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WHERE ARE THEY NOW? Charlie - A Life Full of Possibilities Posted on 1 Mar 12:35 , 0 comments

Hi, my name is Charlie. This is my story. I arrived at an orphanage at the age of 10. My mother abandoned us and my father went to jail, and there was no other family member to take care of me and my siblings. The orphanage where I lived made sure I received an education, but I always longed for a parental figure I could approach with anything. 

Once I aged out of the orphanage I decided to attend university and look after myself. A few years later, I met Corazon de Vida through an American I met at the orphanage where I lived for several years. CDV heard my story and offered their support during my 2nd semester, and from there on they supported me for the rest of my educational pursuit. They helped me continue with my goal of becoming an engineer. I graduated with a degree in Software Development Engineering. I’ve loved computers since I was a child and it is something that I am passionate about to this day. 

My journey has brought about my independence. I am very focused on growing my career and job opportunities. I currently work as an Infrastructure Analyst in the IT department at Medtronic. In my free time I enjoy gaming with friends and watching TV series. 

To the donors, I appreciate all the support you have given me over the years. Thanks to you I was able to achieve my dream of finishing school, and now I have a career that I love. Thank you!


Valentine's Day Spotlight: Flor - Love Blossomed While Breaking The Cycle Posted on 14 Feb 12:46 , 0 comments

Since my story was first featured in February of 2022, I can happily share that I continue to work as a veterinarian and trainer at Xel-Há- an incredible park in Quintana Roo that houses several marine and exotic species. I do have a big life update: I am getting married on February 24th!  

I met my fiancee during our internship at Xcaret where he served as a marine biologist in the aquarium and I served as a veterinarian. As fate would have it, we reunited in Yucatán where we both pursued our master’s degree. We have been together for five years. He is a very intelligent person, he always makes me laugh and knows how to listen.

Corazon de Vida’s Programs Director, George Pérez, will be walking me down the aisle on my wedding day. He has been like a father to me, always giving me advice, accompanying me in important moments, and always being someone I can trust. He has taught me that I should feel proud of everything I have achieved and that I can be a motivation for other children who have gone through the same thing. That is a beautiful thing. 

 

I admire the passion and love that Corazon de Vida has for all those who need them. Despite the great responsibilities they have, they take the time to listen and provide love to so many children. They become part of our family. Since I was little I had a dream of being a veterinarian, and I thought that perhaps I would not achieve it. Now I have a better life and a stable job, and I am about to start a family. Thanks to each person who is part of CDV, and to all those who decide to support this noble cause. Every action, no matter how small it may seem, can make a difference to a child in need. 


A Year End Message From Our Founder, Hilda Pacheco-Taylor. Posted on 18 Dec 16:38 , 0 comments

Dear Corazon de Vida Family,

Your support is making a difference! As we get to the close of our 29th year of providing for orphan and vulnerable children in Baja, Mexico, we want you to know that your support over the years is creating a wave of change in Baja that has a generational impact! Below is a short recap of this year’s activities.

LIFE SUSTAINING SUPPORT: Thanks to your generous giving, we continue to provide life-changing support for the children of Baja. This year we welcomed Casa del Jardin orphanage to our network of support. Casa del Jardin is a very special home to 20-25 children and teens. Orphanages in our network received monthly funds for basic needs such as food, water, shelter, utilities and care. We were also able to adjust our level of support to account for the devaluation of the dollar which dropped 15-20% in value.

QUALITY OF LIFE IMPROVEMENT: Several construction, repair, and facility improvement projects were completed this year. We also placed a strong emphasis on identifying and covering the health needs of the children, and ensuring that we have funds to support these needs. With our focus placed on preventive care to improve the children's health and well-being, it is no surprise that this year we had a significant increase in the number of kids who needed medical intervention, eye care, and dental work! With hundreds of kids and young adults in our network of support, we know this will continue to be a significant need.

EDUCATION: Thanks to everyone's participation, we had a very successful Back-to-School fundraising and supply drive. Some of the kids at the orphanages continue to struggle with raising their academic level up after almost two years of remote learning. We continued to fund onsite teachers/tutors who have been able to work with the children who need the most help (including new children who arrive at the home and need additional support as they incorporate into their new school.) We plan to continue to provide this type of support to supplement the children's learning. In addition, we have a "Computer Coding" pilot project at one of the orphanages, teaching the children coding skills using a program called Scratch, a program for kids developed by MIT. The children are learning to create digital stories, games and animations and learning problem-solving skills, creative learning, collaboration, and self-expression. We hope to motivate and inspire the children and create a wave of future computer programming professionals!

