About Us
We envision a world where every child, regardless of their background or circumstances, has equal opportunities to thrive, realize their potential, and become contributing members of their communities.
Our Mission
Our mission is to provide “a chance in life” to marginalized and at-risk young people around the world, empowering them through our unique approach of Positive Youth Development. We are committed to creating lasting changes in the lives of children and their communities to break the cycle of poverty.
Our Values
Our Vision G
Gratitude: Serving almost 6,000 children in 12 countries around the world is possible solely through the generosity of our supporters. Our gratitude for those who make our work possible – from our donors and volunteers to our Partners – underscores everything we do.
Respect: From our interactions with supporters to our programs for children, we are led by our respect for the inherent dignity of each person, and their capacity to make a difference in the world.
Openness: Our mission has blessed A Chance In Life with the opportunity to work with people from all walks of life. Our openness to new perspectives and partnerships continues to enable us to serve at-risk youth around the world with care and compassion
Welcoming: Embracing global mindsets, celebrating diversity, and cultivating inclusivity strengthens the work of our staff, board, and programs.
Transparency: We are proud to have earned the highest possible ratings in Accountability & Transparency from Charity Navigator and Guidestar, the foremost charity evaluators in the United States. We work hard to always be 100% worthy of your trust.
Humor: Laughter is a universal language that uplifts spirits, creates connections, and promotes well-being. We recognize the importance of bringing laughter and joy to our work.
A Note from our President/CEO
Dear Friends and Supporters,
As I reflect on the past year, a particular moment stands out that perfectly encapsulates the magic we strive to create at A Chance In Life, thanks to your amazing support. Earlier this year, I had the privilege of visiting Girls’ Town in Pala, Kerala. The girls were in the midst of their school summer break, a time that is usually filled with family gatherings and joyous activities. However, for these young souls, there were no families to return to. Determined to bring a smile to their faces, I decided to share a bit of magic quite literally. Gathered in a modest room, their eyes sparkled with curiosity as I began performing simple magic tricks. Laughter and amazement filled the air as each trick unfolded, transforming an ordinary day into an extraordinary memory. The wonder in their eyes was a powerful reminder of the real magic we can achieve together. This magic is not in the tricks themselves, but in the ability to bring joy, hope, and a sense of belonging to those who need it most. That is what you make possible!
Thanks to your generosity, this year we worked in 12 countries, serving almost 6,000 children. Our collaborative efforts with 37 partners have enabled us to provide essential services such as quality education, nutritional support, and healthcare to at-risk youth around the globe One of our significant achievements this year was the continued success of The Village, our youth center in New York City In 2023, we served 157 underprivileged youth and provided food and essential services to 2,157 households The Village has become a beacon of hope for many, addressing critical needs in a community where poverty rates surpass the city average Our impact extends beyond the numbers. It's about the individual lives transformed the young girl in Ethiopia who now dreams of becoming a doctor, the teenager in Colombia who found her voice through our leadership program, and the family in Staten Island who no longer worries about their next meal.
Gabriele Delmonaco sharing a bit of magic with children at Girls’ Town in Pala, Kerala, India
As we look forward to the future, we remain committed to our mission of empowering marginalized and at-risk youth. Our journey continues, and with your support, the magic we create is very real. Together, we are breaking the cycle of poverty and creating lasting change. Thank you for believing in our mission and for making our work possible. Let's continue to create magic together. Insieme tutto è possibile. Together anything is possible
Warm regards,
Gabriele Delmonaco President/CEO
Our Story
In 1945, an Irish priest named Monsignor John Patrick Carroll-Abbing envisioned youth centers that would provide "a chance in life" to homeless children living on the streets in the aftermath of World War II. He believed that if young people were supported and empowered to take responsibility for their lives and communities, they would grow into caring, self-sufficient adults. These centers, known as “towns,” allowed youth to take active roles in running the day-to-day activities of the centers where they lived. This unique approach, called ‘self-government,’ has been a cornerstone of success at the Monsignor's centers.
