God’s Goodness

by Erick Flores, Ministry Apprentice

Migrating to a new country without knowing any English, adjusting to a completely different environment and culture — that is a huge change that can easily discourage someone. But it can definitely surprise you how comfortable and confident you can become in the United States in just one year. Today, I will be talking about Elian Heredia and the huge impact he has made at Mission Adelante.

Elian Heredia is from Venezuela, a country located in South America. He sought refuge in the United States with his parents in late 2024. When I first met him, he was naturally shy, quiet, and sometimes hard to motivate. However, Elian has always carried a deep passion for singing and has big dreams of using his voice in powerful ways one day. Music has become one of the ways he expresses himself and builds confidence.

Elian was invited to our programs quite often, but he found it difficult to stay motivated to keep coming because he was very shy, and we assumed it was due to a language barrier. However, last summer, Elian and his friends began attending Youth Club regularly, and soon Elian developed a voice that never seemed to have an off switch.

Elian’s English has improved tremendously, and he is now our most involved participant here at Mission Adelante. He challenges himself every day to speak and learn English. He even refuses to speak Spanish during conversations. He is an LTP participant who volunteers in two of our kids’ programs, participates in Youth Club, and is a member of our Latino Church. He is passionate about learning more about God and His work. Staying four nights a week at Mission Adelante is a huge commitment, but for Elian, it’s a piece of cake.

I am very proud of all the work Elian has put in, not only to be a consistent participant but also to be a mentor to the younger kids he oversees in his volunteer roles. God clearly has a well-written plan for Elian and his future, and I know He will continue opening pathways for him.

Elian Heredia — please continue being amazing. You are such a bright light in our ministry. Thank you for all you do!

Key Dates in 2026

Trimester 1

Join us for Un Lugar en La Mesa, a culinary fundraising event, happening on Friday, March 27th at 5pm.
- Click here to learn more and sign up.