CONTINUING EDUCATION: This year we had twelve (12) students who completed their university/trade school studies!

Here is a photo of them during our graduation celebration in October.

Top row, left to right: Eunice - Medicine, Magui - Nursing, Alejandra - Education, Rocio - Dentistry, Griselda - Cosmetology, Paloma - Education, Kelly - Business Administration. Bottom row, left to right: Osbaldo - Customs and Logistics, Angela - Culinary, Charlie Engineering. Not pictured: Karen - Engineering, Lupita - Law.

Nothing fills our hearts more than to see our children succeed! If you EVER wonder whether your support makes a difference, they are living proof that it does. Together we are giving orphaned and abandoned children an opportunity for a life of purpose and possibility.

Please consider making an additional end-of-the-year tax-deductible donation to help us continue to make the dream of a better life a reality for our kids! Thank you for your support and partnership in this work! 

Click here to donate today: https://form.jotform.com/221146956589166


WHERE ARE THEY NOW? Lupita - Breaking The Cycle Posted on 13 Dec 17:24 , 0 comments


Hi, my name is Lupita. This is my story. I entered an orphanage at the age of 5. I arrived in Tijuana from Guadalajara with my mother and two older sisters. My mother would often leave us home alone so she could go to work. She was a single parent without support, so she found it difficult to care for us. It was then she decided to put us in the orphanage’s care. My life in the orphanage was tough because I was too young to understand why I was there, but I later developed independence and empathy.

 

I met Corazon de Vida during one of their orphanage visits. They have impacted my life tremendously. My only father figure was and will be George (CDV's Baja Programs Director). The quality time that he has shown me is priceless, he is my angel, my light in the dark, he’s my father. CDV continued to help me after aging out of the orphanage. I would send my grades and could rest assured my school fees would be covered, I would have a roof over my head and food on my table. They only asked me to stay in school and avoid getting in trouble. Today, I still receive help from CDV in the form of love and warmth. They are very involved in my life, they are my family and always will be. 

Thanks to CDV I attended school and got a degree in psychology. Initially, I chose that career to focus on child psychology but ended up focusing on industrial psychology instead. Currently, I work at a small business company in Tijuana as a human resources supervisor.  I will forever be grateful for everything because I can honestly say that none of it would have been possible without CDV’s generosity. I am a single mom with a beautiful 3-year-old, a lovely job, and a sustainable lifestyle. In my free time, I love painting in watercolors, I have no idea what I am doing, but I enjoy it! I also love watching movies and spending time with my daughter. 

"I tell them the cycle is being broken." 

I want to say that I will be forever grateful to CDV and its supporters because they played a crucial role in my success. Every time I tell my story to people they feel pity for me and I tell them the cycle is being broken. I tell them about CDV and how my life changed since they entered my life, I ask them to not feel bad and to applaud my success, our success. I did not understand before but I do now and I know that I am not a person to feel pity for. I am a strong woman, a strong mother who had a tough life as a child and grew up in a different environment than any other child would but had the best of the results. 

I want to thank every one of the donors. We see Corazon de Vida, but I am sure there is a huge community behind everything they do. You are part of something truly magical. You may not be able to see each of us grow into our best version, but rest assured that there are marvelous stories to be told. Corazon de Vida cannot be defined in one word. They are hope, light, dreams, love, and health. With them on your side, you can be whoever you want to be, you just need to have clear ideas and a defined mindset, and the rest will be taken care of. 


WHERE ARE THEY NOW? Jaqueline - Reaching for Success Posted on 26 Sep 08:51 , 0 comments

Hi, my name is Jaqueline. This is my story. I entered the orphanage Casa Hogar EL REINO DE LOS NIÑOS as a 9-year old because my mother couldn’t care for me after my grandfather, my primary caregiver, passed away. After his death, my mother completely neglected me for a year, so I was referred to child protective services. 

 

My life changed radically for the better. At the orphanage, I was surrounded by people who showed me love and acceptance. Many children shared their experiences with me, I would certainly not have had that chance outside the orphanage. I look back on that stage of my life with great affection and gratitude. It was where I met my future adoptive mother.

