July 16, 2024
Gang Displacement is less effective than Community Transformation through Academic Formation, Gang Prevention, and Community Relief If you ever went to Chuck E. Cheese as a kid, you may remember “whack-a-mole.” Before Candy Crush and Wordle, when people played games at arcades, it was a classic game where the player used a fake hammer to […]
March 28, 2024
Dear friend of Lemonade, As we prepare for Easter, Psalm 137:1-4 (NLT) says the following: Ps. 137:1-4 (NLT) Beside the rivers of Babylon, we sat and wept as we thought of Jerusalem. We put away our harps, hanging them on the branches of poplar trees. For our captors demanded a song from us. Our tormentors […]
March 22, 2024
“Meet El Equipo (The Team)!” Every week, we are introducing the different parts of our Lemonade International team. This week, we are highlighting our Alcance Center cooks and shining a light on how they help provide the hope of Jesus and opportunities for communities in Guatemala City to thrive. This can only take place […]
March 21, 2024
We are so thankful that you are a partner in what God is doing in Guatemala City through Lemonade! This is lived out through various teams and we want you to “Meet El Equipo (The Team)”. This week we wanted to share the impact through the teachers that Lemonade is having on communities in Guatemala […]
December 19, 2023
On a recent, morning flight home from Guatemala I noticed the way bright clouds caught the first rays of sunshine and surrounded dark mountains and valleys still in the shadows. The stark contrast of light and darkness was impressive: the lush vegetation versus barren, black volcanic rock, the way the gentle, fluffy clouds softened the […]
December 7, 2022
For more than a year, the Board of Directors of Lemonade International has been in prayerful discernment about the next chapter of our international development work. Acts 1:8 describes the concentric circles of gospel influence, from Jerusalem to Judea, Samaria, and the ends of the earth. Lemonade International feels called to expand our vision to […]
November 4, 2022
Meet Jenny Schmitt. We are so glad we did. We are very grateful that after many years supporting and working with Lemonade, Jenny graciously agreed to join the Lemonade International Board as Board Secretary. Who are you? I have worked in Next Gen ministries for three decades and currently serve as the Next Gen Development […]
July 5, 2022
May 18, 2022
For more than two years, Guatemalan students have bravely battled the challenges of remote learning. But Diana was adapting how she learned even before the pandemic. Diana was born blind in one eye. She didn’t learn the extent of her vision impairment until a decade later, when she came to Vidas Plenas and was […]
April 25, 2022
Guest post written by: Jenn Johnson Amatuzzo As the flight begins its descent into Guatemala City, I feel a wave of peace and a sense of renewed life in a way I haven’t since the last time the familiar trifecta of volcanoes were last in view. Everything about this small country captivates me; from the […]
April 14, 2022
Recently Lizza and Cesar were working in La Limonada to help prepare for the academies to reopen. While Lizza was taking pictures, a young man drove by on his motorcycle and stopped to say hello. She almost didn’t recognize Abdias. The last time she saw him, Lizza was teaching his class at the Limon […]
November 19, 2021
October 27, 2021
July 7, 2021
At the age of seven, Gaby enrolled at an academy despite the obstacles she faced as a young girl. Before entering the program in 2014, Gaby had no way of verifying her age. Her mother’s involvement in selling drugs deterred her from filing a birth certificate with the government. Without a birth certificate, Gaby had […]
April 1, 2021
The reality for children growing up in the “red zone” of La Limonada—a term given by the Guatemalan government to indicate danger to the rest of the city—is not very hopeful. From their earliest moments of life, most of these children have known hunger and trauma, as well as some form of abuse, neglect, and […]
September 7, 2020
April 8, 2020
In John’s gospel, on Easter evening we find the disciples locked away because they were afraid of the religious leaders. Suddenly, Jesus comes to them and speaks: “Peace to you!” The word peace is likely meant to carry the sense of the Hebrew word shalom, which doesn’t simply mean an absence of conflict, but rather, […]
December 30, 2019
Have you heard? Did someone tell you already? Imagine the buzz around Bethlehem just a few days after Jesus was born. Especially after a group of humble shepherds came running in from the fields talking about a message they received from an a capella sky-choir of angels, the town surely couldn’t ignore that something amazing […]
December 17, 2019
Would you like to upgrade your phone this Christmas? Would you like a good deal on some other great piece of technology? If so, you’re probably looking in the wrong place!! INTERESTING FACT…one of the greatest technological advancements in the last 5,000 years is SHOES!! You heard it right…the first shoe prototypes were made thousands […]
November 7, 2019
