A journey marked by care, commitment, and purpose
In 2004, Abel joined Forever Changed International and began what would become more than 22 years of service. Today, he looks back with gratitude on the many lives he has been able to impact during his time at FCI. Over the years, Abel has watched generations of children grow up. He remembers when there were many babies at FCI and recalls seeing Brian and Ulises as young children. Watching them grow into young adults has been one of the most rewarding parts of his job.
Before joining Forever Changed International, Abel worked in the United States, where he learned English. That experience helped him connect with people from different backgrounds and gave him skills he would later use at FCI.
As a father of three, Abel understands how important it is for children and teenagers to know someone cares about them. His approach has always been simple: be present, listen, and offer advice when needed.
Many people know Abel as the person behind the wheel, but his role is much bigger than that. He helps host mission teams and spends much of his day making sure our children get where they need to go safely. From school and medical appointments to special activities, Abel is often the one helping make it all happen.
Spending so much time with the children has helped him understand them well. He knows that teenagers sometimes need space. When they ride the bus and want to keep to themselves, he respects that. At the same time, he looks for opportunities to encourage and guide them.
“The young people respect me, and I respect them too,” Abel said. “I give them their space and treat them with respect. Most of all, I try to guide them. Since I have children of my own, I encourage young people to be respectful.” When asked what he values most about working at Forever Changed, Abel quickly answered: the people. “Honestly, I’m very grateful,” he said. “Especially to Heather, Mrs. Ale, and Selvyn. They have been kind leaders and have treated me well.” That appreciation goes both ways. When asked what she values most about Abel, our director, Alejandra, spoke about his faithfulness to the ministry. Through every challenge and every season of change, Abel has remained committed to the mission and to the children we serve.
As he gets closer to retirement, Abel looks back on his career with gratitude. He is thankful to have spent the final years of his working life at Forever Changed, doing work that has purpose and meaning. For more than two decades, Abel has been a steady and caring presence for the children, staff, and families of Forever Changed. His story reminds us that making a difference doesn’t always happen through big moments. Sometimes it happens by showing up every day, caring for others, and faithfully serving year after year.