as a foundation for this work without becoming a barrier. While rooted in Christian values, The Emiliani Project serves children with dignity and care regardless of background. This approach fosters trust and unity around a shared commitment to child well-being.

Children connected with The Emiliani Project receive more than basic support, they gain stability, encouragement, and the confidence to imagine a brighter future. Over time, consistent presence helps children grow academically, emotionally, and spiritually.

Sidebar: Medellín, A City Still Healing

Medellín’s renewal is real, but it is not complete.

Like many cities shaped by conflict and inequality, progress has been uneven. Some neighborhoods continue to face poverty and instability, and many families still need support. Acknowledging these realities honors the lived experience of local communities and reinforces why sustained service matters.

Renewal in Medellín is best understood not as a finished story, but as an ongoing journey, one strengthened by faith, community partnership, and long-term commitment.

Become Part of Medellín’s Ongoing Story of Renewal

Medellín’s journey reminds us that lasting change is built through countless small acts of faith and service. When you help children in Medellín through volunteer opportunities with The Emiliani Project, you take part in that ongoing work. You can also explore how child sponsorship supports long-term care and stability: https://emilianiproject.org/transform-a-childs-future-sponsor-today/

The city’s story continues to unfold, carried forward by communities committed to hope, dignity, and love for the next generation.

Every great mission begins with a calling. For The Emiliani Project, that calling is rooted in the example of Saint Jerome Emiliani—the patron saint of orphaned and abandoned children. His life of compassion and courage continues to inspire the organization’s mission: to help children in Colombia experience the love, education, and stability they deserve.

What makes The Emiliani Project truly special isn’t only what it does, but who does it. Behind every act of kindness and every transformed life stands a small team of volunteers who live their faith through service. Their belief in God’s providence guides every decision, trip, and prayer.

The Emiliani Project Team: Faithful Leadership in Motion

Each member of The Emiliani Project serves as a volunteer, giving time and talent to build something bigger than themselves. Together, they demonstrate how ordinary people can achieve extraordinary things when faith leads the way.

Charles Navarrete – President
Charles provides spiritual and organizational leadership with a servant’s heart. His steady vision keeps the mission focused on empowering communities and ensuring that every child served feels God’s love in action.

Matthew Monroe – Vice President
Matthew helps connect volunteers, donors, and partners, strengthening the network that sustains the organization’s work in Colombia. His faith motivates him to build bridges between people and possibilities, reminding others that love is the foundation of lasting change.

Cristina Ramirez – Director of Fundación Emiliani
Working daily in Medellín, Cristina manages operations and outreach efforts that directly impact children’s lives. Her deep faith shapes her care for each child—offering guidance, education, and hope rooted in Christian compassion.

Bryan Hunter – Board Member
Bryan supports the long-term direction and governance of the project, ensuring its integrity and sustainability. His business insight, guided by faith, helps The Emiliani Project remain transparent and mission-focused while expanding its reach to help more children in Colombia.

Though their roles differ, their motivation is shared: to serve God through service to others. They embody the works of Saint Jerome Emiliani himself and his dedication to caring and protecting the most vulnerable.

Faith Meets Action: Volunteer in Colombia

Faith is never meant to stay still. It moves hearts, crosses borders, and builds bridges of compassion. One of the most meaningful ways to experience that movement is by joining an Emiliani Project mission trip to Medellín, Colombia.

Volunteers have the opportunity to:

• Spend time with children in loving, faith-filled environments
• Participate in construction or maintenance projects that improve living conditions
• Join educational and recreational activities
• Share in worship, prayer, and community outreach

Each mission trip blends hands-on service with spiritual renewal. Volunteers not only help children in Colombia, but also return home transformed—renewed in faith and grateful for what God can do through willing hearts.

Explore upcoming mission trips and learn how you can volunteer in Colombia.