“I always felt that I did not exist to my real mother.” Rotvin’s story is an example of one of the many challenges that extreme poverty inflicts on the people of La Limonada. He comes from a place of abandonment, abuse and anxiety within his home. However, his story is now one of hope, support, […]
September 25, 2019
I recently celebrated my two-year anniversary as the Executive Director of Lemonade International, and these last two years have been a whirlwind to say the least! God has done so much for the La Limonada community. As I look back on all that He has done for all of us, I am reminded of His […]
September 19, 2019
We are so grateful to Silvia Lopez for her commitment and service to Lemonade International, Vidas Plenas, and the people of La Limonada. Not only did Silvia serve behind-the-scenes as our Service Learning Trips and Communications Liaison for over a year, but her shepherding gifts and sweet smile encouraged everyone she came in contact with […]
August 13, 2019
With “Hope on the Horizon” in La Limonada the construction for Naranja, the 5th academy, is officially underway! We invite you to participate and celebrate what God is doing through Lemonade International. We will be serving a new community of children and families and we need your help to make that happen! Your generosity […]
July 23, 2019
Our precious friend, Ruth, has been part of the academies since she was 2 years old and is now 11 years old. She is the epitome of someone who has experienced the holistic love and spiritual cultivation the academies provide. She is lovingly described by her teachers as quiet and reserved yet strong and out-spoken […]
July 17, 2019
We are excited to announce La Limonada’s 5th academy! We celebrate what God is doing through Vidas Plenas. Serving a whole new community of children and families, construction for the Naranja Academy is underway. More details coming soon! Stay tuned for ways to join us in funding this exciting new location where we can serve […]
June 4, 2019
Today…we are thrilled to share Yamilet’s story with you – or as everyone knows her, “Yami.” Yami is the daughter of Rebecca who cooks meals for the children at the Toronja academy. Rebecca is able to provide a stable family life for Yami, her three brothers and sister. She is the leader in her home […]
May 14, 2019
“I want to be important, valued, and feel loved…” – Nicky We would like to introduce you to our friend, Nicky. Nicky is a 8-year old boy who attends of the Limon Academy. He is very passionate and detailed when making crafts in the classroom. Some of his favorites toys include Legos and puzzles. Nicky […]
March 6, 2019
If you have ever walked the streets of La Limonada, you know firsthand… That love is confirmed in presence. That true joy can be found in difficult places. That peace is needed in the physical and the spiritual. That beauty is often found in the mess of life. That hope can be birthed from hardship […]
December 27, 2018
What is it that has energized you this holiday season? Shopping for presents? Baking cookies? The thought that in just a few days the stresses of “celebrating” will all be over? At Lemonade International we are so grateful that you have taken time out of your schedule this year to support the work going on […]
December 19, 2018
By Christa Heinzelman “Blessed is the one who finds wisdom, and the one who gets understanding, for the gain from her is better than gain from silver and her profit better than gold.” Preverbs 3: 13-14 One person, one response, one moment, one forever memory…ONE is all we need to make a difference. For me, […]
November 26, 2018
Just over ten years ago God began using Lemonade International and the first “Limon” academy to give hope to a group of families in La Limonada, Guatemala by surrounding them with love, encouragement, and academic support to keep them out of gangs. And what a decade it has been! As we celebrate Christmas during the […]
October 15, 2018
We are excited to introduce Dan Fuhrman as the newest member of the Lemonade International Board of Directors. Read a little bit about Dan below. Who are you? My name is Dan Fuhrman, though my family calls me Danny. Very blessed child of God. Loving husband to an amazing woman. A proud father of four […]
August 21, 2018
Over 10 years ago Tita Evertsz started serving the community of La Limonada. This community of over 60,000 people developed out of a 36 year-long civil war – the longest in Latin American history. During these years, dictators and military leaders committed despicable acts of violence and terror against their people. These atrocities led to a massacre […]
June 27, 2018
We are excited to announce that Lemonade International is celebrating 10 years of serving La Limonada! It’s hard to believe that it was just 10 years ago that our founder Bill Cummings and his team were first introduced to Tita, her team and this amazing community. God has done so much over the 10 […]
June 8, 2018
For the past few years we have been blessed to have Beth Skinner serve as our Service Learning Trips Coordinator. Beth, and her husband Dave, have been (and will continue to be!) good friends of Lemonade International. They even spent a year living in Guatemala City serving the people of La Limonada. Beth is currently […]
