Children International

By Javier Cárcamo, Communications Coordinator for Children International in Guatemala.

Like a gentleman, Don Eliseo Molina awaited me punctually with his grandson Jonatan at our designated meeting place. Before I even started asking questions, he softly began to tell a story that started with the coming of the trolley, the revolution, the earthquake, Children International’s entrance into his community and past governments. He even mentioned his plans for the future. That’s right – Don Eliseo has plans for the future. He wants to travel.
 

Don Eliseo Molina is well known at Children International’s sponsorship agency in Guatemala. At 75 years old, he is one of its most active and dynamic volunteers. His work as a volunteer spans over 12 years, and he defines his motivation with these words: “I work as a volunteer because I like to help people.”

Among these people Don Eliseo helps is his 7 year-old sponsored grandson, Jonatan. Jonatan is yet another motivating factor for Don Eliseo’s important work in the community, serving approximately 50 families whose children and youth see and respect him as an authentic father figure for all...someone who is always concerned with bringing information, fulfilling sponsorship requirements and carrying good news to those who benefit from the program.

His deep blue eyes and white hair convey serenity as he tells his story. “I like to help children because many years ago I taught elementary school. Later, as a volunteer, I found a way to keep working so children won’t lose their childhood. I remember that when the program first started here they would give the families groceries, but that didn’t last long because their need would sometimes drive the families to sell what they received. So the help changed, and I think for the better, because no one can take away the benefits of education and health.”

Perhaps the hardest part of the visit with Don Eliseo was bringing my thoughts back from that journey through the strata of time. A powerful phrase emerged from his wise thoughts: “They always say that the past was better, but that’s not always true...because since [Children International’s] program came to Guatemala, children and families are living better. I’ve seen it.”

A little more than an hour passed and it was time to say goodbye. As Don Eliseo walked away into his neighborhood leading Jonatan by the hand, I saw a classic silhouette: a loving man tenderly and firmly guiding the footsteps of a small child, just like a real father, a dedicated grandfather, a patient brother...or even like a caring sponsor.