Your Faith Can Change a Child’s Future

Whether through travel, giving, or prayer, you can play a vital role in this mission.
Every sponsorship, every donation, every act of kindness helps a child step into a safer, brighter tomorrow.

When you partner with The Emiliani Project, you join a community that believes the Gospel is best preached through love in action. Together, we can give children in Colombia not just resources—but hope.

“When we serve, we see God’s face in the people we help. And when we help children, we touch the heart of God.”

Meet the full team and learn more about how faith continues to guide The Emiliani Project’s work.

Embarking on a volunteer journey in Medellín can be an exciting and rewarding experience. This section will guide you through the initial steps of finding opportunities, preparing for your trip, and immersing yourself in the local culture.

Finding Opportunities in Medellín

Medellín offers a diverse range of volunteer opportunities for travelers looking to make a difference. From working with children to environmental conservation, there’s something for everyone.

Start by researching reputable organizations that align with your interests and skills. Many local NGOs and international volunteer programs have a presence in the city.

Consider joining online communities like the Volunteer Medellín Facebook group to connect with fellow volunteers and get firsthand information about current projects and needs.

Remember to verify the legitimacy of any organization you’re considering and ensure their values align with your own before committing to a project.

Preparing for Your Trip

Planning your volunteer trip to Medellín requires careful consideration and preparation. Begin by checking visa requirements and ensuring your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay.

Research the specific needs of your chosen volunteer project and pack accordingly. Don’t forget essentials like comfortable clothing, sturdy shoes, and any specialized items you might need for your work.

Consider taking Spanish lessons before your trip, as many locals may not speak English. Even basic language skills can greatly enhance your experience and ability to connect with the community.

Lastly, make sure you have appropriate travel insurance that covers volunteer activities. Your health and safety should always be a top priority.

Cultural Immersion Tips

Immersing yourself in Medellín’s culture will enrich your volunteer experience and help you build meaningful connections with locals. Start by learning about the city’s history and customs to show respect for the community you’ll be serving.

Try local foods and participate in cultural events to gain a deeper understanding of Paisa culture. The Medellín Travel Guide offers great insights into local attractions and customs.

Be open-minded and patient, especially when faced with cultural differences. Remember that you’re there to learn as much as you are to help.

Engage with your host family or local colleagues outside of volunteer hours. This can provide valuable insights into daily life in Medellín and help you form lasting friendships.

Making an Impact

Volunteering in Medellín goes beyond personal growth; it’s about creating positive change in the community. This section explores how volunteers can make a real difference, particularly in the lives of children, and highlights the important work of organizations like The Emiliani Project.

How Volunteers Help Children

Volunteers play a crucial role in supporting children in Medellín, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds. By offering their time and skills, volunteers can provide educational support, emotional care, and new opportunities for growth.

Many projects focus on tutoring and after-school programs, helping children improve their academic performance and develop essential life skills. This support can be transformative, opening doors to better educational and career prospects.

Volunteers also contribute to children’s emotional well-being by providing positive role models and consistent, caring relationships. This can be especially important for children who have experienced trauma or lack stable family environments.

Additionally, volunteers often bring fresh perspectives and resources to local organizations, helping to enhance and expand their programs for children.

The Emiliani Project’s Role

The Emiliani Project stands out as a key player in volunteer efforts focused on children in Medellín. This organization works tirelessly to provide loving homes and quality education for orphaned and abandoned children in the city.

By partnering with local communities and international volunteers, The Emiliani Project creates sustainable solutions for child welfare. Their approach combines direct care with long-term capacity building.

Volunteers with The Emiliani Project can engage in various activities, from teaching and mentoring to helping with construction projects for new children’s homes. This hands-on involvement allows volunteers to see the direct impact of their work.

The organization also emphasizes cultural exchange, ensuring that both volunteers and local children benefit from the cross-cultural experience.

Stories of Change

Real-life stories of transformation highlight the powerful impact of volunteer work in Medellín. These narratives not only inspire future volunteers but also demonstrate the long-lasting effects of dedicated service.