 

I was adopted at the age of 14. My adoptive mother told me she couldn't afford to put me through college, so I told myself I would work hard to achieve it. Since then, I worked hard in different places to cover costs during high school. While in high school, a friend's family felt compassion for me and decided to support my university expenses if I got accepted. I made it to university and they provided support until the 5th semester (two and a half years). The support ended when my friend's father tried to abuse me by saying, “YOU THINK THINGS ARE GIVEN FOR FREE.” I knocked on the doors of Mexico’s National System for Integral Family Development since I wanted with all my might to succeed. They supported me for a year, lent me a house but didn't help me with food, and that meant that I couldn't do it alone. The nursing career does not allow you to work since the schedule is very difficult. As a result, I decided to abandon my dreams and start working so I could provide for myself.

 

Saddened, I went to drop out of school, halfway through my degree. I was crying in the library when a student came up to me and asked me what was wrong. After I explained my situation to her, she told me she knew Corazon de Vida and gave me their contact information. I was happy to get in touch and receive a response. I couldn't believe something this good was happening to me. They told me they would help me with housing, tuition,  food, EVERYTHING…..that was truly a gift from God.

 

I always knew I wanted to pursue nursing. At the age of 8, I became responsible for my grandfather in his last days. Without realizing that from that time on, I was already a nurse. Today, I am very lucky to work within my profession for one of the best-paid hospitals in Ensenada. I do what I am passionate about with love, and I'm going for more. I’m about to start a diploma program in pediatric emergencies.

 

I thank God for receiving this support. I am a person like many with a lot of needs and without family members to support me. Corazon de Vida is a great blessing. The donors who make this possible, forever mark the lives of people like me, who at the time people didn't give a single cent to. Now, I consider myself a successful person.

If I could describe the foundation in just one word it would be BLESSING. Thank you for all you do.


WHERE ARE THEY NOW? Isac - Thriving in Stability Posted on 31 Aug 16:12 , 3 comments

To the donors, thank you very much for all the help you gave me when I needed it most.

WHERE ARE THEY NOW? Cecilia - A Life Transformed Posted on 28 Jun 15:08 , 0 comments

Hi, my name is Cecilia, this is my story. At the age of 14, I arrived at an orphanage, called Casa Hogar Estado 29. It became one of the most significant experiences of my life. It marked a turning point, transforming my past and shaping my future.

The home became a true melting pot of experiences and learning. Living with other young people in similar situations showed me that I was not alone in my journey. We shared our stories and supported each other in our daily struggles. I understood the importance of empathy and solidarity, values that I still hold in my heart.

During my stay at the orphanage, I had the incredible privilege of crossing paths with Corazon de Vida, who played a fundamental role in my university career and opened the doors to a promising future. Thanks to your generosity and support, today I can proudly say that I have a degree in psychology specializing in organizational development, currently working at the company Work One Solutions. As a professional, my passion lies in being an agent of change. I work hand in hand with leaders and teams, providing solutions and strategies that promote motivation, collaboration, and emotional well-being. I firmly believe in people's power and ability to drive organizational success.



The opportunity to become a licensed psychologist has been a significant achievement in my life. I thank the foundation that made this possible and all the people who have believed in me throughout my career. Your unwavering support has inspired me to keep going and make a difference in the workplace.

The CDV Foundation went beyond education support. It also gave me experiences that I never thought possible for someone like me who came from a group home. Thanks to them, I had the opportunity to obtain a visa, visit Disneyland, get to know San Francisco, and discover places that I only saw in movies. These experiences left an indelible mark on my heart and reminded me that dreams can come true.

Today, I look back and realize how far I’ve come. I thank God and life for leading me on this path. Although the difficulties were not easy to face, they taught me to value each small victory and not to take moments of happiness for granted. Today, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to share my story. If I can inspire someone who is in a similar situation, my purpose will be fulfilled. We can all face adversity and find the power to build a fulfilling and meaningful life.

To all those who support the foundation, I want to say the impact goes beyond education. You are changing lives and opening doors to a future full of opportunities for young people like me. I urge you to continue your support because every contribution counts and makes a significant difference to those who need a boost on their path to reaching their goals.


WHERE ARE THEY NOW? Marlene - Creating Change Posted on 17 May 15:27 , 1 comment



I entered the orphanage system when I was 14 years old. I was a troubled child who grew up in a dysfunctional family. At 12 years old, I had a drug addiction which eventually led me to overdose; and was hospitalized in critical condition. After that, I decided I didn’t want to continue down that path and I wanted to do better. I decided to sober up in a rehab center,  but due to my age, my family decided to place me in an orphanage in Ensenada, Baja California, where I met Corazon de Vida. At first, I was very uncomfortable with how caring they were towards me since I was not used to having that in my family. Their interest in my well-being exceeded my expectations. In the orphanage, I was given responsibilities that taught me how to be independent and grateful for the little things in life. 