May 29, 2018
As we conclude our blog series on the Lord’s Prayer called “In Limonada as it is in Heaven,” we invite you to pray with us recognizing that God is in control and to appeal to him to make his Glory known through the people of La Limonada. Read: Introduction | Part 1 | Part 2 | Part […]
May 18, 2018
We continue our blog series on the Lord’s Prayer called “In Limonada as it is in Heaven.” This week we reflect on the line “Forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us.” This week we invite you to pray with us that God would not only end violence, but give the […]
May 15, 2018
We are excited to introduce Kristin Lawrence as the newest member of the Board of Directors for Lemonade International. She comes to us as someone with a passion for La Limonada who is trained as a conflict coach, mediator and peacemaker trainer. Read more about Kristin and take a minute to welcome her to the […]
May 10, 2018
We continue our blog series on the Lord’s Prayer called “In Limonada as it is in Heaven.” This week we reflect on the line “Forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us.” This week we invite you to pray with us that God would not only end violence, but give the […]
April 26, 2018
We continue our blog series on the Lord’s Prayer called “In Limonada as it is in Heaven.” This week we reflect on the line “Give us this day our daily bread.” We invite you to pray with us this week that God would bring nourishment and sustenance to the community of La Limonada. Read: Introduction | […]
April 18, 2018
We continue our blog series on the Lord’s Prayer called “In Limonada as it is in Heaven,” Read: Introduction | Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 | Part 5 | Part 6 Thy Kingdom come. Thy will be done On earth, as it is in heaven. This begs the question: […]
April 11, 2018
We continue our blog series on the Lord’s Prayer called “In Limonada as it is in Heaven.” Read: Introduction | Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 | Part 5 | Part 6 Our Father, in heaven, Hallowed be thy Name. God as loving father. In many places in the […]
April 4, 2018
We continue our blog series on the Lord’s Prayer called “In Limonada as it is in Heaven,” Read: Introduction | Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 | Part 5 | Part 6 During the month of April, we are inviting you to join us in praying for La Limonada the […]
April 3, 2018
We want to share a deep and heartfelt “thank you” to Katie Høiland for giving her whole heart to Lemonade International, Vidas Plenas and the beautiful people of La Limonada over the last few years. Earlier this year she made the decision to transition out of her role as our Director of Strategic Advancement and […]
April 3, 2018
Tita recently had the opportunity to speak at Taylor University Chapel (video above) as well as at on of our partner churches, Forest Hill Church. At Forest Hill Church that Sunday morning, over 30+ kids were sponsored in the Toronja Academy! We encourage you to take a few minutes and watch the video above. Here, […]
February 2, 2018
To him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy— to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen. Jude 24-25
January 18, 2018
“The godly walk with integrity; blessed are their children who follow them.” Proverbs 20:7 (Photo by Scott Bennett)
January 18, 2018
For the last three years, I have had the incredible privilege of skyping regularly with Tita Evertsz, the founder of our partner organization, Vidas Plenas. While the purpose of our calls is to make sure Lemonade’s fundraising and communication efforts align with the greatest needs of Vidas Plenas and to walk closely together in partnership, […]
January 12, 2018
“By your words I can see where I’m going; they throw a beam of light on my dark path.” Psalm 119:105 MSG
December 30, 2017
Through each of you who have said “yes” to God’s call to give your time, talents, and resources to the work our partner Vidas Plenas is doing in La Limonada… Through each local Guatemalan (and one Nicaraguan and Honduran!) who have said “yes” to God’s call to work in one of Central America’s most notorious […]
December 29, 2017
We want to see God-given creativity, abilities, and potential drawn out and made to flourish. We want to see the children in La Limonada living full lives in Jesus. (Photo by JP Soto Photography)
December 27, 2017
As we finish the remaining days of the year, we are freshly reminded of all that has been lavished on us in the birth of our Savior. God’s outpouring of love, provision, and hope has renewed our vision to see those most in need in La Limonada experience transformation and live full lives in Jesus. […]
December 23, 2017
Many of us have stories about teachers who have altered the course of our lives. It may have been faithful guidance over the course of a school year, or something as simple as an affirming word that helped us identify our future calling. For all of us, a teacher does more than just teach. A […]
December 22, 2017
We want to fill these children with a love of learning! (Photo by Silent Images)