“When I first arrived in Medellín, I didn’t know what to expect. But seeing the smiles on the children’s faces and witnessing their progress over just a few weeks was truly life-changing.” – Sarah, volunteer from Canada

One notable success story involves a group of volunteers who helped establish a community library in a low-income neighborhood. This project:

• Improved literacy rates among local children
• Provided a safe space for after-school activities
• Inspired community members to start their own educational initiatives

Another impactful case is that of Juan, a former street child who, through the support of volunteers and local organizations, was able to complete his education and now works as a youth mentor himself.

These stories underscore the ripple effect of volunteer work, showing how individual efforts can lead to broader community transformation.

Practical Travel Advice

While the focus of your trip may be on volunteering, it’s essential to be well-prepared for the practicalities of traveling to and living in Medellín. This section provides valuable tips on safety, navigation, and packing to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Staying Safe in Medellín

Safety is a top concern for many travelers to Colombia, but with proper precautions, Medellín can be a safe and welcoming destination for volunteers.

Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas or at night. Avoid walking alone, especially after dark, and use reputable ride-sharing apps or taxi services. There is safety in numbers.

Keep your valuables secure and be discreet with expensive items like cameras or smartphones. Consider using a money belt for important documents and cash.

Learn about the neighborhoods you’ll be working in and any areas to avoid. Your volunteer organization should provide specific safety guidelines for your project location.

Always trust your instincts and don’t hesitate to remove yourself from situations that feel uncomfortable or unsafe.

Navigating the City

Medellín boasts an efficient and modern public transportation system, making it relatively easy for volunteers to get around the city.

The Metro is the backbone of public transport in Medellín. It’s clean, safe, and connects major areas of the city. Familiarize yourself with the Metro map and consider getting a rechargeable fare card for convenience.

For areas not served by the Metro, buses and taxis are widely available. When using taxis, always ensure they’re officially registered and use the meter.

Many neighborhoods in Medellín are walkable, offering a great way to explore the city. However, be mindful of the hilly terrain and plan your routes accordingly.

Consider downloading a reliable map app on your smartphone to help navigate unfamiliar areas. Some apps even work offline, which can be useful if you don’t have constant internet access.

Packing Essentials for Volunteers

Packing smartly can greatly enhance your volunteer experience in Medellín. Here’s a list of essentials to consider:

• Comfortable, modest clothing suitable for your volunteer work
• Sturdy, closed-toe shoes for project sites
• Rain jacket or umbrella (Medellín can have unexpected showers)
• Sunscreen and insect repellent
• Reusable water bottle
• Basic first-aid kit
• Power adapter for Colombian outlets
• Spanish phrasebook or language app
• Copies of important documents (passport, insurance, etc.)

Remember to pack light, as you may want to bring back souvenirs or donations for your project. Many everyday items can be easily purchased in Medellín if needed.

Consider the specific needs of your volunteer project when packing. For example, if you’re working with children, you might want to bring some educational materials or games.

Lastly, don’t forget to pack an open mind and a positive attitude – these are perhaps the most important items for any volunteer!

Best Time to Visit Medellín

Medellín’s inviting climate and vibrant culture make it a year-round destination. However, certain periods offer unique experiences for travelers. Let’s explore the best times to visit based on weather and events.

Weather and Seasons

Medellín enjoys a spring-like climate throughout the year, earning its nickname “City of Eternal Spring”. Temperatures remain consistent, with average highs around 27°C (81°F) and lows around 17°C (63°F).

The city experiences two main seasons: dry and rainy. The dry seasons typically span December to February and June to August. These months offer the most sunshine and are ideal for outdoor activities.

Rainy seasons occur from March to May and September to November. While rainfall increases during these periods, it usually doesn’t last all day, allowing for ample sightseeing opportunities.

For those sensitive to heat, the cooler months of October and November might be preferable. These months offer milder temperatures and fewer crowds.

