Ivana’s Open Door to Independence
We open the doors of the AGCI & Tim Tebow Foundation House of Hope in Colombia with great enthusiasm whenever we welcome someone in, but we also open the doors with great enthusiasm when it's time to cheer them on as they begin their next journey.
Today, we celebrate the accomplishments of one special young woman and her continued journey toward independence.
After 17 years in the child welfare system, Ivana* (23) has not only graduated university but has concluded her time at the House of Hope and is ready to continue her journey down a new path.
Ivana was torn from her home and placed into an institution for the first time when she was only 6 years old.
Having suffered from constant verbal and psychological abuse by their hurt mother and stepfather, Ivana and her four siblings found themselves on their own in a cold, impersonal institution.
And then, they were split apart.
Two of Ivana's siblings were adopted. But Ivana and the two others were passed around between four different institutions that lacked a loving touch or affirming hug.
Ivana's siblings grew up and eventually aged out of institutional care never knowing the love of a healthy forever family.
And so did Ivana.
By the time Ivana moved into our House of Hope, she was apathetic, numb, and didn’t see the point in trying to make a better future for herself…
But thanks to your support, Ivana found more than just the guidance she needed to earn her degree. She found a home full of joy, security, and connection that helped her break down the walls of her past and begin to truly heal from her childhood trauma.
With the support system she always needed, Ivana recently completed her technical studies and earned her diploma in the Management of Children with Behavioral Problems in Educational Situations.
With the door open to independence, Ivana has started a stable career as an educator and plans to reunite with and live with her older sister!
Saying "goodbye" to a HOHC resident is always bittersweet because these young women are more than just housemates. They are family.
Thankfully, this is not your typical goodbye but rather a celebration with Ivana in this major life milestone and a time to praise the Lord for the opportunity to know her and walk alongside her over the last year.
Today, as we say “goodbye” to one, we open our hearts and the doors of the House of Hope once more to whoever God has planned to enter the home next!
Please join us as we pray for Ivana as well as the next young woman who will join the House of Hope in Colombia!
AGCI
I want to thank each and every one of you for the time you have dedicated and for the wonderful opportunity to be a part of this home and this process. During the time you were with me, I want to tell you that you are amazing people with a wonderful heart. I leave happy to have met such incredible individuals like all of you. Never forget that the light each one of you carries is unique.
Infinite thanks to everyone, and may God bless you all. I will always remember you with a smile because you made me a brave, confident, and strong woman. Thank you for the unconditional love you gave me until the very last moment.
Thank you, and many blessings to all of you. 💖
*Name changed to protect privacy.