
Hosted by Project Mexico · EN

What does it truly mean to serve in a non-profit? In this episode of Stories of Hope, we sit down with Anastasia Oliver — a long-term Casa Cuna team member — for an honest, unfiltered conversation about life on the front lines of mission work. Drawing from years of experience across both the United States and Mexico, Anastasia shares the complex realities, quiet victories, and hard-won lessons that shape this work every day. Whether you're a seasoned advocate or simply curious about the world of non-profit service, this episode offers a rare and grounded perspective from someone who has lived it. Get to know one of the passionate people behind Casa Cuna — and walk away with a deeper understanding of the world we're all working to improve.

Alejandro grew up as an orphan at Project Mexico — now he's returned as a husband, alongside his wife Evangeline, to serve the very community that shaped him. In this episode, the newlyweds share what it's like to begin their marriage not in comfort, but in calling — living on the ranch at St. Innocent Orphanage, pouring themselves out for infants, toddlers, and boys who need a glimpse of what love really looks like. From Evangeline's tender and challenging work with the babies at Casa Cuna San Felipe to Alejandro's daily life alongside the niños, their story is one of humility, joy, and choosing to trust God again and again. Together, they're discovering that marriage isn't just a relationship — it's a witness. And in a place where so many children have never seen a healthy, loving home, that witness matters more than words. Tune in for a beautiful conversation about sacrificial love, faith stretched thin and made stronger, and what it means to let God write the first chapter of your life together.

In this episode of Stories of Hope, Hannah Petker shares about her time serving at Casa Cuna after traveling from British Columbia, Canada. During her short-term stay over the holiday season, Hannah embraced life in Tijuana, building meaningful relationships with the children and community at Project Mexico. Tune in for a casual and lighthearted conversation about faith, service, and what it’s like to serve at St. Innocent Orphanage during a special time of year.

This episode of Stories of Hope offers a heartfelt glimpse into a love story that began in Mexico through shared mission work. Boone and Anna reflect on the past year of their lives—one marked by service, growth, and a deepening commitment to one another. Brought together while building homes and serving alongside Project Mexico, their relationship was shaped and strengthened through daily life on mission. As they prepare to step into their next chapter, Boone and Anna share how faith, service, and community laid the foundation for both their work and their life together. This episode is a celebration of vocation, love, and the unexpected ways mission work can transform lives.

This episode of Stories of Hope takes you behind the scenes of Casa Cuna San Felipe to answer the most frequently asked questions about the home and its mission. While our other episodes explore personal journeys and emotional moments, this conversation focuses on the practical, everyday realities of the work happening inside the Casa Cuna. The role of the caregivers is truly unique—intensive, compassionate, and central to the success of the home. Thanks to the insight of Evangeline Zendejas, listeners gain a clearer understanding of the rhythms, responsibilities, and heartfelt dedication that shape daily life for the children and staff. We are deeply grateful for the incredible people who make this mission possible. If you’d like to support our work and help us continue caring for those who need it most, please visit our website: https://www.projectmexico.org/

In this episode of Stories of Hope, we sit down with Qaedan Kerr, former intern and long-term staff member at Project Mexico and St. Innocent Orphanage. Qaedan shares where his journey began before arriving at the ranch, what daily life in Mexico looks like throughout the year, and how community, faith, and service shape his work. We also explore ranch dynamics, future plans, and the side projects that support the mission. Get to know one of Casa Cuna’s most dedicated caregivers and a beloved member of the Project Mexico community in Tijuana.

In this episode of Stories of Hope, California native Wyatt West shares his inspiring journey from volunteer and intern to long-term staff member at Project Mexico. Hear how his time serving in Mexico deepened his faith, strengthened his compassion, and led him back to a community he now calls home. Wyatt’s story is a testament to living out service with joy and purpose.

In this Stories of Hope episode, volunteer Nicholas Legakis shares insights from his three summer mission trips with Project Mexico. From building homes to deepening his faith at Hellenic College Holy Cross, Nicholas reflects on how each experience has shaped his life, studies, and commitment to serving others.

Zelda Gilbert: Faith, Service, and Growing Through Leadership In this inspiring episode of Stories of Hope, we sit down with Zelda Gilbert, a Hillsdale College student who has spent the past two summers serving as a Project Mexico intern. From her first introduction to the program to her recent role as a site leader, Zelda has become a beloved part of the ranch community. She shares how her background prepared her for this unique mission experience, and how her summers in Mexico have deepened her faith, strengthened her leadership skills, and given her a greater vision for service. Zelda’s story highlights the transformative impact of volunteering—not only for the families receiving homes but also for the young leaders who step forward to build them. Tune in to hear Zelda’s reflections on community, growth, and what it means to live out your faith in service to others.

In this episode of Stories of Hope, we sit down with Mark Fridell, longtime supporter and board member of Project Mexico. Mark has played a key role in our homebuilding mission trips for many years, and his deep commitment to our work shines through in this heartfelt conversation. Hear how his life was transformed by serving others, what inspires him to give back, and what leadership looks like behind the scenes at Project Mexico. Whether you're a first-time volunteer or a longtime friend of the ministry, this episode offers a meaningful glimpse into the people and purpose behind our mission. 🎧 Listen now and be inspired by Mark’s story of faith, service, and hope. Would you like a shorter version for platforms like Spotify or YouTube?