ANNUAL
REPORT
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TABLE OF CONTENTS Our Programs & Impact 2023
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Advancing the Sustainable Development Goals
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Letter from the President/CEO
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Our Founder
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Our Story and Evolution
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Financials
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Our Approach: Positive Youth Development
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The Village in New York City
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OUR STORY Our Partners8in Italy
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Our Partners in Ethiopia
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Our Partners in Uganda
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Our Partners in India
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Our Partners in Bolivia
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OUR PARTNERS 37
DONOR RECOGNITION
Our Partners in Colombia
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Our Partners in Guatemala
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Our Partners in Mexico
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Our Partners in Peru
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Our Partners in Venezuela
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Our Partners in Palestine
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2022-2023 Special Initiative: Relief 4 Ukraine
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Events
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Remembering Herman “Hy” Hochberg, 1929-2023
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Sustainer's Circle
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Donor Recognition
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Our Board and Team
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Empowering at-risk young people around the world with education and leadership development since 1945.
Cover photo: Boys at Casa Hogar Betania, Mexico Girls at Hogar Aldea Pablo IV, Colombia
OUR PROGRAMS & IMPACT
2023 5,851
$1.5M | 12 | 37 | Beneficiaries Grants Awarded Countries Programs
In 2023, A Chance In Life welcomed our Partners in Venezuela and provided $1.5 million in grants to 37 development projects around the world.
Ukrainians supported by our Relief 4 Ukraine program in Italy
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ADVANCING THE
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS THE 2030 AGENDA FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT The United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), also known as the Global Goals, were adopted by all UN Member States in 2015 as a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure that all people enjoy peace and prosperity by 2030. In 2015, as A Chance In Life embarked on its international focus and sought out partners and programs to advance the Global Goals in ambitious and effective ways. With our local partners in each country, we work to advance SDGs that directly impact children and youth. A Chance In Life derived an approach from the Global Indicator Framework to capture quarterly progress reports from each of our partners on the advancement of the SDGs.
A CHANCE IN LIFE'S UN CONSULTATIVE STATUS
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The ACIL team participates in an ECOSOC event at UN Headquarters, 2023.
In 2021 A Chance In Life earned the accreditation of Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). This recognition enables A Chance In Life to directly support the global agenda and lend our organization's seven decades of expertise to promote communication and collaboration between civil society groups, governments and the United Nations.
LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT/CEO Dear Friends, It is with great pride that we connect with you once again, sharing our Annual Report for the 2022-23 programming year. As we look back on the year, we reflect on transformation – both for A Chance In Life as an organization, and for the young people and communities impacted by our work. In 2022, we witnessed the transformative power of education as we worked closely with children around the world adjusting to the post-pandemic landscape. We extended our efforts to address the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goal 4: Quality Education, providing holistic educational support to overcome learning loss, bridge the digital divide and address the emotional well-being of our children, impacting nearly 6,000 young people across 12 countries. Through our work in New York, our flagship program, The Village has been instrumental in our ability to meet UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 1 – No Poverty and SDG 2 – Zero Hunger. Serving the children of Staten Island, a community experiencing considerable child poverty, our comprehensive offerings including a weekly food pantry, vocational training, and leadership initiatives, are bringing about real and tangible transformation to a dramatically underserved neighborhood in our own backyard. In line with the UN SDGs 5 and 10: Gender Equality and Reduced Inequalities, we believe in and foster a culture of inclusivity and equal opportunities. Our programs in Emdibir, Ethiopia provide educational opportunities, safe housing and nutrition to girls who would otherwise have no access to these services in the remote villages in which they live. Meanwhile, in Mexico, we are putting indigenous children on the path to education, reducing the chances that they will fall victim to the longstanding targeting of their community by cartels and traffickers and breaking the cycle of generational poverty. These commitments have saved the lives of the children in these programs. A Chance In Life is also undergoing a transformation as an organization – what began as a grassroots effort to help vulnerable children on the streets of Rome nearly 80 years ago has grown into a multinational organization managing partnerships and funding relationships across the globe. In support of this transformation, the past year saw the establishment of A Chance In Life Italia – our first Italy-based administrative office, designed to oversee the continuation of our storied programs established by our Founder and build additional relationships to support their continued growth and success. We extend an invitation for you to deepen your engagement with us and experience these transformations first-hand: visit The Village, join our events and keep up-to-date with our progress through our newsletter. Your continued support and involvement are essential to our work. Together, we can accelerate the transformation towards the world as envisioned in the UN SDGs. Insieme tutto è possibile … Together, anything is possible.
