OUR CAMPUS IN QUITO
Agua Viva: Where Children Find Safety and Hope
In Quito, Ecuador, children and families find safety, healing, and hope on our campus every day — a place where they are seen, safe, and loved.
We call it Agua Viva — Living Water.
Why Agua Viva Exists
When we first came to Ecuador, our mission was simple: to love God and serve the people. But over time, that calling deepened — we didn't just want to serve the community; we wanted to serve with it.
In 2012, what was once an abandoned orphanage became something new. Today, Agua Viva is a multi-purpose campus where children and families experience holistic care, education, and mentoring every day. It is also where the THRIVE Model was shaped through daily practice.
The Need
When we began, the families around Agua Viva faced real and heavy challenges — deep poverty, hunger, and too little access to health care and safe support. At the time, the reality looked like:
80% families live below the poverty line*
31% of children suffer from malnutrition*
Many are unable to read
Preventable health issues often go untreated
Some children are forced into labor at a young age
Many children have experienced physical or sexual abuse
*Community baseline at founding (2012).
Behind these statistics are real children—growing up without the safety, care, and support they need to thrive.
WHAT WE DO AT AGUA VIVA
A holistic, evidence-based model that’s changing lives
Chronic poverty and adversity create a ripple effect that touches every part of a child’s life. Through our THRIVE model, we care for the whole child—physically, emotionally, relationally, and spiritually—so they can grow strong inside and out.
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Nutrition & Health
Providing healthy meals, clean water, medical care, and emergency suppor — the steady ground a child needs before anything else becomes possible.
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Education
Supporting learning through after school enrichment programs, life skills training, and discipleship curriculum.
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Healthy Relationships
Teaching children and families their rights and worth while modeling healthy, trusting relationships through mentorship and community initiatives.
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Spiritual Development
Creating opportunities for spiritual growth through weekly Bible studies, Vacation Bible School, and the truth that every child is made in God's image — seen, treasured, and never alone.
Amigos Child Sponsorship
Walk with one child at Agua Viva.
Become an Amigo — a steady, praying friend to one child growing up in the daily care of our campus. You'll exchange letters, receive photos, and pray for a child by name. Many Amigos first meet their child in person on a visit to Agua Viva.
$30 a month
Sponsor a Child →
OUR LOCAL TEAM
Experienced. Compassionate. Committed.
Agua Viva is led by a dedicated team committed to the holistic care of every child, bringing deep expertise in trauma-informed care and child development.
They are supported by local seminary interns who serve alongside them, gaining hands-on experience while investing in the lives of children and families. Together, they combine professional training, local leadership, and long-term commitment to create safe, consistent relationships where children can thrive.
Expanding our impact across Latin America and beyond
What began at Agua Viva is now reaching far beyond it.
Our THRIVE model is now being shared with leaders, churches, nonprofits, and ministries around the world.
Through training, tools, and ongoing support, we’re equipping leaders to create safe, healing environments where children can grow, thrive, and experience lasting transformation.
