Jeni Joneyli’s Life Story

I was only eight years old when I arrived at the Hogar. My tenure there was incredibly rewarding; I was enveloped in the warmth and kindness of AGC donors and the Honduran staff who were integral to the Hogar.

It was there that I forged enduring friendships. Later AGC supported me while I went to university which was equally enriching. I gained valuable insights into teaching, engaged in sports, and cultivated strong friendships. My initial exposure to the workforce there opened numerous doors, ultimately guiding me to the police academy which I recently graduated from. I am grateful for these connections, as they now allow me to assist others, support my family, and sustain myself. Volunteering at the university was the highlight of my time there. I participated in a program focused on raising educational funds for children across various Honduran regions.

This experience taught me the importance of self-sacrifice for the greater good. It was a profound joy to meet like-minded individuals who share my values and interests—friends who have significantly shaped the person I am today.

I chose to pursue a career in law enforcement for several reasons:

 

    1. Inspiration from Role Models: Angie Guzman Blanco, a former resident of the Hogar, was the first among us to join the police force. Her journey inspired me to follow in her footsteps.
    2. Employment Opportunities: The scarcity of job prospects in my country prompted me to seek a stable career.
    3. Growth and Development: It provides avenues for both professional and personal advancement.
    4. The Opportunity to Make a Difference: The insecurity in the country affected even my commute to and from university. I would never even bring money with me on the walk out of fear of it being stolen. I wanted to make a difference. 

The police force is structured hierarchically, encompassing various ranks from agents to officers, each with its own training regimen. My training lasted five months, during which the Minister of Police initiated a fast-track program for university graduates to become officers, enhancing the administrative capabilities of the force. Because of AGC’s support obtaining my degree I was able to be a part of this fast track program and graduate as an officer. I am stationed at the national academy to educate future officials. My duties are diverse: teaching English, overseeing the kitchen, assisting the logistics chief, among others. Our mission as officers is to serve and protect the community—a responsibility I uphold with dedication as I teach in the classroom. 

As I reflect on my journey, I am filled with excitement and gratitude for the personal growth I’ve experienced.

 

My faith has been a cornerstone, providing comfort and guidance despite my imperfections. I’ve been blessed with the presence of compassionate individuals who have enriched my life with their kindness.

My aspirations are multifaceted: I aim to enhance the educational landscape of my country, pursue a doctorate in my field, aid homeless animals, and nurture a family of my own.

I owe a debt of gratitude to many: to God, for the countless blessings bestowed upon my family and me; to Mami Carmen, for her vision in creating a haven for children; to the generous supporters of AGC; to the devoted educators at the Hogar; and to Brother Angel, whose unwavering support has been a beacon for my siblings’ educational pursuits. Through Angel and his wife Mayra, the lives of many children have been steered towards faith. I am thankful for Randy and Mercedes, whose arrival at the Hogar brought a positive influence, particularly to my brother Jimme. To Mike and Margaret Jones, for their encouragement, trust, and commitment to my growth. To my friends Sandy and Alex Dejong, David and Rose Hiskes, Lynn Dugan, Mr. Alch, Paul And Flora DeGroot, Greg and Janet Brewster, and my father Juan Francisco Vasquez, for their constant support and love. And, importantly, to my Honduran friends and family, who stand with me through every moment of life.

A personal mantra that empowers me during challenging times is, “Effort is never in vain.” It instills in me the belief that success is within reach, and that with perseverance and faith, I will triumph.

Our Blog

Vasny Eliab Life Story

Vasny Eliab Life StoryBefore arriving at the Hogar, my early memories were shaped by life in two other orphanages. The first, Nuevo Amanecer, holds the most vivid recollections for me. It was a vast place, complete with an apiary and a large herd of cows—so large that...

Wendy Testimony

Wendy's TestimonyAs a young child, I found myself at the Hogar when I was just one year old, accompanied by my three-year-old sister. Our arrival coincided with the aftermath of Hurricane Mitch in Honduras. Growing up, I was always a dreamer, and my heart was drawn to...

Timothy Renew Serve Trip

We just got back from a wonderful serve trip to Honduras. We had a chance to visit many partners. At Point, we heard about the importance of sharing Jesus in gang-infested neighborhoods. At Trash Mountain, we heard a remarkable testimony at the landfill from a woman...