December 20, 2017
Today’s guest post is written by Kaitlin Staples, Children’s Minister at Istrouma Baptist Church in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Our friends at Istrouma have been incredible advocates for the children in the academies through their Give Christmas efforts. This year, Kaitlin engaged the children of Istrouma with Give Christmas in a new way! Join us in […]
December 19, 2017
1. HOPE MAKES ALL THE DIFFERENCE For children growing up in poverty, hope is quickly choked. But human beings are hardwired to hope. Hope is a matter of life and death. 2. PENCILS SHOULD BE MORE ACCESSIBLE THAN GUNS The children should have access to education to unlock the door out of […]
December 15, 2017
What will their future be? The time to help is now. (Photo by Tita Evertsz)
December 14, 2017
Pablo’s dreams are possible. Scholarships are keeping kids off of the streets and in their studies. They are replacing fatalistic despair with dreams of a future. During a recent walk through La Limonada, Tita stopped Pablo, one of the 2017 graduates, to ask him a few questions about the scholarship he received as part of […]
December 12, 2017
Today we are celebrating an incredible class of 2017! There is so much that could have pulled them away from this accomplishment. Violence and danger on the streets as they walk to and from school. Families struggling to keep the lights on so they could study. Sickness, depression, loss of loved ones, and other emotional […]
December 9, 2017
Give Christmas is an opportunity to come together to embody the love and justice Jesus came to bring – starting with La Limonada. We rely on the generosity of people like you to raise the funds needed for our partner, Vidas Plenas, to start the new year well. It enables children to begin their school […]
December 8, 2017
Last January, this little guy received a brand new pair of shoes through Give Christmas 2016. These weren’t just any shoes. They were quality, handmade shoes made right there in his community by Otto. Ready for the school year, he experienced the rare joy of a brand new gift purchased just for him! This year […]
December 6, 2017
This Christmas season, would you consider a one-time year-end gift to provide a new pair of uniform shoes, made locally by Otto in his workshop, and a bag of basic school supplies for one child? We need to cover the cost of 439 pairs of shoes and school supply packs for all of the children […]
December 1, 2017
The life, teachings, and overflowing love of Jesus shape how we seek to do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with God and the people of La Limonada. (Photo by Silent Images)
November 28, 2017
Today is #GivingTuesday – a global day of generous giving! After watching cyber deals flood your inboxes throughout Black Friday and Cyber Monday, you have seen opportunities to pay a little for gifts with big value. Today, we are asking you to give a little donation to give big impact to children in La Limonada! […]
November 21, 2017
In two days, families and friends in the United States will gather to celebrate God’s lavish provision and generosity to each of us. And as we give thanks for each other and for the abundance of food set before us, we hope you will think of those who don’t have quite as much. The children […]
November 20, 2017
In Guatemala, La Limonada is seen as a failed and hopeless slum. Stripped of basic services and often their very humanity, children grow up repeating the destructive patterns modeled for them. Childlike hope is quickly choked. We believe God loves the little children and welcomes them into his promises of abundant life. We stand behind […]
November 17, 2017
We believe all people have dignity and inherent worth, with unique gifts given by God to share with others. (Photo by JP Soto Photography)
November 10, 2017
We are motivated by our Christian faith to join God in working for the transformation of La Limonada. (Photo by Scott Bennett)
November 8, 2017
During the month of November, while the children are on school break, the academies continue to welcome them in for breakfast and devotions each morning. The rest of the days are devoted to teacher training, lesson planning, and team building for the new school year, which begins in January according to the Guatemalan academic calendar. […]
November 3, 2017
We believe in deep relationships – in listening, knowing, and honoring the stories of community members, staff, donors, and partners. (Photo by JP Soto Photography)
October 27, 2017
We stand with the marginalized people of La Limonada and with the committed staff of Vidas Plenas. (Photo by Silent Images)
October 17, 2017
Today’s guest post is from Frankie Erwin, who recently joined a Service Learning Trip with Istrouma Baptist Church, a partner church in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Frankie shares a reflection from her time in La Limonada and the special relationships God began during her time in the community. – I recently returned from La Limonada, and […]
October 13, 2017
The children are delighted to reply to letters from their sponsors! Where do you keep the notes and pictures your child has drawn for you?
