Updates

Judy and her husband Raul live in a modest home in Libertador Bolívar, a small town about 20 minutes by bus from Santa Maria del Fiat, or the Mission School. Together, they’re raising four children and building a life centered on love, hard work, and an unwavering commitment to their children’s education.

Still young themselves—Judy was just 18 when their eldest daughter Ingrid was born—they face daily financial challenges. Raul works in construction as a day laborer, picking up jobs whenever he can. To help make ends meet, Judy makes and sells homemade ice pops for 50 cents apiece in their neighborhood. Despite their limited income, Judy and Raul have always dreamed of a better future for their children.

Santiago, Claudia, Dario, and Judy stand outside their home. You can see the sign advertising Judy’s homemade passion fruit/mango fruit ice pops next to their door.

Ingrid attended the local public primary school in Libertador Bolívar, where she quickly stood out as the top student in her class. As she approached seventh grade, Judy and Raul made a bold decision: they would do whatever it took to send Ingrid to Santa Maria del Fiat, knowing that Santa Maria offered the highest academic excellence in the area, and also was known for shaping strong, compassionate leaders. Though the $25 monthly tuition was a significant financial stretch, they believed it was a worthwhile investment in their daughter’s future.

Ingrid was accepted, but the transition was challenging. Many of her classmates had been attending Santa Maria since early childhood, and the academic expectations were rigorous. Judy recalls how Ingrid spent countless hours studying each night and often stayed after school for extra help. Her perseverance paid off. Each year, Ingrid has grown academically—and this past year, she finished fourth in her class. She’s now aiming for the top spot.

Ingrid, left, works on her computer skills in technology class. Ingrid just began her second year of high school at Santa Maria del Fiat.

But Ingrid’s aspirations extend beyond the classroom. Ever since she arrived at Santa Maria, she dreamed of joining the school band as a baton twirler. Unfortunately, the $20 needed for the required uniform was out of reach for the family. Then, for her 15th birthday—her quinceañera, a deeply significant celebration in Ecuador—her father gave her a gift she would never forget: her very own band uniform. Thanks to her father’s sacrifice, Ingrid proudly joined the baton twirlers and now beams with school spirit, proudly representing her school in every performance. Ingrid’s dream is to one day attend university and become a doctor—a dream that feels more within reach with each passing year.

Judy and Raul knew the impact Santa Maria del Fiat was having on Ingrid’s life. But just as they prepared to send their second daughter, Claudia, to the school, tragedy struck. Raul was in a devastating motorcycle accident, suffering a broken leg and a serious liver injury. With Raul unable to work, the family faced impossible choices. Judy worked harder than ever, making more ice pops, but even that wasn’t enough to cover Claudia’s tuition. That’s when our scholarship coordinator, Tarjelia, stepped in. After visiting the family and learning their story, she enrolled both Ingrid and Claudia in our scholarship program. Thanks to this support, the girls now receive tuition assistance, school supplies, books, and bus fare—everything they need to stay in school and keep learning.

Today, the youngest two siblings, ages 2 and 3, are still too young for school. But Judy is already looking ahead. As Raul heals and prepares to return to work, she’s more determined than ever: all of her children will attend Santa Maria del Fiat.

The story of Judy, Raul, Ingrid, and Claudia is one of sacrifice and hope. It’s a reminder that with perseverance, love, and a little support, families can overcome enormous obstacles. Scholarships don’t just lift individual students; they uplift entire families, empower communities, and lay the foundation for future generations to thrive. Thank you for investing in education with us, opening doors that can transform lives—for today and for years to come.