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Nathan : Today we visited what is known as the Workshop, although it functions as much more than a trades program. Because there are far more students than the local schools can accommodate here at one time, the school day is divided into two, and sometimes even three, shifts. Some children attend classes in the morning while others attend in the afternoon or evening. That leaves many students with half of each day outside the classroom. The Workshop provides a safe, structured place for the boys to spend that time. Most of the day is dedicated to completing homework, with tutors available to provide guidance when needed. Alongside their studies, the boys also receive practical skills training. The facility includes a modest metalworking shop equipped with welders, grinders, a chop saw, and a drill press, where they are learning to build items such as bed frames that can eventually provide both valuable job skills and an income.
The property itself is an impressive example of thoughtful stewardship. Built across four city lots, it also includes a small exercise area, a garden, and plans for a future mechanics shop once the necessary tools and a suitable instructor become available. A generous donor later provided a fifth lot, where the ministry built a covered synthetic soccer field. Rather than serving only the boys in the program, the field is rented out regularly to the community, generating approximately $1,800 to $2,000 per month. That income covers the food, supplies, and maintenance for the entire facility, while outside supporters continue to fund the staff salaries.
There is also a garden on the property. Beyond teaching practical gardening skills, it provides a daily opportunity to illustrate biblical truths. As the boys plant, weed, and harvest, they are reminded that we reap what we sow—not only in the soil, but in our character, our friendships, and the choices we make each day. It was encouraging to see a ministry intentionally investing in both the practical and spiritual lives of these young men.
Carla : I began the morning with two and a half hours of Bible study alongside four of the women served through El Jordán. Before opening God's Word, we spent over half an hour in prayer as the women shared the burdens they carry—broken relationships, depression, difficult home situations, childhood trauma, and the ongoing challenges of rebuilding their lives. Hearing their testimonies was heartbreaking and a powerful reminder of how much these women need our prayers. We are deeply thankful for Corina and the staff, who patiently listen, love, and faithfully walk alongside them through every step of their journey.
Corina led the study through Genesis 1, and it was a joy to watch the women eagerly participate. They answered questions, followed along carefully, took notes, and copied everything from the whiteboard. None of these ladies came from a Christian background, so every bit of biblical understanding they have has been lovingly taught over the years through the ministry of El Jordán. Seeing their hunger to know God's Word was both encouraging and humbling.
Later, I joined Nathan and Brantley at the boys' workshops. The morning boys receive breakfast and lunch, while the afternoon group is served lunch and an afternoon snack. One of the boys had made fresh donuts completely from scratch, and it was fun to watch him teach Brantley a few baking techniques as they worked together. They were all excited to try their hand at a few games of chess with Nathan & Brantley as well. Beyond learning practical skills, these young men are being given stability, encouragement, and opportunities that many have never had before. It was another valuable afternoon learning more about this important ministry and the lives it is impacting.
To finish the day, we enjoyed dinner at a small roadside Bolivian food stand, sampling a variety of local favourites—fresh pastries, empanadas, cheese-filled rice patties, corn with cheese, fried plantain, and several other delicious treats. It was a wonderful way to experience a little more of Bolivian culture.
It was another full and meaningful day. We are grateful for the privilege of witnessing the work God is doing through El Jordán and continue to thank Him for the faithful staff who are investing so deeply in the lives of vulnerable women and children.