October 6, 2017
“Then Jesus took the children in his arms and placed his hands on their heads and blessed them.” Mark 10:16 (Photo by Scott Bennett)
October 3, 2017
Today’s guest post is from Aixa de López, an incredible lover of Jesus and advocate for the people of La Limonada. She serves alongside her husband Pastor Alex Lopez at Fraternidad Cristiana de Guatemala. She blogs regularly (in Spanish) at www.aixadelopez.org, where today’s post was originally published. It is incredible to see local Guatemalans following […]
October 1, 2017
Guatemala is one of the hardest places in the world to be a child. Nearly 20% of the population is living in extreme poverty, just like in La Limonada. An estimated four in 10 children are experiencing sexual abuse right now. For each case that is reported, it is estimated that seven go unreported. These […]
September 29, 2017
Today, on National Coffee Day we celebrate Resurgam Coffee. Resurgam, which means “I will rise again,” was started by our board chair, Chris Marshall as a way to provide a great craft roast while funding hope in La Limonada. The staff in Guatemala love wearing their Resugram t-shirts as a reminder of the love and […]
September 26, 2017
We would like to introduce you to one of the incredible Guatemalan team members, Marina. She teaches the 6-7-year-old class in the Lima Academy. We asked Marina a few questions about herself and what motivates her to work in such a challenging environment every day. Where are you from? I am from Santiago Sacatepequez. Describe […]
September 22, 2017
Investing in peace in Guatemala means showing children an alternative to picking up a gun and settling for the gang life all around them. It means walking with them through their most vulnerable years to offer a bridge over the darkness beneath them. (Photo by Silent Images)
September 19, 2017
Earlier this month, we shared the exciting news that the Lemonade International Board of Directors has selected a new Executive Director. Charles (“Chal”) Knox comes to us with a wealth of experience and we are looking forward to seeing what God has planned for our ministry with him at the helm. While the announcement included […]
September 15, 2017
Happy Independence Day, Guatemala! As we celebrate today, we pray that all would experience spiritual and physical freedom. (Photo by Silent Images)
September 8, 2017
“Compassion asks us to go where it hurts, to enter into the places of pain, to share in brokenness, fear, confusion, and anguish.” Henri Nouwen (Photo by Scott Bennett)
September 7, 2017
Thank you for walking with us as our co-founder Bill Cummings made the decision to transition out of his role as executive director into his role as an emeritus board member. After a prayerful and diligent search process, the Lemonade International Board of Directors has selected Charles Knox as our next executive director. Charles comes […]
September 1, 2017
Children in the academies are learning to pray for others – from their neighbors in La Limonada to their sponsors to others who are suffering around the world! (Photo by Silent Images)
August 31, 2017
The effects of poverty, ongoing trauma, and violence are the most extreme on children, causing long-term damage to minds, bodies, and hearts. In addition to providing individual therapy for the children in the academies, the psychologists are always working on additional ways to equip the children with what they need to be healthy and whole. […]
August 25, 2017
Friendships formed in the academies can be a source of strength, hope, and love. (Photo by Lizza Majus)
August 12, 2017
Today’s guest post is written by Andrea Goslee, Director of River Kids at Rivers Crossing Community Church. We’re grateful for her passion and commitment to children from Ohio to La Limonada! And our special thanks to Ashley Johnson for all of the photos. – When I think of summer and kids, three things come to […]
August 11, 2017
Every child in La Limonada is special, with a unique story waiting to unfold. (Photo by ErlebNisse Photography)
August 10, 2017
It is impossible to be with Doña Veronica without feeling how real and tangible God is. An 80-year-old resident of La Limonada, Veronica has had a long life with both deep suffering and beautiful joy. The many wrinkles on her beautiful face each surely tell a different story. She has 15 children and now has […]
August 4, 2017
This week at soccer camp the children received a treat each day. While they all quickly savored their treats, this special kid decided to share his cookie with Lizza with generosity and love.