Gabriele Delmonaco President/CEO
Grazie mille! Gabriele Delmonaco President/CEO
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OUR FOUNDER Monsignor John Patrick Carroll-Abbing’s dedication to orphaned and vulnerable children defined his life's work and established the foundation for A Chance In Life. During World War II, conflict around Rome intensified, food became scarce and living conditions deteriorated. Monsignor John Patrick Carroll-Abbing, member of the Vatican Diplomatic Service, responded to the crisis with care and compassion. He organized evacuations, established hospitals and distributed medicine and supplies to civilians in need. When the war concluded, famine, hardship and homelessness endured, and thousands of vulnerable and orphaned children were forced to survive on the streets. With the blessing of Pope Pius XII, Monsignor Carroll-Abbing dedicated his time and resources to organize warm meals and shelter for the “shoeshine boys”: local children hanging around Rome's Termini train station, shining shoes to make a few cents a day. He coordinated the Shoeshine Hotel in the basement of an abandoned building. The Monsignor encouraged the boys to strengthen their leadership skills and cultivate their self-confidence. Recognizing the challenges of engaging children in service organizations, particularly those accustomed to living on their own, the Monsignor imagined a new model for his organization: self-government. Children had the responsibility of running the programs, with adult supervision.
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The first Boys' Republic (La Repubblica dei Ragazzi) was established in Civitavecchia in 1945 as a self-governing, democratic community complete with its own currency, elected officials, assemblies and courts. In 1953, on the outskirts of Rome, Monsignor Carroll-Abbing established Boys’ Town of Italy (La Città dei Ragazzi) founded on the same model of self-government. By 1957, there were eight Boys' Towns, one Girls' Town and 40 nurseries and day schools for the children of working mothers. Italy honored Monsignor CarrollAbbing with the Silver Medal for Military Valor for his work. Humanitarian organizations around the world recognized the Monsignor for his extraordinary work. In 1985 The Foreign Press Association honored Monsignor Carroll-Abbing with the World Humanitarian Award. In 1987, he became the third nonItalian Honorary Citizen of Rome, following U.S. Presidents Woodrow Wilson and Franklin D. Roosevelt. Monsignor Carroll-Abbing was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize in 1988. The Towns were visited by a host of world leaders and celebrities including every American President from Dwight D. Eisenhower to George H.W. Bush, Pope John Paul I, Prince Charles and Princess Diana of Wales.
Monsignor Carroll-Abbing and students honor U.S. President LBJ during his visit to The Towns in Italy
OUR STORY AND EVOLUTION Since 1945, A Chance In Life has enabled more than 50,000 young people across 12 countries to learn and grow as leaders in their own communities.
ACIL team members and students at St. Anthony Technical School, Emdibir, Ethiopia.
As Europe began to heal from the devastation of WWII, children from other countries fled to Italy in search of asylum and safety. Our Towns in Italy became a home for children from over twenty different countries. Many young people arrived unaccompanied as refugees and migrants, fleeing civil unrest and famine in other parts of the world, including North and East Africa and the Middle East. In 2015 the organization expanded its mission to serve atrisk young people around the world. We changed our name to A Chance In Life to capture this international spirit. A Chance In Life has partnered with local organizations in Ethiopia, India, Bolivia, Colombia, Guatemala, Peru, Mexico, Uganda, Palestine, and most recently, Venezuela.
