Situated in the northwestern corner of South America, Colombia is rich in natural beauty, comprising rugged Andean mountains, lowland plains, sprawling Amazon rainforest, and coastline on both the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea. Archeological evidence suggests that humans have called this land home for thousands of years. Its modern history begins at the end of the fifteenth century, when Christopher Columbus and the first Spanish explorers arrived in the region, subsequently establishing the area’s first successful Spanish settlement in 1508. Spanish colonization continued for over 400 years. In the mid-nineteenth century, Colombia gained its independence and established itself as South America’s first constitutional government. However, political instability in the mid- to late-twentieth century led to the uprising of guerilla groups which have wreaked havoc through all manner of social injustice. Tragically, their targets are most often children. Kidnappings, human trafficking, recruitment as soldiers into paramilitary groups and forcible participation in drug-trafficking rings are all too common realities for vulnerable and disadvantaged children here.

For this reason, Centro Primavera serves as a beacon of hope and a safe haven. Located in the large, industrial city of Medellín, this community center fills multiple roles, serving as a daycare and an afterschool enrichment center. While children receive nutritious food, medical care and skills training, working mothers savor peace of mind knowing that their children are safe, well cared for and receiving the guidance and encouragement they need to become productive citizens. By looking to immediate needs while providing the foundation for a brighter future, the center’s mission is to help these deserving families rise above the difficult socioeconomic circumstances from which they come.