World Renew and CRWM are proud to partner with the Association for a more Just Society (ASJ). This Honduran organization is taking valiant steps to reach at-risk youth and transform some of the capital city’s most notorious neighborhoods.

There are 216 youth and adolescents involved in Impact Clubs aimed at fostering values and encouraging youth to work in their communities with a holistic vision. It is not easy to work with these often precocious or rebellious teens! Over the years ASJ has remained hopeful and determined, rejoicing with every young life spared from the clutches of drugs, violence, and gangs.

June and July featured several community outreach projects organized and executed by the Impact Clubs. Recognizing the priority needs in their own communities, the youth identified ways that they could make a difference. One club fundraised and utilized local resources to rebuild a wooden wall for an elderly woman living in extreme poverty. Others chose to bless a number of families living in 16m2 (172 square feet) slum housing units. The youth worked hard mixing cement for new floors and installed new aluminum roof panels.

Recognizing that teens have a keen desire for self-expression, ASJ and the Impact Club program organized a series of community art workshops. These activities provided youth with the opportunity to discover and develop their creative talents in drawing, painting with tempera and acrylic paints, and/or working with clay. The workshops culminated with an art exhibition in the Flor del Campo School, which was open for all community members to enjoy and appreciate the talents of their young neighbors.

Another AJS initiative involves family therapy workshops called “Familias Fuertes” (Strong Families). Impact coordinators found it was not enough to work just with at-risk youth if they went back to struggling households after each meeting. The 41 participating families receive training in strategies to handle conflict and encourage good communication. The theme for this period was “Buen Trato en Familia” (Good Treatment in the Family).

This session emphasized the importance of non-violence in raising children. Everyone was surprised to hear the parents’ honest comments voiced aloud. “That’s what I’ve been doing to my children,” they admitted. It was very encouraging to know that afterwards, many of those parents sought out psychological attention and individual therapy time through ASJ’s Gideon Center, indicating, “I want to learn how to deal with my kids.” 

Glory be to the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit for this blessing!

Irene Zepeda de Murillo

Country Consultant
World Renew Honduras