In Santa Cruz, Bolivia, a volunteer came to support a children’s camp in the Águila Dorada Plan Tres Mil community with the simple goal of keeping the children safe and organized. It did not take long to realize that the purpose of being there was much deeper. Each child carried a strong need for love and care, along with a desire to give that love back. What started as supervision quickly became listening, understanding, and being fully present with the children.

Much of the time was spent with a group of teenage girls who at first appeared serious and rebellious. As trust grew, it became clear that their expressions reflected difficult situations at home. Each girl carried her own struggles, and some spoke openly about family members who had caused them pain. One girl shared that her relationship with her mother was her greatest challenge. Even so, the girls talked about their dreams of becoming professionals and building better lives. Their determination stood out. Despite hardship and confusion about faith, they continued to believe there was more ahead for them.

One child left a lasting impression. An eight-year-old boy named Oniel attended the camp for the first time and experienced swimming in a pool for the first time as well. Despite being restless and partially deaf, his joy was clear. His laughter and excitement spread quickly, touching everyone around him. In that moment, it was easy to see how small experiences can bring deep happiness to a child who has had very little.

By the end of the camp, the resilience of the children was impossible to miss. They face real challenges, yet they continue to hope and dream of a better future. Thanks to the support that makes this work possible in Bolivia, children like these are being seen, valued, and encouraged to keep moving forward .