Today, we continue the mission of offering “a chance in life” by using the Positive Youth Development approach to empower poor, indigenous, refugee, migrant, and at-risk youth. In the last decade, A Chance In Life has expanded its support to South Asia, Northeast Africa, and Latin America.
Almost 80 years since our founding, we remain dedicated to serving at-risk young people. Through partnerships with local organizations, we provide opportunities to orphans, indigenous children, and those from low-income backgrounds who lack access to sufficient nutrition, healthcare, well-being services, and quality educational opportunities. By embracing the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, we ensure that we continue serving those left behind and creating lasting change in their lives.
FoundingandEarlyYears(1945-1957)
August 13, 1945: Marked the founding of The Boys' Republic in Civitavecchia, Italy by Msgr Carroll-Abbing for orphans of WWII
une 4, 1951: Boys' Towns of Italy, Inc was incorporated in the USA
October 6, 1953: First stone was placed at Boy anuary 15, 1957: Girls’ Town opened in Rom
RecognitionandGrowth(1987-1988)
June 4, 1987: Msgr Carroll-Abbing was named an honorary citizen of Rome.
February 11, 1988: Msgr. Carroll-Abbing was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize.
AChanceInLife(2015)
October 5, 2015: Organization was renamed "A Chance In Life" to reflect its vision for international expansion
Ethiopia(2015)
June 16, 2015: Partnered with local organizations in Ethiopia to address the needs of children in one of the poorest countries in the world.
India(2016)
June 7, 2016: Partnered with local organizations in India, supporting at-risk youth
LatinAmerica(2018)
June 12, 2018: Expanded to Latin America, welcoming partners in Guatemala, Colombia, Peru, and Bolivia
TheVillageinNewYorkCity(2020)
December 1, 2020: Opened first US-based program in New York City, called The Village. This drop-in youth center carries on our founder’s vision in a unique and innovative way.
NewPartnerships(2020-present)
February 6, 2020: Partnered with a local organization in Uganda
January 15, 2021: Partnered with local organizations in Mexico.
March 4, 2022: Partnered with a local organization in Palestine.
April 29, 2022: Partnered with local organizations in Venezuela
Our Impact
In 2023, A Chance In Life served nearly 6,000 at-risk youth countries through our partnerships with 37 local organizati around the world and our local program in New York City - T Village. Together with our international partners, we worke foster brighter futures with access to quality education, nutritional services, healthcare, and well-being programs. A The Village, we empowered 157 underprivileged youth and support their community with access to essential resources.
5,993
37
12
157 Youth Participants
2,851 Households Served
108,490 Poundsoffood distributed
Our Approach: Positive Youth Development
Positive Youth Development (PYD) aligns with our founder’s vision, promoting holistic growth by focusing on Competence, Confidence, Connection, Character, and Caring/Compassion, ultimately leading to Contribution to self, family, community, and society.
Inspired by Monsignor Carroll-Abbing's success in Rome, where children participated in self-government, A Chance In Life adopted Positive Youth Development as our core approach. By implementing PYD, we establish a robust scientific framework that standardizes our programs and work with at-risk youth, ensuring a consistent and impactful approach across diverse communities and cultures.
Lerner, R. M. (2009).
Advancing the Sustainable Development Goals
As a nonprofit with active Consultative Status at the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), we are proud to advance the Sustainable Development Goals.
The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, endorsed by all United Nations Member States in 2015, serves as a collective roadmap for ensuring peace and prosperity for people and the planet. Central to this agenda are the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which urgently call for action from all nations – both developed and developing – through a global alliance. The goals emphasize that eradicating poverty and other forms o deprivation must be accompanied by efforts to enhance health and education, diminish inequality, stimulate economic growth, address climate change, and safeguard our oceans and forests. Building on years of collaboration between countries and the UN, including the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs, the SDGs aim to mobilize diverse stakeholders to achieve the global goals and bring the 2030 Agenda to life.
The Village
Our first US-based youth center in New York City
At The Village, we harness the power of Positive Youth Development to provide holistic programming to young people and the community on the North Shore of Staten Island. Since 2020, our programs and strategic partnerships have empowered young people with access to tutoring, educational programs, leadership workshops, financial literacy courses, arts and culture classes, and more.
