It’s hard to describe the joy and purpose I’ve found through involvement with The Emiliani Project over the last decade. As a ministry focused on helping vulnerable children in Colombia, The Emiliani Project has been life-changing for me.
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