In 2021, A Chance In Life opened the doors of its first USbased program - The Village in New York City - in the North Shore community of Staten Island. The Village draws its name - and its mission to serve vulnerable youth - from our original program, Il Villaggio del Fanciullo in Civitavecchia. Now, with the support of our donors, we continue to invest in our Partners and provide new initiatives for at-risk young people, continuing Monsignor Carroll-Abbing’s legacy of striving towards a day when every child in the world has “a chance in life.”
August 13, 1945
October 5, 2015
June 12, 2018
March 4, 2022
Founding of The Boys' Republic in Civitavecchia
Our organization becomes "A Chance In Life"
First partnership in Latin America established
Partnership in Palestine established
June 16, 2015
June 7, 2016
Founding of Boys' & Girls' Towns of Ethiopia
Founding of Boys' & Girls' Towns of India
August 24, 2021 Opened the doors of first USbased program in New York City
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GIVE WITH CONFIDENCE 87% A Chance In Life received Platinum Seal (highest possible rating)
87% of funds directly support our programs for young people*
*87% of funds go to our programs, 6% goes to fundraising and 7% goes to general management.
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A Chance In Life received four stars (highest possible rating)
2022 FINANCIALS Our complete financial statements with the report of our independent auditors, Daszkowski, Tompkins, Weg & Carbonella CPA PC, are available upon request. Your contributions to A Chance In Life are tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law.
Add a heading
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OUR APPROACH:
POSITIVE YOUTH DEVELOPMENT Youth education and empowerment are at the heart of our mission. A Chance In Life works with our Partners around the world to ensure young people have the resources and opportunities to grow as leaders in their communities. Our approach has evolved from the model of self-government, developed by Monsignor John Patrick Carroll-Abbing, to Positive Youth Development (PYD). PYD's framework focuses on the Five C’s: Competence, Confidence, Connection, Character, and Caring/Compassion (Lerner, et al, 2005), to ultimately achieve a Sixth C: Contribution to self, family, community and to the institutions of a civil society. Lerner, R. M. et al. (2005) ‘Positive Youth Development A View of the Issues’, The Journal of Early Adolescence, 25(1), pp. 10–16. doi: 10.1177/0272431604273211.
MONITORING VISITS AND CAPACITY BUILDING Our team conducts regular monitoring visits and offers capacity building opportunities to our Partners around the world. During the monitoring visits, our team collects first-hand information and reviews the programs' efficiency, effectiveness and sustainability. We take these opportunities to provide introductory trainings to program staff on Child Safeguarding, Financial Management, Results-Based Management and Monitoring of Programs. These trainings seek to increase the technical knowledge of our Partners. We recognize that strong and lasting partnerships with local organizations are crucial to improving the lives of young people.
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VP of Programs Elser Llanos works with program staff in Medellín, Colombia
THE VILLAGE IN NEW YORK CITY
Students in the Summer Youth Employment Program
A Chance In Life launched The Village, its first US-based program, to offer young people in New York City a chance in life. 11
THE VILLAGE IN NEW YORK CITY The Village harnesses the power of Positive Youth Development to provide holistic programming to the community, engaging children and families with after school drop-in programs, weekend events and collaborations with community-based organizations. In 2022 The Village offered 3 youth leadership programs, distributed 119,000 lbs of food, engaged 200+ volunteers, partnered with 30+ community organizations and distributed 600+ coats, toys and books to the community.
PROGRAM STATISTICS
4,802 DIRECT BENEFICIARIES
3
YOUTH PROGRAMS
SDG SPOTLIGHT: GOAL 2 Our unique approach to food distribution at The Village Free Market empowers community members with a grocery store shopping experience. Families and individuals have the opportunity to choose their pantry items, baked goods and frozen foods in a welcoming environment, reducing food waste as well as the stigma commonly associated with visiting a food pantry.
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT
"During the Workshop, I found my passion for business and gained the confidence to stop doubting myself and pursue my professional dream."
DAYSHA AGE 19
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The Youth Leadership Workshop touring the United Nations.