CDV reached out to me once I was out of the orphanage to check up on me and see if I was interested in going to university. I explained my situation and they offered to pay any school expenses I couldn’t handle as long as I stayed in school. I began studying communications but after a year I dropped out of school, of course, CDV would not allow that! They reached out to me again and convinced me to go back to school but this time for marketing. I decided on this career initially because I wanted to focus on Sports Marketing since at that time I was on a soccer team. 

Currently, I am working for Corazon de Vida as their Social Media Content Creator & Community Manager. I have a beautiful baby who is almost a year old, and my favorite thing to do is spend time with my daughter and our pets.  My heart could burst at how thankful I am for all the help that CDV has given me.

To everyone that has donated, I send a tremendous thank you, your donations are being used effectively and are making a huge impact in our lives. Even now, when I look at my daughter I realize that I wouldn’t be in this position if it wasn’t thanks to all your support. 

"My troubled inner child cries with happiness because you gave me the tools to be a better person and make better life decisions, not only for me but for my daughter." - Marlene

 


WHERE ARE THEY NOW? Eliza - Advocating For Opportunities Posted on 20 Apr 12:32 , 1 comment

Hello, my name is Eliza, this is my story. My siblings and I arrived at an orphanage when I was 6 years old because of family dysfunction. I met Corazon de Vida over 14 years ago while living at the orphanage. They provided help with my early schooling as a young girl and they continued to follow up with me about my future university plans. 


Corazon de Vida helped me long after I left the orphanage and supported my higher education. Since I love studying laws and the structure that contributes to my country, Mexico, I obtained a law degree. I now work in the area of Immigration Law, and I am also a criminal and tax litigator, but more dedicated to that area of immigration. A year ago, I began the process of practicing in the area of lawful migration so I can better serve Mexico and the United States. I hope to create an immigration law firm in the future.


The word 'thank you' falls short in conveying my gratitude to donors who have contributed to my success, Corazon de Vida is truly part of my family. They have raised me with a lot of guidance and love, and they have been a blessing in my life for many years.


WHERE ARE THEY NOW? Griselda - A Fulfilled Life Posted on 9 Mar 14:00 , 1 comment

 

Hi, my name is Griselda, this is my story.  My sister and I entered the orphanage when I was 8 years old.  At that time, we did not understand why we had to leave our home and go to an orphanage.  Later I understood that we were fleeing an abusive situation at home. The orphanage offered my mother work and she accepted. She dedicated 10 years of her life to taking care of babies. My sister and I were placed with the other children. My life in the orphanage was the greatest thing I could ever imagine. Obviously, when I arrived, everything was very confusing and I wanted to be with my mother, but as time went by, I adapted to my new life. 

Corazon de Vida has been supporting the orphanage since 1994, but I was already out of the orphanage and in university when I first connected directly with Corazon de Vida. At the time, I was working to fund my school and housing in Ensenada, and I was having a hard time covering all expenses. I was not sure if I was going to be able to continue with school.  A fellow student and friend from the orphanage told me about Corazon de Vida’s scholarship program, she suggested I send them an email.  I was honestly afraid they would not answer me, afraid they would tell me they could not help me. I sent the email and a week later I got a response from them, fortunately, I received the scholarship!

Corazon de Vida’s support made a big impact on my ability to continue and complete my university degree. Their commitment to our success shows up in everything they do for us, their unconditional support, their way of taking care of us, protecting us, and teaching us there is always something better for each of us even if we don't see it.  They give without receiving anything in return, well, yes... they receive our love, trust, and gratitude. 

I earned a degree in Business Administration. I am currently working at the Center for Scientific Research and Higher Education CICESE of Ensenada. I have been working at this center for two years and I really like what I do!  I provide administrative support to the Marine Ecology Postgraduate program coordinator and researchers. In my free time, I enjoy exercising, reading, and discovering new coffee shops. I have a peaceful life!

I believe God always puts people in your path for a reason. The foundation is more than a home, it’s a breath of hope and strength. Infinite thanks to each of the donors who support the foundation and make many children's dreams come true.  May God continue to bless you so that you can continue to support the foundation and children as you have done to this day.