Meet Laila
The Youth Leadership Workshop (YLW) offers youth life skills and professional development through workshops by industry leaders and a competitive summit, fostering Positive Youth Development
The Summer Youth Success Academy (SYSA) connects youth with career exploration and paid work experiences, developing workplace skills, civic engagement, and leadership abilities.
English as Second Language (ESL) for immigrant youth and families enhances communication skills, confidence, and integration into the community for improved personal and professional outcomes.
The Village Free Market Food Pantry provides a dignified "supermarket experience" for families, with nutritious food choices and promotes empathy, support, and community well-being
Community Activities and Events at The Village offer a space for collaboration with local nonprofits, fostering community engagement, cultural diversity, and a sense of belonging and purpose.
Why The North Shore of Staten Island?
Despite being a global financial hub, New York City has areas like the North Shore of Staten Island where the poverty rate is 21%, exceeding the city average. This area lacks programs for vulnerable youth, leading to significant educational inequities.
An 11th grade student in Staten Island
Laila received the Silver Innovator Award at the Youth Leadership Workshop (YLW) Summit for her exceptional involvement and progress during the 10-week program.
"I attended the 2024 Spring cohort YLW, where I gained insights into workplace power dynamics and crafting tailored resumes, essential for job seekers I recommend this valuable program to fellow junior and senior students for its practical skills."
BOLIVIA
Thesituationofchildren
433
According to UNICEF, children and adolescents represent 33% of the population in Bolivia. Amo the main issues facing youth are endemic viole against children and a notable lack of access to education system. The proportion of school-ag children not receiving education rose from 4% 18% post-pandemic. Furthermore, 90% of rura households in Bolivia lack internet connectivity and one in six adolescents aged 15 to 19 is alread mother or pregnant for the first time.
Wepartnerwithfourlocalorganizationsin Cochabamba,Beni,andSantaCruzto supportdisadvantagedyouthwholack opportunities.
Theimpactfulworkwesupport
MELANIA
In Bolivia, we collaborate with four partner organizations, supporting 433 children, including 204 girls and 229 boys, from diverse backgrounds in Cochabamba, Beni, and Santa Cruz. Operating in urban and rural areas, our partners address challenges related to education, healthcare, and nutrition, offering accommodation, quality education, healthcare services, nutrition, and skills development, including digital literacy and vocational training
Fundación Ñombori
Opaetepegua, Santa Cruz, Bolivia
Melania,a17-year-old fromChipiriri–Chapare,faced violenceand abandonmentat home.Afterfinding supportatResidencia EstudiantilLuise,she improved academically, socially,and emotionally.The residenceoffers stability,academic support,emotional healing,and entrepreneurialskills tohelpyouthlike Melaniaovercome adversityandbuild promisingfutures.
COLOMBIA
Thesituationofchildren
Colombia's children and adolescents, 30% population, face significant challenges. A legacy of armed conflict persists, with UN reporting over 16,000 children recruited b groups since 1990. Alarming rates of viole systemic issues further disadvantage thes people, with millions lacking access to pro nutrition, clean water, and sanitation. Edu , critical path forward, is also disrupted by conflict, as evidenced by the over 12,000 children unable to
attend school in 2022 (Observatory of Childhood and Armed Conflict). These realities underscore the urgent need for continued support to ensure a brighter future for Colombia's next generation.
Daniela,age16,comes fromabackgroundof extremepoverty. Alongsideheridentical twinsister,shehascalled AldeaPabloVIin Medellinhomesincethe
DANIELA
Fundación Hogar del Niño, Medellin, Colombia.
ETHIOPIA
Thesituationofchildren
Wepartnerwiththreelocalorganizations workingwithdisadvantagedyouthacross Ethiopia.
Theimpactfulworkwesupport
Rehimush,auniversity studentinAddisAbaba, Ethiopia,overcame educationalchallenges throughtheFIDA program.Asamentor, shehostedaworkshop onself-confidence, reflectingonher growth.Rehimushplans topursuefurther educationabroadafter graduation.