July 28, 2017
“When the Lord saw her, his heart overflowed with compassion. “Don’t cry!” he said.” Luke 7:13 NLT (Photo by Silent Images)
July 27, 2017
Every single day in La Limonada, we witness miracles. The miracle of 45 team members walking into a “Red Zone” community – known to be a place of violence and fear – with a sense of calling and love for the people. The miracle of walking with people who have no one else. But they […]
July 25, 2017
Join our sponsors-only trip and spend three days in La Limonada this October! You will get the chance to meet your sponsored child and their family. See first-hand the impact the academies, teachers, and psychologists are having on your child and their friends. And meet the local leaders who are embodying Christ’s love for your […]
July 21, 2017
Constant loss of loved ones. Constant tension. Constant trauma. Children in La Limonada get a break each day when they enter the academies. Kids can be kids here. (Photo by Scott Bennett)
July 14, 2017
There is so much joy when a sponsor and a sponsored child meet in person!
July 7, 2017
We continue to celebrate the open doors of the new academy, Toronja! Because of your response to the needs in La Limonada, 38 children received a hot meal every day this week, enabling them to concentrate on their teachers’ instruction and focus on learning.
July 4, 2017
Happy 4th of July and launch week of the 4th academy in La Limonada! As you celebrate “liberty and justice for all” today, we hope you will also celebrate the justice you’ve helped extend to the children and families in the “15 de Agosto” neighborhood of La Limonada. Yesterday, 38 children were welcomed for the […]
June 30, 2017
When you sponsor a child, our very own Lizza Majus delivers the happy news to the children in the academies. When you send a letter, she helps your child read and respond to you. If you choose to go meet your child, she hosts you and introduces you to your sponsored child. Lizza makes special […]
June 27, 2017
Over the past two weeks, you’ve heard a lot about how child sponsorship is making an eternal difference in the lives of vulnerable children in La Limonada. Now two generous donors have offered to give $20,000 for unsponsored children to receive the life-changing impact of the academies – if we can match their gift dollar […]
June 26, 2017
We want the children in La Limonada to reach their potential. We want to see their God-given abilities drawn out and made to flourish. We want to see them living full lives in Jesus. But the reality for children growing up in this “red zone” – a term given by the Guatemalan government to indicate […]
June 23, 2017
The academies are more than classrooms. They are a refuge of hope. (Photo by Silent Images)
June 22, 2017
Walking into the 4- and 5-year-old classroom in the Limon academy, it is clear these children have a truly special teacher. While new to teaching, Abby was made for the role. Her eyes sparkle and her smile exudes passion and love for the children. It fills up the entire room! As she calls the class […]
June 22, 2017
Sponsorship impacts the lives of children, families, and the entire community of La Limonada. Here are 5 ways child sponsorship with Lemonade International is unique: It addresses the unique needs of children in La Limonada in appropriate ways. This is not a program easily plopped down in another context. It is deeply relational and specifically targeted […]
June 20, 2017
Hard stories are common in La Limonada – stories of abuse, hunger, violence, trauma, and deep poverty. Children who watch life after life around them spiral into destructive, desperate, and fatalistic futures, without a source of hope that things could be different. Children desperate to have their stories known, heard, and guided towards a better […]
June 16, 2017
Child sponsorship impacts whole lives and whole families. Have you seen Dulce’s video? (Photo by Silent Images)
June 15, 2017
Child sponsorship is making a 180-degree difference in the lives of vulnerable children in La Limonada! How can I make a difference?
