Summary of "What happens when a child called a 'mistake' grows up to lead a movement?"

Podcast Information

• Title: The Candace Cameron Bure Podcast
• Host: Candace Cameron Bure (CandyRock)
• Episode Title: What happens when a child called a "mistake" grows up to lead a movement?
• Release Date: April 22, 2025

Introduction

In this compelling episode of The Candace Cameron Bure Podcast, host Candace Cameron Bure welcomes Jonathan Almonte, a remarkable individual whose life journey epitomizes resilience, faith, and transformational leadership. Best known for his pivotal role in leading a significant movement, Jonathan shares his deeply personal story of overcoming adversity, the impact of sponsorship through Compassion International, and his current endeavors in ministry and business.

Early Life and Struggles with Poverty

Jonathan begins by reflecting on his challenging childhood in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. He provides a nuanced perspective on poverty, highlighting not only the lack of material resources but also the spiritual struggles intertwined within such environments.

Jonathan Almonte [00:26]: "People see poverty as the lack of things like clothes, material things... But there is an aspect of poverty related to the spiritual need all humans have."

Growing up, Jonathan witnessed his mother's battle against homelessness and abuse, a reality that deeply affected his family dynamics. His mother's resilience in the face of abuse and poverty laid the foundation for Jonathan's understanding of hope and perseverance.

Jonathan Almonte [02:15]: "There is this connection of spiritual warfare in poverty that we sometimes don't realize."

The Impact of Compassion International

At the age of seven, Jonathan's life took a pivotal turn when his mother enrolled him in the Compassion International sponsorship program. This decision provided him with much-needed support, including school supplies, meals, and a sense of community.

Jonathan Almonte [22:22]: "When I got into the program in 1997, someone from the church came to our home and said that we got in. It was a blessing that changed my life."

Despite his initial rebellious behavior and struggles to adapt, the consistent support and love from Compassion and his sponsor, Jamie, played a crucial role in his transformation.

Jonathan Almonte [27:10]: "These letters can be very impactful. They made me feel special, known, loved, connected, protected, seen."

Jonathan emphasizes the importance of even minimal engagement, such as writing a few letters a year, to maintain meaningful connections with sponsored children.

Jonathan Almonte [32:10]: "Two letters a year is enough. If you can only write once a year, that's a good number."

Turning Point: Embracing Faith

A significant turning point in Jonathan's life occurred at age twelve after a severe altercation that led to his friend falling into a coma. This event, coupled with the unwavering support from Compassion's director, Dulce, catalyzed his spiritual awakening and commitment to Christ.

Jonathan Almonte [37:05]: "That's the moment I gave my life to Christ. God was so gracious to me that day through Dulce."

His baptism and subsequent involvement in church activities, including preaching to other children, marked the beginning of his mission to help others avoid the pitfalls he once faced.

Reconciliation and Leadership

At fourteen, Jonathan confronted his father, who had previously deemed him a "mistake." This emotional reconciliation not only healed their fractured relationship but also reinforced Jonathan's belief in God's plan for his life.

Jonathan Almonte [45:08]: "I am the best mistake you have ever made."

Today, Jonathan leverages his experiences to lead Compassion's ministry in the Dominican Republic, serving over 65,000 children through partnerships with 235 churches. His role involves connecting donors with local churches, overseeing reports, and ensuring the effective distribution of resources to those in need.

Jonathan Almonte [51:11]: "We are serving 65,000 children throughout the Dominican Republic and partnering with 235 churches."

The Ripple Effect of Sponsorship

Jonathan underscores the profound ripple effect that sponsorship can have, not just on individual lives but also on entire communities. He shares how Compassion's support enabled his mother to overcome poverty and succeed academically, illustrating the transformative power of consistent care and mentorship.

Jonathan Almonte [60:22]: "There is this ripple effect that we don't realize is supporting a child, but supporting a local church. But even a mom, because my mom, while I was attending the church, went to university and she's a professor now."

Candace echoes this sentiment, highlighting the mutual benefits of sponsorship for both the sponsor and the sponsored, and the enduring impact of genuine, sustained support.

Conclusion

Jonathan Almonte's story is a testament to the enduring power of faith, community support, and personal resilience. From being labeled a "mistake" to becoming a leader who positively influences tens of thousands of lives, his journey embodies the podcast’s core message: life is a rollercoaster best navigated together with kindness, class, and purpose.

Candace Cameron Bure [61:14]: "Remember that life is like a roller coaster. But it's better when we go through it together. Together, let's change the world for a whole lot of kids."

Listeners are encouraged to sponsor a child through Compassion, inspired by Jonathan's transformative experience and the tangible difference such support can make.

Notable Quotes:

• Jonathan Almonte [00:26]: "People see poverty as the lack of things like clothes, material things... But there is an aspect of poverty related to the spiritual need all humans have."

• Jonathan Almonte [27:10]: "These letters can be very impactful. They made me feel special, known, loved, connected, protected, seen."

• Jonathan Almonte [37:05]: "That's the moment I gave my life to Christ. God was so gracious to me that day through Dulce."

• Jonathan Almonte [45:08]: "I am the best mistake you have ever made."

• Jonathan Almonte [51:11]: "We are serving 65,000 children throughout the Dominican Republic and partnering with 235 churches."

• Jonathan Almonte [60:22]: "There is this ripple effect that we don't realize is supporting a child, but supporting a local church. But even a mom, because my mom, while I was attending the church, went to university and she's a professor now."

This episode not only sheds light on the pervasive issues of poverty and spiritual struggle but also celebrates the incredible impact that compassionate sponsorship and unwavering faith can achieve. Jonathan Almonte's narrative serves as an inspiration for listeners to engage, support, and transform lives through meaningful connections.