University and College Girls’ Support project in Ethiopia
GUATEMALA
Thesituationofchildren
Guatemala faces significant challenges in ensuring well-being of its youth, who comprise nearly 40% o the population A critical issue is malnutrition, with country recording the highest rate in Latin America 2020 alone, there were over 27,000 cases–an incre of 12,000 from the previous year. Deep educational disparities with low enrollment rates in rural indigenous communities are also an obstacle. Furthermore, illiteracy remains a significant challenge, with a national rate of 18.5%. The gender gap in literacy persists, disproportionately affecting women at at 21%, compared to 15% for men.
Alexander,age18,is theonlychildofa singlemother.He comesfromasmall ALEXANDER
INDIA
Thesituationofchildren
Although India has made significant strides in reducing extreme poverty and infant mortality, the country continues to grapple with malnutrition, poor learning outcomes, and a gender imbalance in child mortality. Rural and urban poverty, particularly among girls, exacerbates these challenges. These children face multiple deprivations related to nutrition, child marriage, and violence.
OursixpartnersinKeralaandGujarat statesprovideholisticservicestothe mostvulnerableyouth.
Theimpactfulworkwesupport
In India, we collaborate with six local organizations serving 520 children, including 203 girls and 317 boys. Our partners offer residential care, education, nutrition, and healthcare services, fostering a secure environment for
In2021,13-year-old Mrudhulafoundsupportat ourprogram.Previously facingchallenges,she receivedmedicalattention, nutritiousmeals,and educationalassistance.The program’sholisticapproach transformedherlife.Her healthimproved,enabling consistentschool attendance.Withacademic support,Mrudhulathrived inherstudies.Beyond academics,sheactively participatedinsports, showcasingwell-rounded development.
Shri Sachidanand Boarding House, Rajkot, India
ITALY
3
Thesituationofchildren
163
UNICEF reports that in Italy 94% of unaccompanied refugee and migrant children under 18 reside in isolated reception centers. T raises the urgent need for alternative housing solutions that prioritize social inclusion and educational opportunities for these young peo Furthermore, an increasing number of young refugees and migrants abandon the formal reception system entirely, leaving them dangerously vulnerable and at risk of exploita
In1945Mons.JohnPatrickCarroll-Abbing establishedtheorganization’sfirstprogramin Italy.Today,hislegacycontinues,withour supportreachingthreeorganizationsacross Rome,Civitavecchia,andNaples,providingvital assistancetoimmigrantandvulnerableyouth.
Theimpactfulworkwesupport
Asim,originallyfrom Tunisia,arrivedinItalyin 2022.HecallstheFather ArturoCommunityin Marigliano,Napleshome. Aftercompletingthe pizza-makingcourse,
La Repubblica dei Ragazzi, Civitavecchia, Italy
MEXICO
Thesituationofchildren
Mexico faces a complex challenge in ensuring child well-being. Poverty grips 44% of the population, limiting access to sanitation, proper nutrition, and quality healthcare. These disadvantages disproportionately impact children, especially those from indigenous communities. Furthermore, Mexico ranks second for the number of children exposed to high-intensity conflict zones in the region.
Weworkwith4localorganizationsto supportindigenouschildreninthestate ofChihuahua.
Theimpactfulworkwesupport
For decades, our dedicated partners have served indigenous Tarahumara and Tepehuán children in Chihuahua. In 2023, they provided essential support to 484 children, including 307 girls and 177 boys, from the region's most deprived areas. Our collaborative efforts focus on creating a safe haven, fulfilling nutritional needs, ensuring access to quality healthcare, and fostering educational opportunities.
ADRIAN
Adrianlivedinasmall rancho.Afterjoining InstitutoTecnico Sisoguichi,heovercame challenges,excelled academically,andlearned leadershipskills.Supported byfriendsandteachers,he planstopursuefurther education,sohecan provideforhisyounger siblings.Adrianthrivesin theinstitute'scaring environment,focusingon hiswell-beingandbuilding abrighterfuture.