Popular Festivals and Events

Medellín’s calendar is filled with exciting events that showcase its rich culture and traditions. Planning your visit around these festivals can add a special dimension to your trip.

The Feria de las Flores (Flower Festival) in August is a highlight, featuring parades, concerts, and the spectacular Silleteros parade. This event celebrates Medellín’s flower-growing heritage and attracts visitors from around the world.

December brings the Alumbrados Navideños, a stunning Christmas lights display that transforms the city into a magical wonderland. The festivities last until early January, making it a perfect time for a holiday visit.

For music lovers, the Medellín Jazz Festival in September offers world-class performances. The Festival of Books and Culture in September is another cultural gem, featuring literature, art, and music events.

Things to Do in Medellín

Medellín offers a wealth of attractions and activities for every type of traveler. From iconic landmarks to hidden local spots, the city never fails to impress.

Must-See Attractions

Medellín’s must-see attractions offer a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. These sites provide insight into the city’s transformation and vibrant present.

Plaza Botero is a top destination, showcasing 23 sculptures by renowned Colombian artist Fernando Botero. The nearby Museum of Antioquia houses more of Botero’s works and other significant Colombian art.

The Metrocable, Medellín’s innovative cable car system, offers breathtaking views of the city. A ride to Parque Arví combines urban and natural landscapes, ending in a vast ecological preserve.

For a deeper understanding of Medellín’s history, visit the Casa de la Memoria museum. It provides a moving account of the city’s past conflicts and its journey toward peace and innovation.

Lastly, don’t miss the Jardín Botánico, a lush oasis in the heart of the city. It’s perfect for a relaxing afternoon and hosts various cultural events throughout the year.

Hidden Gems and Local Spots

Beyond the well-known attractions, Medellín harbors numerous hidden gems that offer authentic local experiences. These spots provide a deeper connection to the city’s culture and people.

El Castillo Museo y Jardines is a lesser-known treasure. This castle-like museum houses a collection of decorative arts and is surrounded by beautiful gardens, offering a peaceful retreat from the city’s bustle.

For food lovers, Mercado del Tranvía in the Buenos Aires neighborhood is a must-visit. This renovated tram depot now houses local food vendors, showcasing Medellín’s culinary diversity.

Art enthusiasts should explore the street art in Comuna 13. Once a troubled neighborhood, it’s now a vibrant area known for its colorful murals and graffiti tours.

Lastly, visit Parque El Salado for a nature escape. This eco-park offers hiking trails, a butterfly garden, and even a canopy adventure, all within city limits.

Charity Work in Medellín

Medellín offers numerous opportunities for visitors to give back to the community. Engaging in charity work can provide a meaningful dimension to your travel experience.

The Emiliani Project

The Emiliani Project stands out as a remarkable charity initiative in Medellín. This organization focuses on enhancing the lives of underprivileged children through education and care.

The project operates a children’s home that provides shelter, food, and education to orphaned and abandoned children. They aim to break the cycle of poverty by ensuring these children have access to quality education and life skills.

Visitors can support The Emiliani Project in various ways. Donations are always welcome and go directly toward the children’s needs. For those seeking a more hands-on experience, volunteering opportunities are available.

The project also organizes cultural exchange programs, allowing visitors to interact with the children while sharing their skills and experiences. These interactions benefit both the children and the volunteers, fostering cross-cultural understanding.

Volunteering Opportunities

Medellín offers a wide range of volunteering opportunities for travelers who want to make a positive impact during their visit. These experiences can provide valuable insights into local challenges and solutions.

Many organizations focus on education, offering chances to teach English or assist in after-school programs. These roles can be particularly rewarding, helping to improve local children’s future prospects.

For those interested in community development, opportunities exist to assist in building and renovation projects, particularly in underprivileged neighborhoods.

Lastly, animal welfare organizations welcome volunteers to help care for street animals and assist in adoption programs. These roles can be perfect for animal lovers looking to make a difference.