June 9, 2017
The academies are beacons of hope in La Limonada. It is easy to spot the soon-to-open fourth academy, Toronja, from a distance. This is the view of Toronja from the second academy, Mandarina. (Photo by Lizza Majus)
June 8, 2017
We have shared several of the recipes enjoyed by our service learning groups during their stay at the Lemonade Guest House – Traditional Pepián de Pollo, Pollo Con Crema, and Salsa Verde. Those who come to serve, learn, and build relationships in La Limonada also have the opportunity to taste the unique flavors and experience […]
June 2, 2017
We believe their God-given potential is worth investing in. (Photo by Silent Images)
May 23, 2017
You may have visited La Limonada as part of a Service Learning Trip, or maybe you’ve followed the story of this community from afar. Either way, here are ten things you may not know about La Limonada. La Limonada was once a lush and green ravine in the heart of Guatemala City with cows and […]
May 19, 2017
At the academies, boys and girls discover their value and worth as children of a God who knows and loves them. (Photo by Scott Bennett)
May 16, 2017
We would like to introduce you to one of our incredible Guatemalan team members, Christian Umul. He works with youth-at-risk [Learn more here] and is an essential part of the Vidas Plenas team. We asked Christian a few questions about himself and what motivates him to work in such a challenging environment every day. Where […]
May 13, 2017
Sunday is Mother’s Day, and we want to celebrate the moms in La Limonada. These are moms who love and sacrifice for their kids. Moms who give so much out of the little they have. Moms who want a better future for their kids other than the temptations that surround them in their community. Brenda […]
May 12, 2017
We believe in the hopes and dreams the mothers of La Limonada have for their children. (Photo by Scott Bennett)
May 9, 2017
Today’s guest post is written by Rev. Chris Schutte, the senior pastor of our partner Christ Church Anglican in Phoenix, Arizona. It is a theological reflection on John 20:19-31. _ In John’s gospel, on Easter evening we find the disciples locked away because they were afraid of the religious leaders. Suddenly, Jesus comes to them […]
May 5, 2017
Proper hygiene is a crucial part of developing healthy children who practice good habits and learn to take care of their bodies. Children in the academies brush their teeth together after their breakfast or lunch each day! (Photo by Silent Images)
April 28, 2017
A stark contrast to the tense streets and dark homes where kids grow up fast, the academies are filled with hope, laughter, and a lot of fun!
April 21, 2017
Exciting progress in the construction of the fourth academy, Toronja, as we work towards opening the doors to many more children this summer.
April 14, 2017
“He was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his wounds we are healed.” Isaiah 53:5
April 7, 2017
Vulnerable children are receiving a vitamin every day in the academies.
March 31, 2017
So that children and families in La Limonada enjoy full lives with dignity, justice, and hope.