Internado
Sagrado
Corazón de Jesús, Sisoguichi, Chihuahua, Mexico
PALESTINE
Thesituationofchildren
Educating
The ongoing conflict in the Holy Land continues to devastate the lives of children and their families. Access to essential needs, including healthcare, education, and safe drinking water, hangs in the balance due to the war's impact on infrastructure and services. This precarious situation disproportionately affects vulnerable children, including those with specialized learning needs.
Ephpheta is a school that transforms the lives of 202 deaf children, including 99 girls and 103 boys. Children receive indi acad with dev to p part
Pontifical Institute
Ephpheta Paul VI, Bethlehem, Palestine
Ritaj,a7-year-oldfrom Hebron,facedasilent worldduetofinancial constraintshinderingher specializededucation.A ChanceInLifeintervened, coveringhertuitionat Ephpheta,whichprovided crucialspeechtherapy. Artsandsportsenabled Ritajnotonlytodevelop communicationskillsbut
PERU
4
Thesituationofchildren
476
Despite progress reported by UNICEF, significant challenges hinder educatio equity for Peruvian children. Low achievement in core subjects and an 8 secondary school completion rate, particularly in poorer and rural areas, young people. The COVID-19 pandemi exacerbated challenges Today, 1 in 3 children are at risk of mental health issues that can impede learning.
OurfourpartnersinPeruworkwith disadvantagedpopulationsinurbanand ruralareasofApurimac,Cusco,Piura andAncashdepartments.
Theimpactfulworkwesupport
In Peru, our four partners serve 476 underprivileged youth, including 274 girls and 202 boys from the highlands of Apurimac and Cusco, as well as coastal regions like Piura and Ancash. These crucial programs provide comprehensive support including residential care, quality education, nutritious meals, individual counseling, and skill development. By equipping children with knowledge, emotional well-being, and practical skills, our partners break the cycle of poverty and empower them to pursue vocational studies, higher education, and long-term economic independence.
Ericsonisa12-year-old wholiveswithhis parentsandsiblings. Hisparentsarefarmers andhavenoformal education.Initially,he facedchallengesin MathandSpanishat school.However,since hebeganattending AlbergueSantaMaria Goretti,hisacademic performancehas significantlyimproved. Ericsonhopestoattend universityandstudy business.
ERICSON
Hogar María Reina de las Misiones, Apurimac, Peru
UGANDA
Thesituationofchildren
Children in Uganda comprise nearly ha the population (46% aged 0-14) and fa enormous obstacles including child labor, violence, limited education, malnutrition, HIV prevalence, and a legacy of child soldiery. Economic hardship, political instability, and societal issues further jeopardize the children's well-being.
Wepartnerwithalocalorganizationthat providesqualityeducationtochildreninthe Sembabuledistrictinthecentralregionof Uganda.
Theimpactfulworkwesupport
In Uganda, we partner with a local organization that offers 1,045 children, including 689 girls and 356 boys, elementary and middle school education in the rural Sembabule district. Additional services such as nutrition, counseling, and healthcare, ensure the well-being of the children and develops empowered individuals who can contribute to a more equal and prosperous society in Uganda.
Ruth,a12-year-old,faced challengesattending schoolregularlydueto household responsibilitiesandalack ofessentialmaterials.At CurtinChildLearning Center,shereceivedthe necessaryresourcesto pursuehereducation.Her determinationanddesire tolearnfueledher academicprogress.She lovesdebatingand dreamsofbecominga lawyer.
Curtin Child Learning Center, Sembabule District, Uganda
VENEZUELA
Thesituationofchildren
1,130
OurthreepartnersinVenezuelaarededicated toprovidingnutritionalassistancetochildren
Venezuela's children face a devastat humanitarian crisis. The collapse of education systems has created a pre environment. Malnutrition rates soa during the pandemic, further exacer vulnerabilities. For children fleeing dangers of trafficking, child labor, and abuse add another layer of hardship. The lack of access to quality education and proper nutrition prevents the holistic development and well-being of children. Yessenia,whospent overadecadeat CasaHogarSagrado CorazóndeJesús, exemplifiesthe program’s
YESSENIA
2023StatementofActivities
Our Financial Statements cover January 1 – December 31, 2023. Complete financial statements are available on our website.
