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ABOUT US

Transforming Futures: Walking With Vulnerable Youth

At Transforming Futures, we walk alongside vulnerable youth in Guatemala as they take bold steps toward independence. Through faith, education, and life skills, we equip them to break cycles of poverty and step into a future filled with hope and purpose. Together with our supporters, we’re not just changing lives, we’re shaping generations.
Meet the Team

ABOUT US

Education Opens Doors That Poverty Keeps Closed

We provide access to quality education, tutoring, and school supplies—empowering children to break cycles of poverty and build meaningful futures.
Meet the Team

why we exist

Caring for Orphans in Distress

Transforming Futures places a renewed emphasis on supporting orphans and vulnerable teens in Guatemala because these young people face unique and critical challenges. Without parental care or adequate resources, they are at risk of developmental delays, emotional trauma, and a lack of preparation for adulthood. By focusing on equipping orphans and vulnerable teens with life skills training, education, and residential support. Transforming Futures aims to address these pressing issues and empower them to lead independent, functional lives.



This mission aligns with the organization’s Christian foundation and is inspired by James 1:27, which calls for caring for orphans and widows in their distress. Transforming Futures believes that supporting this vulnerable group is not only an immediate response to their needs but also a means of creating sustainable, long-term change that benefits communities as a whole.

The 100% Model
at Transforming Futures

At Transforming Futures, every dollar you give goes directly to programs supporting vulnerable youth in Guatemala, no overhead, no hidden costs. Your generosity funds real impact, from life and job skills training to discipleship, mentorship, and daily nourishment through our Feeding Center.

So, how do we cover our operational expenses?

Our board families fully fund our operational expenses. This includes administrative, fundraising, and communication costs. It’s not always easy—but it’s our commitment to transparency. It ensures that your giving goes straight to:


  • Supporting teens aging out of orphanages
  • Equipping them with life and job skills
  • Guiding their faith journeys
  • Helping them build self-sufficient lives
  • Providing daily meals and care


Thanks to our board’s faith and support, your gift becomes a direct investment in a teen’s future, restoring dignity, confidence, and purpose through Christ.

Download Our 2024 Annual Report

Our story

How It All Began

Transforming Futures was born out of a deep desire to help the children and young people of Guatemala, a vision shared by its founders: James and Lucinda Rachor, Rick and John Berry, Brian Panosian, Irelí Villagrán, David Davila, and Pablo Villagrán. In 2019, they came together with a common purpose: to create an organization that would support children and teenagers, offering them the love, care, and opportunities they need to build a brighter future.



Since its founding in June 2019, Transforming Futures has been blessed with the support of families in the United States who believe in the mission to transform lives and make a real difference in Guatemala.

Our impactful projects

Pastor Mercedez's Ministry:

One of our first steps was to support Pastor Mercedez's feeding center in the Guatemala City Dump. Here, children living in extreme poverty are given not just food, but also love and spiritual support. For over five years, Transforming Futures has been honored to provide the funding to make sure these children receive a warm meal every day, because we believe that every child deserves to feel cared for and nourished.
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Michelle Pho Elementary School

In 2021, we had the privilege of partnering with Blaine Pho and the local community of Pie del Cerro to build an elementary school in Palencia, Guatemala. This school, named in honor of Michelle Pho, Blaine’s late wife, is now a place of hope and opportunity for over 200 children. It’s more than just a school, it’s a doorway to a better future for so many young lives.
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Training Center for Orphans:

Also in 2021, we opened the first-ever Training Center for Orphans in Guatemala. Unlike traditional orphanages, this center focuses on equipping children with life skills that will help them transition into adulthood with confidence. We believe in empowering them to become self-sufficient, independent, and ready to face the world with hope.
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Through these projects and many more, Transforming Futures is working to create lasting change in the lives of children and families. Every step we take is a step toward a brighter future for the people of Guatemala, and we are so grateful to be part of their journey.
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download annual report 2024

Message From the Founder

Pablo Villagrán’s Heart for This Mission

As the Founder and Director of Transforming Futures, I am honored to lead an organization dedicated to creating lasting value in the lives of orphans and vulnerable youth. Each success story is unique, but the common thread in every transformation is the work Jesus has already accomplished on the cross. True change is only possible through Him.



I consider it the greatest privilege God has given me to lead this mission, bringing His love and provision to those He deeply cares for. Out of the gratitude in my heart for His grace, we now have the opportunity to share the Good News not only in words but through tangible actions that bring hope and restoration to orphans and vulnerable youth in Guatemala.

our leaders

We’d love to hear from you.