STUDENT GRADUATE OF THE FIRST COHORT OF THE YOUTH LEADERSHIP WORKSHOP
OUR PARTNERS AROUND THE WORLD This year we are working in collaboration with 37 local organizations serving at-risk children and youth in 12 countries.
Girls from Hogar Veracruz in Bogotá, Colombia.
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REFUGEE YOUTH
ITALY
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Refugee children are twice as likely as their peers to be out of school. Our Partners provide academic tutoring and psychological support to help youth adjust to education systems in new countries.
Summer camp in Civitavecchia, 2022
OUR PARTNERS IN ITALY A Chance In Life has been changing the lives of young people in Italy since 1945. Today we provide marginalized Italian and immigrant youth resources and opportunities to develop in safe and supportive environments. Many of the children come from poverty and fragmented homes. Our Partners provide nutritional support, tutoring and integral healthcare.
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DIRECT BENEFICIARIES
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PARTNERS
At La Repubblica dei Ragazzi, the first permanent program established by Monsignor John Patrick Carroll-Abbing, young people continue to engage in self-government and take responsibility for running their community. SDG SPOTLIGHT: GOAL 4 In 2022, 100% of beneficiaries successfully progressed to the next academic year. Our Partners ensure quality education is inclusive and equitable. Our newest Partner, The Workshop of Inclusion, provides education and employment opportunities to young people who encountered the juvenile justice system.
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT Giacomo grew up in a single-parent household with his mother, grandmother, brother and sister. His mother was the only one working to provide for the family and was unable to take him and his siblings to school. In Italy, young people from similar backgrounds often drop out of school and exhibit signs of behavior problems. In 2015, social services supported Giacomo's enrollment at La Repubblica dei Ragazzi. A Chance In Life has enabled Giacomo to pursue his interests and education. The program also supports his emotional wellbeing by offering counseling and psychological support. Giacomo will soon begin his studies at the University of Rome. He hopes to pursue a professional course and find a job to support his mother.
DAYSHA, AGE 19 STUDENT GRADUATE OF THE FIRST COHORT OF GIACOMO THE YOUTH LEADERSHIP AGEWORKSHOP 18 La Repubblica dei Ragazzi, 2022.
LA REPUBBLICA Students inDEI the Youth Leadership 15 visit the UN, 2022 RAGAZZI,Workshop CIVITAVECCHIA
EDUCATION & EQUALITY Nearly 50% of Ethiopian girls who start school will drop out before finishing the fifth grade. Our Partners ensure that girls have the support they need to succeed in school.
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ETHIOPIA
College girls from Emdibir, Ethiopia.
OUR PARTNERS IN ETHIOPIA Food insecurity, drought and regional conflicts, coupled with the cost of tuition, school supplies and uniforms, prevent young people from accessing basic resources and pursing their education. Our programs provide young people with education, healthcare services and comprehensive support to those in need.
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DIRECT BENEFICIARIES
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PARTNERS
Last year A Chance In Life worked with 4 local Partners to empower young people with education and opportunities. In 2022 we supported 325 young people between the ages of 7 and 25 in the rural community of Emdibir and the city of Addis Ababa.
SDG SPOTLIGHT: GOAL 13 In 2022 our Partner, FIDA, offered workshops on climate change for students, teachers and members of the community. FIDA also organized a day for students, kindergarten teachers and the community to plant trees.
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT Abdulamalik lives with his mother and four siblings in the capital of Ethiopia, Addis Ababa. Before joining our Partner program, Friendship for Integrated Development Association (FIDA) Child Sponsorship Program, Abdulamalik often missed school, picking up jobs in the street market near his home to earn money for food. The FIDA Child Sponsorship Program supports Abdulamalik and other students with basic services including financial support for food and rent, uniforms and school supplies, annual medical coverage, counseling services and economic empowerment programs to support families to establish their own income generating activities. After completing his education at FIDA, Abdulamalik will pursue his studies at one of the best state universities in Ethiopia. Following graduation, he hopes to find a good job to support himself and his mother.
ABDULAMALIK AGE 16
Children enjoying school break.