Thank you to our dedicated corporate, foundation, and institutional partners who have made financial contributions to advance our work.
Thank you to our 2023 Sustainer's Circle Members!
Bob & Shannon Alten
Marilyn Batista
Nicole Carfiro
Claudio Cipolla
Elizabeth Connors
Gabriele Delmonaco
Claire Gallagher
Arthur & Sheryl Gardner
Sandra Goldfarb
Joseph Hester
Don & Louise Hinshaw
Robert Iommazzo
Nai-Yu Kuo
David Lee
Wajiha Maan
Kintu Makanji
Ryan McCurry
Sean McPhetridge
Joe Mitchell
Sherry Muniz
Lawrence Nibbi
Susan O'Brien
Matthew O’Brien
Andres Ocampo
Anthony Pantaleoni
Meg Pesavento
Gabriela Pera & Anthony
Piscopo
Federico Rampini
Curtis Robinson
Alfonso & Marissa
Rocciola
Suellen Rosenberger
Sonila Sema
Sunny Sim
Tim Tynan
Roy Van Pelt
Claire Walton
Michael & Maria Walton
Rick Walton
Yunyun Wang
We invite you to become a recurring monthly donor and join our esteemed Sustainer's Circle. By making a monthly contribution, you provide us with a reliable base of unrestricted support, enabling us to plan more effectively and dedicate more resources directly to the programs that empower vulnerable youth worldwide. To join our Sustainer's Circle visit our website.
Reflecting on 2023, we have seen you - our generous supporters and dedicated partners - behind every moment. We are deeply grateful to everyone who has made, and continues to make, our mission possible. Over the past 79 years, our global community has grown, enabling us to reach more at-risk youth worldwide each year. Thank you for making our mission possible, for standing by our side, and for supporting our initiatives throughout 2023.
GiveWith Confidence!
We received the Platinum Seal from Guide Star and four stars from Charity Navigator, the highest possible ratings from top charity evaluators. Your contributions to A Chance In
deductible to the
are
extent of the law.
Our Team
Gabriele Delmonaco President/CEO
Clara Chahwan Senior Vice President & Deputy
Guadalupe Aguirre Building Manager of The Village
Jaqueline Arenales
Programs Manager of The Village
Sarah Barr Administrative Assistant
Shannon Chan Executive Administrator
Christopher Dowling Director of Community Engagement of The Village
Elser Llanos VP of Programmatic Activities
Jerome Kilbane Director of Development
Adrianna Stoiber Director of Development
Cynthia Valle Executive Director of The Village
Claire Walton Director of Communications
Loziana Vejuka Office Manager
Board of Directors
Robert Iommazzo Chair Managing Director, ZRG Partners
Mauro C. Romita Vice Chair
Stephen Bellini Treasurer President, Broken Shed Vodka, LLC
Jeanine T. Margiano Secretary Partner, Windels Marx Lane & Mittendorf, LLP
Kate Bullis Managing Director ZRG Partners
Guy Chiarello COO Fiserv, Inc.
Gabriele Delmonaco President/CEO, A Chance In Life
Phil Guarnieri CEO Empire State Bank
Lawrence Nibbi CEO, Nibbi Brothers General Contractors
Gabriela Pera Piscopo Consultant
Emilie Puzio Realtor Associate, D’Amico & McConnell Realtors
Mark Quattrocchi Principal Emeritus, Quattrocchi Qwok Architects
Srii Srinivasan Co-Founder & Board Member, Chargeback Gurus
Tim Tynan CEO Chargeback Gurus
Roy Van Pelt Consultant
Lathrop Construction
Our mission has always been to give “a chance in life” to marginalized and at-risk young people around the world. For nearly eighty years, thanks to our incredible supporters and partners, we have empowered over 55,000 young people to thrive by offering them a safe environment, access to healthcare, and the resources to pursue education. While we celebrate our achievements, we acknowledge that our work is not done. Today, 566 million children worldwide still face the harsh realities of multidimensional poverty and lack the opportunities they deserve.* Join us in our mission. With your support, we can empower even more young people, celebrate more milestones, and give a chance in life to those who need it most. www.achanceinlife.org *According to the