Meet Our Volunteer Leadership:

• Charles Navarrete, President: As the President, Charles leads our mission with unwavering dedication, ensuring that our initiatives align with our core values and effectively serve the children. Charles co-founded The Emiliani Project, inspired by his experiences as a military veteran witnessing the plight of displaced children. Read more about Charles Navarrete.
• Matthew Monroe, Vice President: Matthew cherishes the opportunity to make a tangible impact on the lives of orphans through The Emiliani Project. He emphasizes that even modest contributions can create significant change in Colombia. Matthew and his wife have two adopted children, Johanna and Gabi, who bring boundless energy and joy to their lives. His commitment to family and service reflects his dedication to living out his faith through action. Read more about Matthew Monroe.
• Cristina Ramirez, Director of Fundación Emiliani: Born and raised in Colombia, Cristina has witnessed the challenges faced by underserved children. Cristina oversees our foundation’s operations in Colombia, working closely with local communities to foster a safe and loving environment for the children. Read more about Cristian Ramirez.
• Bryan Hunter, Board Member: Bryan is driven by the singular mission of The Emiliani Project: to support Colombian orphans. He finds fulfillment in building homes that offer love and security to children in need. As the book of James 1:17 says, “Religion that is pure and undefiled before God the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world.” Read more about Bryan Hunter. 

Now is the perfect time to plan your volunteer trip to Medellín in 2025! Join us in building and maintaining Hogar de Cristo and caring for the amazing children we serve. You’ll have the opportunity to make new friends, work alongside our incredible team, unplug from the daily grind, and dedicate time to serving the Lord and others.

Upcoming Trip Dates:

• July 12-20, 2025
• November 12-19, 2025

Our home, Hogar de Cristo, is located 30 minutes south of Medellín in Caldas, nestled atop a mountain at 7,000 feet elevation, offering beautiful panoramic views of the countryside. It’s the perfect retreat for those looking to unplug and immerse themselves in meaningful missionary work.

Join us in the spirit of Saint Jerome Emiliani and make a lasting impact on the lives of these children. For more information and to sign up for a trip, visit our volunteer page.

1. Make a Tangible Difference

The Emiliani Project’s mission trip allows you to actively contribute to building and maintaining Hogar de Cristo, a safe home for children who have faced extreme hardships. Volunteers help with tasks like constructing classrooms, dormitories, and repairing facilities. Every bit of work directly impacts the lives of vulnerable children, offering them a brighter, safer future.

2. Experience a Beautiful Culture Firsthand

Volunteers not only get to serve but also experience Colombia’s vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and warm people. The Hogar de Cristo is nestled in the mountains of Caldas, just outside Medellín, offering breathtaking views of the Colombian countryside. This setting provides an enriching cultural immersion alongside the mission work, allowing volunteers to understand the Colombian way of life deeply.

3. Forge Lasting Relationships

Mission trips are about connecting with others over a shared purpose. Working alongside local staff, fellow volunteers, and the children of Hogar de Cristo builds unique, lasting relationships. These connections go beyond geographical and cultural differences, providing a shared sense of mission and mutual understanding that can last a lifetime.

4. Gain Perspective and Personal Growth

Mission trips often challenge your views, pushing you out of your comfort zone and providing new perspectives. By interacting with children facing incredible hardships, volunteers gain a deeper appreciation for resilience, strength, and community support. It’s a powerful reminder of the privileges and resources many take for granted, fostering humility and gratitude.

5. Unplug and Reflect in a Retreat Setting

With Hogar de Cristo situated at an elevation of 7,000 feet, the serene environment offers a perfect place to unplug from daily routines and reflect. The remote, mountainous setting encourages introspection, making it an ideal place for spiritual growth or simply a chance to reset and gain clarity on personal goals and values.

