YBLA Serves Belize 2025
People Impacted
Hours Served
Shoes Distributed
Meals Delivered
YBLA Ambassadors and our Black Talent Pipeline served Belize this summer. We worked with God Cares Outreach and Samaritan's Feet to help build our third Belizean home, distribute shoes, deliver food, and engage with locals.
This year’s impact goes beyond construction. Ambassadors led initiatives to support families and uplift local leaders through our Legacy Awards—providing over $1,600 in direct support.
Contributions helped Ms. Heydi—a local Belizean single mother and recipient of our 2024 House Build #2— gain access to electricity and vital medication, supported a family of nine in creating a safer home environment, and provided furnishings for Pastor Fredrick’s new home. Additional service included setting up a computer lab, painting classrooms and fences, hosting a vibrant block party, and speaking at an all-girls conference with over 80 participants.
From washing feet and distributing shoes to leading grassroots efforts of care and compassion, our Ambassadors brought leadership and love to every corner of Belize.
The Why
Pastor Frederick and his wife had been living in unlivable conditions on the Assembly of God property. As they prepared to leave that church due to lack of organizational support, they faced an uncertain future — with nowhere stable to go.
They had been willing to live in the back of the Xperience Church building, using shared facilities from the church and feeding program — a temporary solution that was far from ideal.
Originally, the intention was to bless a single mom from Pastor Frederick’s congregation. But after sitting with him and learning the full extent of his situation, it became clear: this young couple, so committed to lifting up their community, needed support themselves.
Giving them a home became more than a build — it became an investment in leaders who are already changing lives around them.
More Than a Home: A Bigger Vision Unfolding
The space originally renovated for Pastor Frederick and his family at Xperience Church will now serve a greater purpose — it’s being transformed into a resource center that YBLA will outfit with laptops and other tools for the community.
While the new house was under construction, the family remained in their current home temporarily, even requesting an extension from the Assembly of God as they navigated next steps.
As an organization, we’re also working to support them with rental assistance until the home is fully completed — making sure they never go without a safe place to stay.
TRIP #1
Black Talent Pipeline
Participant Highlights
 "My impact moment was meeting a student at Saint Martin’s Primary School who shared my name—Marvin. Hearing his story reminded me of my own childhood. Despite his challenges, his ambition stood out. Washing his feet reminded me of the importance of uplifting children from vulnerable backgrounds." |  "My impact photo is this picture of Psalms 91:4. This was 1 out of 2 verses that I wrote on the house. This verse holds a very special meaning to me because it is a daily verse that reminds me of protection, and it is what I wish for the family moving into the home. I wrote it with the intention of the home to be protected and for the family to thrive, walking in and out of the home." |  "My impact moment was hearing Ms. Gisella’s story. Despite losing her home and raising her kids alone, she continues to serve and uplift the youth. Her strength reminded me to focus less on temporary things and more on building my faith and pouring into others—especially the next generation." |
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TRIP #2
CLT Ambassadors
Participant Highlights
 "This photo captures the moment a few girls ran up to thank me after lunch. I had just helped make empanadas for underprivileged students—many of whom go days without food. As someone who’s received free and reduced lunch myself, it reminded me how powerful a simple meal can be. Their gratitude and excitement touched my heart." |  "This photo captures the heart of my service trip—connecting with Belizean teens during a powerful meet-up. We had real conversations about their dreams, struggles, and goals. Even though we came from different places, we found common ground. This reminded me that service isn’t just physical—it’s about listening, being present, and showing people they matter. One conversation can plant a seed of hope that lasts far beyond the moment." |  "This picture captures the best part about service: seeing the smiles on the faces of the ones impacted. This moment reminded me that simple acts of kindness can deeply impact someone. It reminded me why service matters: not because we change lives in grand ways, but because we show up with heart. I remember seeing how excited she was to get her new pair of shoes, it really warmed my heart, seeing how i made such an impact on her day. I'll never forget the joy this day brought me" |
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TRIP #3
ATL Ambassadors
Participant Highlights
 "I chose this photo because it marks the moment my perspective shifted. During the home visits, every person I met radiated love and strength. Their stories made me reflect on my own life and the things I’ve taken for granted. They became my motivation to work harder and live with more purpose. I may not have been there long, but in every smile and story, I found a sense of home." |  "This photo is from our visit with Mr. Felipe at London Bridges. From the moment we arrived, his kindness and positivity were contagious. He shared how he and three friends built the community from swamp land and how, even with a knee injury, he still repairs the bridge on his own. His determination to create a better environment for others was deeply inspiring. Meeting him gave me a new appreciation for resilience, joy, and the power of community." |  "During the house build, I wrote lyrics from a gospel song that meant a lot to me when I first started my walk with Christ. That song reminded me that Jesus isn’t just someone to call on in hard times—He’s a constant friend and foundation. Writing those words on the wall wasn’t just a gesture; it was leaving a piece of faith behind. It was my way of saying, “This house, and my life, is built on Him.” |
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TRIP #4
CLT Ambassadors
Participant Highlights
 "This picture reminds me of the power of showing up and serving. My first time out of the country opened my eyes to new perspectives and a vibrant culture. It taught me humility and gratitude, especially seeing how the Belizean community thrives with limited resources. Building a home through hands-on work was challenging but rewarding. I'm truly thankful to our organization for the opportunity to serve and connect with our Belizean family." |  "This photo was taken on day one, right after we landed. I was handed a shovel and spent hours filling a trench in the heat, which didn’t feel impactful at the time. But by the house dedication, I realized every small, tiring task mattered. We weren’t just building a house—we were answering Pastor Fredrick’s prayers. Belize showed me that impact isn’t always loud. Sometimes it’s showing up, sharing laughs, or just being present. There’s growth in the hard things and love in the simple moments." |  "This picture captures my “why.” Mrs. Leverne, a principal in Belize, shared how American influence has led to a loss of humility in kids. Her words made me reflect on how even our smallest actions can leave lasting impact. This trip reminded me that service isn’t just about what we do abroad. It’s how we live every day. So I ask: Who will you be, and what impact will you make?” |
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