Acquired a second training center space. To accommodate the growth of our training program for teenage orphans—our goal is to expand the program from 50 to 80 students in 2024—we rented the second floor of a building within walking distance from our first space.
Provided jobs and housing to several teens who aged out of orphanages. Four of our students turned 18 years old and had to move out of their orphanages. We provided them with apartments and essential items for living independently. We also found jobs for three of them.
Proposed a scholarship program with local trade schools. We started discussions with trade schools in Guatemala City and the surrounding area so that our students can attend classes and gain skills for entry-level jobs.
Continued to provide meals in our Feeding Center. We fed around 450 children in the Guatemala City Garbage Dump four days per week. We also started the process of acquiring new equipment so that we can accommodate up to 100 children eating on site.
Success story: What Happens When Our Students Turn 18?
When our students turn 18, they must leave their home—an orphanage or children’s home—and live independently. Transforming Futures is there to help them during this difficult transition. On Luis Castellanos’s birthday, we were beside him every step of the way. We provided him with a studio apartment and helped him move. We also connected him with a local bakery, which gave him a full-time job. Luis now works at the bakery during the day and continues his studies in the evening. “I thank God for the people who helped me get this job,” Luis said. “Thank you, Transforming Futures, and God bless you.”
Staff Updates
We currently employ executive director Pablo Villagrán, program coordinator Julissa Veliz, a social worker, two trainers, and facilities manager. We also collaborate with four independent contractors: a law firm, accountant, communications specialist, and copywriter.
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.