FRIENDSHIP FOR INTEGRATED DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION (FIDA)
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GENDER INEQUALITY
UGANDA
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Discrimination against girls and barriers to girls’ education remain prevalent issues in Uganda. Deeprooted gender sterotypes often lead to a preference for boys' education over girls', perpetuating cyles of inequality. Furthermore, inadequate instrastructure, lack of access to sanitation facilities and safety concerns on the way to school disproportionately affect girls, further hindering their educational journey.
Children and families at Curtin Child Learning Center, Sembabule District, Uganda.
OUR PARTNER IN UGANDA
PARTNERSIN VENEZUELA
In Uganda, countless children face formidable obstacles that impede their access to education and personal development. Poverty, limited access to quality education, and lack of essential resources create barriers to their growth and disproportionately affect girls' access to education. A Chance In Life partners with Curtin Child Learning Center to ensure young people in rural Uganda have access to education and resources.
In 2022 our Partner offered education, nutrition, counseling, healthcare and a safe environment to learn and grow to 264 children between the ages of 3 and 14 from the rural areas of Sembabule District. Our Partner ensures children and youth have the support they need to thrive both in and out of the classroom. By investing in the young people's education and well-being, A Chance In Life is paving the way for a more equitable and prosperous society in Uganda.
264
DIRECT BENEFICIARIES
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PARTNER
SDG SPOTLIGHT: GOAL 2 The Curtin Child Learning Center in Uganda has a school garden and teaches responsible food production and consumption with hands-on learning. Children also learn about the importance of nutrition for their wellbeing and growth.
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT Before enrolling at the Curtin Child Learning Center, Catherine lived with her grandmother and had never been to school. She spent most of her days at home doing chores including fetching water, collecting firewood and preparing meals. CATHERINE
AGE 7
Catherine was three years behind her peers when she first enrolled. She can now read and CURTIN CHILD write with little teacher supervision and has LEARNING CENTER, become a class leader. SEMBABULE DISTRICT, UGANDA When Catherine grows up, she wants to become a nurse or health practitioner.
CATHERINE AGE 7 Children at school, Sembabule, Uganda.
CURTIN CHILD LEARNING CENTER, SEMBABULE
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POVERTY & EDUCATION
INDIA
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In 2016, India became home to over 30% of the world's children living in extreme poverty. If all students in lowincome countries left school with basic reading skills, 171 million people would be lifted out of poverty. Through vocational training and academic support, our Partners prepare children and youth for employment and college.
Children from Pope Paul Mercy Home, Kerala, India.
OUR PARTNERS IN INDIA In 2022, we partnered with seven local organizations in the southern state of Kerala and the northern state of Gujarat to serve vulnerable, indigenous and differently abled young people from impoverished backgrounds. Our programs provided 582 young people access to nutrition, healthcare, residency and academic support to pursue their education. Young people had the opportunity to learn new skills and our programs reduced the digital divide by offering training in computer science and technology.
582
DIRECT BENEFICIARIES
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PARTNERS
SDG SPOTLIGHT: GOAL 3 India accounts for 28% of global cases of TB; however, our Partners reported no new cases of tuberculosis, malaria or hepatitis thanks to the ongoing medical screenings and preventative measures our programs provide . We are committed to ensuring young people are healthy promoting their well-being.
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT Anila was an orphan suffering from malnutrition and tuberculosis. After enrolling at the girls’ school, Maria Gorethi Bhavan, she received urgent medical attention and support from her teachers. Anila is now healthy, free from TB and receives treatment for a throat tumor she contracted at a young age. Maria Gorethi Bhavan is located in Attappady where many girls suffer from malnutrition and lack access to education. The school enables Anila and her classmates to pursue their education, build their confidence and lead healthy lives.
DAYSHA, AGE 19 STUDENT GRADUATE ANILA OF THE FIRST COHORT OF AGE 10
Girls Town, Kottayam.
