About Us
It started with a dream.
I was born in Lima, Peru and lived there until I was 30 years old. Growing up I witnessed poverty nearby in my neighborhood. Even though I was fortunate enough to have parents that were able to support me, I always wondered how I could help out all of these children that lacked the main necessities in life. I used to think that If I landed a great job, I’d have extra money and bring it back to the community. My dreams seemed to stay as dreams for a long time. I never found that great job and I still don't tons of extra money to give back but I always wondered, what if...
Suddenly, it became reality.
I immigrated to the USA when I was 30 years old and became a citizen shortly after. While living here I began to not take the great history, culture, and people I was surrounded by in Peru for granted. In 2009 my family and I had the idea of starting a fundraiser for Peruvian children in need. I initiated it by making a list of all friends, family members, and acquaintances that I had in Hotmail as contacts and sent them a note explaining what I was trying to do. Very soon, I started getting responses and people supporting us in this beautiful cause. Christmas was near and we packed our luggage and traveled back to Lima to have our very first Christmas breakfast celebration. We already had made arrangements with family members residing in Lima to help us coordinate the big party. Days before the event, we went back to the appointed group of people and reminded them that we will be waiting for them at the bus stop with transportation to take them to a nearby church in my neighborhood and where we were arranging to have the event.
The first Christmas that sparked our vision.
I still recall the children and the parents accompanying them, their smiles while receiving their gift baskets full of a set of clothes, a toy and groceries to share with their families. They looked like they had won the lottery even though it would only last them a little while! I felt that in that very moment our efforts were worth it. We got so motivated from this experience that year after year we have continued to do this and helped out hundreds of children along the way, recently obtaining our 501(C)(3) non-profit status with plans for expansion. Please share our story with others to support this cause. With small steps, we can accomplish great things.