Develop Leaders in At-Risk Communities, Costa Rica

In the middle of everyday life in the community, hope continues to grow through relationships, care, and the quiet ways lives are being changed.

One story that reflects this is the journey of a 16-year-old from the Bajo Zamora community who is part of the youth group. His life has not been easy. Since he was very young—around six years old—he faced difficult family situations that deeply affected him. Over time, those experiences caused him to become quiet and hesitant to trust others.

But little by little, something began to change.

Through the youth group, he has found friendships that look different from what he was used to—friendships marked by patience, kindness, and genuine care. For perhaps the first time in a long while, he is beginning to realize that he does not have to carry everything alone. He is learning that there are people willing to walk beside him, listen to him, and support him.

One of his biggest struggles is opening up. Trust does not come easily for him, yet even in that process, the relationships around him are a powerful reminder that healing begins when someone feels seen, heard, and loved.

Because of this, the leaders around him have chosen to walk even more intentionally by his side—listening closely, encouraging him, and reminding him that his story matters. Their hope is not only that he continues to find healing and hope for himself, but that one day his own story will encourage others facing similar struggles.

Stories like his are a reminder of why our work matters. Across the community, young people and families are experiencing support, friendship, and hope in meaningful ways. As our team continues serving, our prayer is that more lives would experience the restoring love of Jesus—a love shown through action that reminds people they are never alone.