Like many children shaped by early trauma, Ramon* learned to hide big feelings behind silence and anger. His world felt small, defined by survival rather than self-understanding, and he often believed he had to navigate life alone. Without intervention, Ramon could have stayed on that path, internalizing the message that his emotions were too big, his dreams too distant, and his mistakes too defining.

But everything changed when Back2Back staff first met with his family. Through the Strong Families Program in Cancún, Ramon and his family received trauma-informed care, counseling, and consistent support. Step by step, their home stabilized; their relationships strengthened. Hope grew where fear once lived.

When he entered the Transition to Independence Program, a new chapter began. This program, fueled by donor generosity, became the hinge in his story, opening a path from confusion to clarity, from isolation to leadership.

“Ramon initially seems reserved and rarely speaks up,” shared Back2Back staff. “But as he’s opened up, it’s clear he’s a young man with depth, and he’s beginning to see his own value.”

Today, he is pursuing his degree in Software Development and Management Engineering. In eight months, he will be a university graduate. Staff often reflect on who he was when they first met him, and who he is now. What stands out most is his maturity, insight, and the wisdom that now shapes each decision. 

Those qualities have made him a natural mentor to younger students beginning their own university journeys. He describes himself as a critical thinker and patient problem solver – strengths nurtured through consistent care, accountability, and encouragement.

At a recent devotional, he shared openly with peers, “Pride once kept me from embracing opportunities. But with humility, we can dare to seek extraordinary avenues for our lives.”

Ramon’s influence now reaches far beyond Back2Back’s community center. At his university, he serves as President of the Student Council, multiplying the impact of what he’s learned and lived. He sets goals for every area of his life and works with remarkable discipline to achieve them.

Around the world, Back2Back staff meet children whose beginnings resemble Ramon’s – young people shaped by hard stories and harmful belief systems whispering they are unworthy of success. What sets him apart is the way he faced these challenges head-on, refusing to allow trauma to define him. He chose growth; he chose resilience. And he now champions those choices for others.

When vulnerable young adults receive the holistic support they need, they discover a truth donors help make possible: your past may inform you, but it does not have to define what comes next. 

Today, Ramon knows what he’s capable of, and he is determined to help others discover the same confidence and hope.

Young adults like Ramon are standing at a crossroads every day. Your partnership opens the door that leads them toward healing, education, leadership, and a future they can be proud of.