6. Embody Your Faith in Action – Mission Trip to Colombia

For many, mission trips are an extension of their faith. Volunteering with The Emiliani Project enables you to live out your beliefs through service to others. This mission trip to Colombia experience allows you to practice compassion, selflessness, and love, mirroring values core to faith-based communities and providing spiritual fulfillment.

7. Support a Sustainable Mission

The Emiliani Project uses donations and volunteer contributions efficiently, with all funds directly supporting the children’s home and its upkeep. This means every dollar you contribute, and every task you perform, has a meaningful, lasting impact. Your time and resources help create a safe environment for children to grow, learn, and thrive, and your contributions echo long after the trip ends.

Whether it’s your first mission trip or one of many, a journey with The Emiliani Project can be an unforgettable experience.

Tommy and Johnny Midtlyng may seem like ordinary American teenagers, but these impressive Eagle Scouts and brothers have undertaken extraordinary efforts to bring joy to displaced children in Colombia. Inspired by their Grandfather’s Colombian roots and passion for service, the brothers are pursuing their respective projects with The Emiliani Project, our nonprofit providing food, shelter, and education for abused and abandoned youth.

18-year-old Tommy raised an incredible $14,000 to construct a shaded pergola at the orphanage, creating an uplifting community space where children can play, learn, and gather. 

Moved by the stark need he witnessed in Colombia, Tommy unlocked generosity in strangers by sharing his mission over donuts and coffee. Among many donations, one grieving woman gave $5,000 after her son’s tragic death, finding solace in purpose.

Now, 15-year-old Johnny is fundraising to build a $60,000 playground so the children have their first safe place to run free. Already raising $10,000 through Ace Hardware fundraisers and outreach to corporate sponsors, he dreams of the kids experiencing simple joys so many take for granted. “They’ve never even seen a park before,” Johnny says.

The brothers’ dogged dedication and resourcefulness reflect values instilled by parents Brian and Katie. As Katie explains, “The more we get involved with Emiliani, the more we want to be involved. We see how well they spend money and care for the kids. It makes us want to be even more active.”

Through hands-on work abroad and at home, the Midtlyngs exemplify The Emiliani Project’s volunteer spirit. Their uplifting projects show how deep compassion crosses borders to help those most in need.

As The Emiliani Project President Chuck Navarrete says, “Your support enables us to reach more children and transform lives in the community.”

You can help people like Tommy and Johnny continue their mission by donating or volunteering today. Or use their work as inspiration for your own Eagle Scout Project. Together, we can empower vulnerable youth to build a brighter future.  

100% of your donations go to support these wonderful children – www.emilianiproject.org.

The Start of My Journey with Emiliani

I first learned about The Emiliani Project ten years ago, sitting in the pews as Deacon Chuck Navarrete spoke from the heart about this new nonprofit he had helped create. I knew instantly that this was a mission I wanted to support.

In 2016, I embarked on my first trip to Caldas to assist with constructing dormitories, classrooms, and other facilities onsite. While working with the team constructing buildings was satisfying, witnessing firsthand the desperation of parents pleading with Father Villalobos to take in their children ignited a fire within me that still burns today.

Over the years, I’ve watched our dedicated team build an extraordinary refuge from the ground up. It brings me immense joy to share that we celebrated a significant milestone in July – the grand opening and arrival of the first children into their new home!

While the physical buildings are impressive, meeting the kids, playing games, sharing meals, and seeing hope return to their eyes has touched me most deeply. Despite unthinkable trauma, their enthusiasm and warmth never cease to move me.

Please consider joining me on an upcoming mission trip to experience The Emiliani Project’s transformational power yourself. If you can’t make the trip, please know that 100% of your tax-deductible donations provide essential care, from food and education to medical treatment and, most importantly, love to these precious children. 

The Emiliani Project has nourished my soul. Thank you for enabling our collective mission to shine light into vulnerable young lives. You are a treasured part of this story.

With gratitude,

Jim Napier – Volunteer, The Emiliani Project