March 24, 2017
In February, we made the announcement of the transition of Bill Cummings as Executive Director. After a prayerful process of identifying the qualities and qualifications of the right person to serve as the next leader, we are excited to share the job description and application. On behalf of the Lemonade International Board of Directors, we […]
March 17, 2017
You have given so many in La Limonada a reason to smile. (Photo by Scott Bennett)
March 14, 2017
In February, we gratefully welcomed Scott Bennett back to La Limonada to share with us his photography skills and passion for the poor. His photos beautifully capture the holistic intervention of the academies in the lives of the vulnerable children of La Limonada. It is an honor to see the impact through the lense of […]
March 10, 2017
Jesus loves you. This message accompanies every lesson, meal, and hug in the academies. You matter to us. You matter to Jesus. (Photo by Scott Bennett Photography)
March 8, 2017
There is no question that women have had a tremendous impact on history. Eric Metaxas recently wrote a book about seven such women whose bold faith, self-sacrifice, and deep love for Jesus sent ripple effects through the world. We read the stories of Mother Teresa, Hannah More, Corrie ten Boom, and others with awe. They […]
March 3, 2017
Wherever Janina goes, she is ready to listen, to pray, to offer counsel, and to intervene, meeting urgent medical needs in La Limonada. Her “clinic in a backpack” offers relief to many suffering from respiratory illness, diabetes, ulcer and bullet wounds, high blood pressure, and other health concerns. Her smile is a beacon of hope. […]
February 24, 2017
Education can stop a bullet. Scholarships are a powerful way to nurture dreams and encourage an alternative to gang life. (Photo by Silent Images)
February 22, 2017
“Poverty is the result of relationships that do not work, that are not just, that are not for life, that are not harmonious or enjoyable. Poverty is the absence of shalom in all its meanings.” – Bryant Myers Don German is a 68-year-old treasured friend in La Limonada, recognized immediately by his white beard, suit, […]
February 17, 2017
“I was very impressed by the teachers and the activities [in the academies], and also how much they care and give personal attention to the kids. It was a blessing to spend two days in La Limonada and shoot some photos for Lemonade International.” Scott Bennett first came to La Limonada on the Bloggers Trip. […]
February 10, 2017
“And if you spend yourselves in behalf of the hungry and satisfy the needs of the oppressed, then your light will rise in the darkness, and your night will become like the noonday.” Isaiah 58:10 (Photo by Silent Images)
February 9, 2017
In 2008, four friends began a partnership with Tita Evertsz and the ministry of Vidas Plenas in the La Limonada community of Guatemala City. For nine years, Bill Cummings has led Lemonade International in the role of Executive Director. In that time, God has grown the work in La Limonada from a handful of children […]
February 6, 2017
We are grateful to partner with the Center for Transforming Mission (known by the initials CMT in Spanish), an organization focused on the social and spiritual renewal of Guatemala. Groups coming on a Service Learning Trip are offered the opportunity to set aside one afternoon of their trip with a staff member from CMT, who […]
February 5, 2017
Today’s guest post is a reflection from a member of the Forest Hill Church Service Learning Trip last October. We’re grateful for group members like Jody Glass-Chapman who are eager to build ongoing relationships with us and the people of La Limonada. Thank you for coming to listen, learn, and love! Have you ever used […]
February 4, 2017
Every year, we invite groups from the US to come to the community of La Limonada to offer activities and lessons for the children, while participating in prayer walks, vision screenings, medical training, painting projects, delousing children, assembling mercy bags, trainings for teachers, home visits, and more. While groups have the opportunity to offer their […]
February 3, 2017
“The joy of the Lord is your strength.” Nehemiah 8:10 (Photo by Silent Images)
January 27, 2017
“Art is communication.” ― Madeleine L’Engle Trauma suppresses a child’s words and ability to express their emotions. Art changes that. (Photo by Lizza Majus)
January 20, 2017
Join us in praying this prayer of Mother Teresa for the most vulnerable in La Limonada: “Make us worthy, Lord, to serve those people throughout the world who live and die in poverty and hunger. Give them through our hands, this day, their daily bread, and by our understanding love, give them peace and Joy. […]
January 13, 2017
Join the children in beginning this new school year with childlike wonder, anticipation, and joy! (Photo by Silent Images)
January 12, 2017
Another school year officially began today! The children of La Limonada were welcomed back into their bright and cheerfully painted academies for a new school year, which runs from January through October. The teachers each decorated their classrooms in a special way to welcome their students. Instead of jumping directly into normal classes, the students […]
January 10, 2017
We are very excited to announce that two new members have joined the Lemonade International Board of Directors. After visiting La Limonada and engaging deeply in our mission, we are thrilled they have agreed to serve in this capacity. Chris Marshall is the owner of Resurgam Coffee, a direct trade coffee company that ethically sources […]
January 9, 2017
Last summer we invited you to help us launch the fourth academy in the “15 de Agosto” neighborhood in La Limonada. Through the generous response of many, the team in Guatemala was able to begin the steps to secure a building to rent while building relationships with families and community leaders. After many twists and […]
January 6, 2017
We want this little girl to grow up knowing she is a valued child of God. Next week, the doors of the academies will open for another great year of spiritual, emotional, and physical impact! Thank you to all our sponsors and generous supporters who share our desire for each child in La Limonada and […]
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