How You’re Transforming Lives: Jose’s Story
When you meet Jose, you first notice his quiet, gentle nature and kind mannerisms. But behind his peaceful demeanor is a story of strength and resilience.
As a young child in Jocotenango, Guatemala, Jose underwent multiple surgeries for a tumor on his face. “I simply had to get used to my situation — pain, injections, exams,” he recalls. “When I went out, it was very difficult to make friends, because others saw me differently. But that didn’t stop me from trying.”
Everything began to change when his mother brought him to El Patojismo. Now 16 and a student at El Patojismo’s Centro de Oportunidades (CDO), Jose found community, confidence, and a future he could believe in.
At CDO, Jose discovered two passions: math, which he now tutors for younger students; and coffee, learning barista skills in the student-run café.
“You start preparing the drinks with love and interest,” he says. “It motivates you to learn a lot more. Without a doubt, this is a great opportunity to improve myself… so that in the not-so-distant future, I can fulfill my dreams.”
When asked what his life would be without CDO, Jose doesn’t hesitate:
“Undoubtedly very different. I see a lot of personal growth, constant improvement, and I can confirm that the CDO taught me that I can do many things. It taught me to take the first step.”
You can help another student take their first step today.
Your gift makes a real difference
Because of you, students like José don’t just dream about the future — they’re building it. Thank you for believing in the power of education.
$33
5 visits to the medical clinic
$50
Healthy snacks for 350 students
$250
12 student sessions with a psychologist
$400
A computer for a student
$7,306
A teacher’s salary for one year
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JustWorld International
Established in 2003, JustWorld International was created to connect equestrians with a direct way to help fracture the cycle of poverty through education, healthcare, and nutrition programs for children around the world. Ambassadors from more than forty countries have since committed to “Ride for the Cause” and transform the lives of children through equestrian sport. Envisioning a more just world, the nonprofit organization cultivates strategic, project partnerships in a collaborative approach to impact the lives of nearly 10,000 children around the globe on a daily basis.
To donate, become an Ambassador, or learn more about JustWorld, please visitwww.justworldinternational.org or @justworldinternational on Facebook and Instagram.
JustWorld International is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization in the United States and tax-deductible donations are accepted in the United States. JustWorld International has no political or religious affiliation.
JustWorld partners with El Patojismo in Jocotenango, Guatemala, to provide children and youth with access to education, nutrition, health care, and vocational training. Together, we create safe spaces where students can learn, grow, and gain the skills they need to build brighter futures for themselves and their communities.
To learn more about El Patojismo or JustWorld’s other programs, go to: https://justworldinternational.org/