THE YOUTH LEADERSHIP WORKSHOP MARIA GORETHI Students in the Youth Leadership 21 BHAVAN, KERALA Workshop visit the UN, 2022
CHILD LABOR
BOLIVIA
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Nearly 1 out of 3 Bolivian children work, which jeopardizes their education and leaves them vulnerable to exploitation. Our Partner offers academic support, access to vocational training and university studies to working young people.
Children from Centro Hermano Manolo, Cochabamba, Bolivia
OUR PARTNER IN BOLIVIA Since 2018, we have cultivated a partnership with a local organization in Cochabamba, Bolivia, with a special focus on a marginalized demographic: working children. In 2022 the program made a significant impact in the lives of 76 children and youth. The program ensures children have the opportunity to continue their formal education and receive vocational training opportunities. In addition to facilitating educational pursuits, our initiatives include the provision of vital healthcare services as well as the promotion of economic stewardship, fostering proactive engagement in climate action campaigns.
76 DIRECT BENEFICIARIES
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PARTNER
SDG SPOTLIGHT: GOAL 3 Our Partner organization provides essential healthcare services, including dental care and psychological support, to children and youth who work out of necessity to contribute financially to their families, advancing SDG3.
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT Carolina was a very shy teenager, unable to express herself, and due to her family's financial hardship, she had to work as a kitchen helper and fell behind in school. Since enrolling in the program, Carolina has worked with a psychologist and bolstered her self-confidence and cultivated her leadership abilities. She now dreams of pursuing a career in gastronomy. Carolina envisions specialization in the field, driven by the aspiration to teach and contribute to the schools' curricula.
CAROLINA AGE 19 Children showing handmade cards for Mother's Day
CENTRO HERMANO MANOLO, COCHABAMBA
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EDUCATION EQUALITY
COLOMBIA
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As of 2015, 1 in every 5 young women in Colombia (15 - 19 years) was or had been pregnant. If all women completed secondary education, the pregnancy rate in this demographic could fall by as much as 59%. Through vocational training and academic support, our Partners offer young girls access to education and new skills for career advancement.
Girls from Hogar Juan Pablo I, Buenaventura, Colombia.
OUR PARTNERS IN COLOMBIA In 2022 we partnered with five local organizations in Colombia, collectively reaching 306 children and youth from urban and rural underprivileged regions grappling with significant societal challenges.
306
DIRECT BENEFICIARIES
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Our Partners concentrated on providing housing, formal education, skills development, nutritional services and healthcare access. The young people also learned about the importance of safeguarding the environment and nurtured green spaces.
PARTNERS
SDG SPOTLIGHT: GOAL 13 Our Partners promoted sustainable practices like reducing, reusing and recycling, while children and youth actively nurtured green spaces within their residences, contributing to environmental conservation.
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT "I have grown a lot, I feel very sure of myself, I recognize my mistakes but also [how] capable as I can be, I owe this to the [educators] who have guided me with such dedication and patience. When I entered I was a very poor student and today, despite my intellectual disability [short-term memory loss due to epilepsy], with the discipline and support of the sisters I have learned to be myself and now I occupy the first position in school." Nataly has many plans. She shared, "The sisters always say that we must dream big and work every day to achieve our dreams. I would like to take a beauty course and set up my own hairdresser. I would also like to join the army."
NATALY AGE 17 Chidlren from Fundación Hogar del Niño, Medellín.
HOGAR SANTA ROSA DE LIMA, CÚCUTA, COLOMBIA
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MALNUTRITION Guatemala has some of the highest rates of child malnutrition in the world. Over 1 million children under the age of five suffer from chronic malnutrition or growth stunting. Our Partners provide nutritious meals to our young people to ensure they grow up healthy and have the energy to learn and play.
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GUATEMALA
Children from Hogar Nuestra Señora Consoladora, Guatemala City.
