A Fresh Start

Hello everyone!

If you haven’t had a chance to read, Questions that Lead to Confirmation, please do so. 

As I mentioned earlier, I currently live and serve full-time in Guatemala. I’m in the process of starting a new nonprofit organization to serve the same community I’ve been working with for the past three years. 

New Beginnings

On Friday, January 9^th, I returned to Guatemala full of excitement, joy, and energy, ready to get the ball rolling. From January 12^th through the 16^th, my coworker and I met to discuss the programs we wanted to continue and the goals we had for the organization. We were thrilled to continue some of the programs and start new projects in the community. 

Slowly, we began to work and become more present in the village. We set up a schedule, and it was so nice to communicate daily about our activities. Maintaining open communication, listening to one another, and staying on the same page is essential in this line of work. 

Since we were in the village almost every day, it took a toll on us physically, mentally, and emotionally. Serving a community requires a significant investment of time and it often feels like you’re constantly on the go. 

Because children seek your attention, parents approach you for support- whether for projects or financial assistance- and at the same time, we had other responsibilities to complete each day. We did our best to manage everything, but we were starting to burn out quickly. 

We knew it wouldn’t be easy, but now we know the importance of rest and spending time with Jesus for strength, while continuing to rely on His timing. 

The Standstill

As I began to navigate this new season of my life, I found myself facing another difficult situation that was completely out of my control.

While I was home for Christmas, I worked on gathering the remaining information the lawyer needed to officially begin the nonprofit process. On January 7^th, I dropped off all the materials. She told me it would take a few weeks to submit everything. After that, she would contact me about obtaining a tax ID number, and then I could begin opening bank accounts and reaching out to supporters. 

Weeks went by, and there were no updates regarding the status of the nonprofit. To be honest, we had to temporarily pause one program—the grocery sponsorship program. Ultimately, there was nowhere for people to donate, and families in both the United States and Guatemala began asking for updates. Unfortunately, there was nothing I could do, but I promised to let them know as soon as I heard back from the lawyer.

It was, and continues to be, tough because I feel like many people are relying on me, yet my hands have been tied. I reached out to the lawyer several times but didn’t hear anything back for about two months. I began to question whether I needed to find a new lawyer… The hardest part was the uncertainty- whether anything had been submitted- especially knowing that people are relying on me. 

But thankfully, within the past couple of weeks, I’ve been in touch with the lawyer and have scheduled an appointment for when I’m home in April.

Philippians 4:6- “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”

Conclusion

Since January, I’ve learned a lot. There have been highs and lows. In February, I second-guessed many decisions and thought to myself, “Maybe they were right. This is too much- what am I doing?” But over time, listening to worship music and podcasts, and reading the Bible I gained reassurance and peace that I’m right where I’m supposed to be. 

Ultimately, I know the enemy does not want this organization to flourish, and he is trying to distract me any way he can. He knows that lives will be transformed- and I promise you, I’m already seeing lives change right before my eyes. It’s a beautiful thing to witness, and my goals remains that others see Jesus in me. 

Thank you for reading and following my journey. I hope it inspires you to grow in your faith, and I give God all the thanks for every step along the way.

Romans 11:36- “For from Him and through Him and for Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever! Amen.” 

XOXO,

Madison Archer

P.S- A few weeks ago, my best friend, my mom, her best friends traveled to Guatemala to visit me for a week. It meant the world to me and it allowed them to see my life here in Guatemala. What a typically week looks like, why I moved here, and the passion I have for the work I do. It was truly an unforgettable experience and something I will cherish forever. 

P.P.S- As soon as everything is confirmed and the 501(c)(3) status is established, I plan to open bank accounts and send letters to all supporters with updated information. Please continue to be patient and know that I am working hard to complete everything as quickly as possible. Thank you for your prayers and support.