Jorges' story

A passion for voluntary work and a vision of a society free of injustice are the driving force behind Jorges’ involvement in the YMCA's civic empowerment project in Honduras.

Jorges first got involved with the civic empowerment project run by the YMCA when he was finishing his studies at secondary school. When he graduated, he began to volunteer on their impact and training events aimed at young people. "Young people are the YMCA’s prime focus, and the opportunities they provide for us to progress and broaden our perspective on life are what I like best."

Jorges has participated on a national level, through his involvement in the dissemination of a youth law framework - legislation that specifically takes account of the rights of young people in Honduran society – and celebrations for the International day for Youth. “These are things that build up young people up and motivate them to care for the world around them. There are young people that have a desire for change in Honduras and they are willing to work for it.”

Without this experience, Jorges expects that he would have remained ignorant of the injustice faced by many in Honduras. “I am happy to be in an environment where the values that prevail are the desire to improve, and to inspire young people in Honduras to actively participate in society, raising expectations and challenging oppressive situations.”

For Jorges, the YMCA offers an education that cannot be found in any of Honduras' traditional institutions. “I know through the YMCA that there are organisations who have faith in young people. With this knowledge we can truly be agents of change within our society.”