Don Wenner
Vocal 3
Don Wenner, Founder and CEO of DLP Capital, has led over $10 billion in real estate transactions and built one of the fastest-growing companies in the U.S., ranking on the Inc. 5000 list for 11 consecutive years. Driven by his mission Dream. Live. Prosper., Don’s leadership and passion for impact align with Transforming Futures, where his expertise helps create lasting change for vulnerable youth and communities.
Don Wenner
Vocal 3
Cinda Rachor
Secretary
Cinda Rachor has been serving Guatemala since 2005, leading mission teams and empowering communities with compassion and vision. With degrees in psychology and nursing from the University of Michigan, and as a mother of seven, including two children adopted from Guatemala, she brings both expertise and a personal connection to her work.
Cinda Rachor
Secretary
Rick Berry
Treasurer
Rick Berry, Treasurer of Transforming Futures, is an entrepreneur, software engineer, and angel investor passionate about helping vulnerable youth. With a computer science degree from Butler University and an MBA from Darden, Rick leverages his skills and firsthand experience in Guatemala to drive the organization’s mission and impact.
Dr. James M. Rachor
Vice President
Dr. James M. Rachor is Vice President of Transforming Futures Guatemala and President of Transforming Futures Charitable Foundation US. A devoted Christian and experienced dentist, he has led numerous mission trips and faith-based projects in Guatemala. Alongside his wife, Lucinda, and their seven children, including two adopted from Guatemala, Dr. Rachor combines professional expertise and a passion for service to make a lasting impact at home and abroad.
Dr. James M. Rachor
Vice President
John Berry
Treasurer
John Berry, a devoted Catholic, husband, and father of six, including a daughter adopted from Guatemala, brings over 30 years of business experience and board leadership to Transforming Futures. With a degree in business management and marketing, he is passionate about serving Guatemala’s children and helping build brighter futures through the organization’s work.
John Berry
Treasurer
Pablo Villagrán
Founder & Executive Director
Pablo Villagrán, founder and executive director of Transforming Futures Guatemala, left his role at the UN Refugee Agency to pursue his passion for empowering vulnerable people in his country. With degrees in communications and marketing, he brings years of experience serving orphans and children in poverty, leading humanitarian missions, and driving development projects.
Pablo Villagrán
Founder & Executive Director
Brian Panosian
Vocal 2
Brian Panosian brings over 15 years of experience at Cisco Systems and more than 20 years of community service in Smyrna, Georgia. A dedicated husband and father of four, he has led Sunday school programs, coached youth sports, and served as a board member and advisor to various organizations. His passion for leadership and service continues to make a meaningful impact through his work with Transforming Futures.
Brian Panosian
Vocal 2
Danny Sells
DLP Representative
Danny Sells serves as Executive Director of the DLP Positive Returns Foundation, leading initiatives in the U.S. and abroad to support unhoused families and at-risk children. With over 20 years of experience in faith-based mobilization, he combines his background in psychology and leadership with a passion for building thriving communities. Danny lives in St. Augustine, Florida, where he continues his mission to uplift and transform lives.
Danny Sells
DLP Representative

Our Vision & mission

From Survival 
to Purpose: Building Brighter Futures Together

We are committed to transforming the future of orphaned and vulnerable youth in Guatemala by creating a nurturing, family-like community where young lives can be restored through the love of Christ.

Through life skills training, technical education, job opportunities, and access to safe housing, we walk alongside each teen—equipping them to build a future rooted in faith, filled with dignity, purpose, and lasting hope.

Below are our core values that drives us.

Unity

We foster a spirit of togetherness, 
collaboration, and mutual support. Rooted in shared purpose and faith, we aim to build strong, inclusive relationships that reflect the unity found in Christ.

Humbleness

We lead with humility, recognizing that true greatness comes through serving others. We acknowledge our limitations and value every person’s contribution with respect and openness.

Service

Inspired by Philippians 2:1-10, we are committed to serving others with compassion, selflessness, and grace. Our actions are guided by Christ’s example, placing the needs of others above our own.

our impact

As of August 2025, Transforming Futures supports 120+ orphaned and vulnerable teens, representing 2.6% of the institutionalized population. Every life touched reflects the dedication to creating lasting change

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Together, We
Transform Futures.

Be the difference today

Build a personal connection that transform lives.
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Give Monthly

Walk with a vulnerable teen toward healing and hope.
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Join a Transforming Futures Vision Trip to Guatemala

Discover purpose and impact—join a Vision Trip to Guatemala and learn more about transforming futures.
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Recent News

2025 Annual Report

A year of progress, growth, and measurable change. The 2025 Annual Report shares inspiring success stories, key achievements,...
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Every Number Tells a Story of Transformation

Every statistic tells a story, a story of courage, growth, and hope in motion. Over 120 teens are learning and developing lif...
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A Hidden Struggle: The Orphan Crisis in Guatemala

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Six Months of Growth, Hope, and Changed Lives

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Nick Vujicic’s Conference

Transforming Futures had the incredible opportunity to attend the Nick Vujicic Conference, a powerful reminder that no obstac...
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FUELING THE FUTURE

At Transforming Futures, even snack time is part of the journey! Nutritious snacks help our teens stay energized and focused ...
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Building Brighter Futures

At Transforming Futures, our Training Center is more than a space, it’s where dreams take shape.Here, young adults learn life...
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It all starts with why we exist

In Guatemala, nearly half a million children grow up without parental care. When they turn 18, many face the world completely...
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2024 Annual Report

See the difference your support makes. Our Annual Report shares inspiring stories, key achievements, and the lasting impact o...
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our mission

Led by Faith.

Lived Through Service.

Transforming the future of orphaned and vulnerable teens in Guatemala by providing a platform of opportunity for their growth and development. We envision a nurturing, family-like community where young people can be restored and transformed by the gospel of Jesus. Through life skills training, technical education, job opportunities, and access to safe housing, we walk alongside them as they build a future filled with hope and purpose.
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Contact us
Transforming Futures uplifts Guatemala’s most vulnerable youth: orphans who have been abused or abandoned and children who live in extreme poverty. 
Transforming Futures, a 501(c)(3) organization founded in 2019, equips teenage orphans in Guatemala with job skills and emotional support as they transition out of orphanages. In addition, we provide daily meals to hundreds of children living around one of Guatemala City’s largest garbage dumps. Transforming Futures Guatemala is officially registered with the Superintendence of Banks of Guatemala and complies with all regulations to prevent money laundering and the financing of terrorism, ensuring transparency and integrity in every aspect of our work.