Families around the globe come in many different shapes and sizes. But most parents have the same dreams for their children. They want safety, health, education, economic stability and a better future for their kids.
A Young Man with a Dream
David is 28 years old in Bolivia. From Monday through Saturday, he gets up very early to work all day as a construction mason. Then every evening David studies for his construction engineering degree. And now, after more than five years of extremely hard work, David is finishing his construction engineering degree at the University of La Paz. He is in the top ten best students among his peers, and he is applying for an internship at a construction company after graduation.
David grew up in a family with six children. His father worked as a mason, but the family struggled financially. For many years, David and his five siblings shared a one-bedroom area of a house where his parents lived as care takers. Growing up in poverty limited David’s options to attend school and develop skills to find sustainable employment.
Thankfully, David heard about the JOEL Program at his church.
JOEL Opens Doors for Education
David had huge dreams to work as an engineer. So, he prayed for God’s help to finance his education. As David served in the worship ministry at his church, he shared his need for money for school.
In time, through the JOEL program, David received an educational loan at a very low interest rate that helped him purchase a computer and a printer. But more importantly, David received a support system through the JOEL program. As a part of the program, David started participating in discipleship, leadership training and prayer groups. He also found lifelong friends who helped him through a romantic breakup and also supported him as he searched for meaning in the midst of poverty-related challenges.
David desires to become a successful professional so he can help his family, his church, and young people like him. He wants to provide support to others struggling in extreme poverty to change their futures through access to educational opportunities.
David shared: “All belongs to the Lord. And I know that whatever I can share, it is because He enabled me to do so.”
What’s Next for David?
David feels so grateful to the people and churches who have prayed and given to make his dream possible. The JOEL program strives to give many students the chance to pursue a sustainable path out of poverty permanently.
David plans to rent a place of his own with his brother. He will continue helping his elderly parents as he pursues financial self-sufficiency. Please pray that David and his family will find more strength, grace and wisdom for their new season in life. David looks forward to finishing his degree soon and starting his dream career as a construction engineer.
Learn More About the JOEL Education Program and How We’re Working in Bolivia
How Bright Hope works in Bolivia
