One Life at a Time

Back2Back Ministries has a saying, "be the difference for one." This is borne from the organization's conviction of the transformative power of one loving person present in the life of one orphan. The vision is for the 165 million orphaned children in the world, one by one, through the presence of local caregivers, to experience restoration to a life of purpose in which they can become fulfilled and mature Christian adults.

The following is a story of such a life, shared in a recent update from the Mazatlan ministry.



Perla completed her tasks at the restaurant where she works. She removed her apron and clocked out, ready to return home. As she waited for her ride, she considered the work she had done that day and felt a desire to do more. Perla had completed elementary and middle school, working hard to overcome academic obstacles with the help of her Hope House Parents, Gennie and Jorge Castro. She felt a desire within her to give back to others the way she had been given. Gennie arrived to pick her up, and as they drove home she shared her hope to serve in a different way. Gennie had an idea of how she could do just that.

Even though she is a Hope Program student, Perla went through the training to become a volunteer with Back2Back. She prayed the Lord would lead her to the children’s home she would best serve, and He quickly answered. Perla currently leads nurture groups at Rancho de los Niños Children’s Home. She has become a consistent presence, going every week, and making connections with the children. Ricky, a 22-year old who lives at the home, is blind and cannot speak, but quickly developed a connection to Perla. The staff noticed how caring she is with Ricky, helping him get around the house and sitting with him are two ways Perla shows Ricky he is seen and loved.

Ricky’s special needs have made attending school regularly a challenge, but Perla has volunteered part of her time to attending school with him. This new adventure has allowed Ricky to get out more, learn new things, and meet new people. Both Perla and Ricky are growing in confidence as they learn they are capable of not just receiving care and love, but offering it to those around them.

Perla continues to volunteer at Rancho de los Niños as she gratefully recalls all the care given to her and faithfully returns it to the children in the home.