OUR PARTNERS IN GUATEMALA In 2022, A Chance In Life partnered with three local organizations in Guatemala. Each of these programs is dedicated to uplifting children and youth from the most economically marginalized backgrounds - often vulnerable indigenous families. Our Partners in Guatemala served 326 children and youth aged 3 to 18. Their comprehensive efforts spanned vital aspects including residential support, nutrition, healthcare, and education access. They also placed particular emphasis on promoting gender equality and empowering girls (SDG 5). The programs also focused on waste reduction and taught lessons on the importance of reusing and recycling materials (SDG 13). Alongside addressing nutritional needs (SDG 2), they emphasized vocational training in bakery, welding and finance, as well as promoting education access and retention (SDG 4).
326
DIRECT BENEFICIARIES
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PARTNERS
SDG SPOTLIGHT: GOAL 3 Our Partners have made significant strikes in advancing SDG 3 by providing psychological services and facilitating medical check-ups to ensure the well-being of children and youth.
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT Pedro grew up in a rural community with limited access to essential services. He lived with his mother, and they had to work agricultural jobs to secure food. Since enrolling in the program, Pedro's physical and mental health have improved, and he has advanced his studies. Pedro shared that the program has allowed him to dream of becoming a professional because before he did not know that it was possible to improve his living conditions. He plans to continue his university studies in Electrical Engineering or pursue Law. He wants to support his mother, be a responsible person and contribute to society.
PEDRO AGE 19
Girls from Hogar Santa Rosa de Lima, Cuilapa.
CASA HOGAR CENTRO VOCACIONAL SAN JOSÉ, GUATEMALA CITY
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FOOD INSECURITY Food access is a primary concern in rural households in lower- and middle-income countries. Indigenous communities are particularly vulnerable to food insecurity. Our Partner organization works with Tarahumara children in Chihuahua, Mexico to improve young people's nutritional outcomes and offers access to other basic services.
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MEXICO
Children from Casa Hogar Betania, Guadalupe y Calvo, Mexico.
OUR PARTNER IN MEXICO In 2022, we established a partnership with a local organization in Mexico dedicated to assisting indigenous Tarahumara and Tepehuán children. These children face significant obstacles, including lack of fundamental services and educational opportunities.
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DIRECT BENEFICIARIES
Our Partner organization provided housing and comprehensive services to 25 children between the ages of 4 and 18 last year. These children hailed from remote villages and were living in conditions of extreme poverty. Addressing the pressing issue of severe nutrient deficiency was a priority and required urgent medical intervention in many cases. Through this partnership, indigenous children are granted the chance to lead healthy lives and realize their full potential.
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PARTNER
SDG SPOTLIGHT: GOAL 13 Our Partner in Mexico in 2022 provided nutritional services to indigenous children and youth, helping them reach a healthy nutritional state.
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT Germán arrived at the program in October, 2022 after his family was displaced by cartel violence in the Municipality of Guadalupe y Calvo. At Casa Hogar Betania, Germán has access to food, clothing, education, and other basic necessities. The program teaches the importance of respect, solidarity, empathy, honesty and community. In the future, Germán wants to use his knowledge to support others.
GERMÁN AGE 11 Casa Hogar Betania, Guadalupe y Calvo, Mexico.
CASA HOGAR BETANIA, CHIHUAHUA, MEXICO
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EDUCATION & EARNINGS
PERU
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Three out of every five Peruvian children live in poverty, with one in every five living in extreme poverty. For every additional year that a child attends school, their earning potential increases by an average of 10%. Our Partners in Peru provide young people from poor communities with resources and support to stay in school.
Students from Fe y Alegría School, in San Juan de Lurigancho, Peru's most densily populated district.
OUR PARTNERS IN PERU
CATHERINE AGE 7
Our Partner organizations in Peru are committed to uplifting children and youth from the most underprivileged urban areas along the nation's coastline. Challenges within local educational institutions have created barriers, limiting access to quality education. Through the dedicated efforts of A Chance In Life's Partners, children and youth enrolled in a public school located in one of Peru's most densely populated districts, San Juan de Lurigancho in Lima, have been able to receive essential assistance. Additionally, improved services have been extended to children attending an elementary school situated in an informal desert settlement just outside the city of Nuevo Chimbote on the northern coast of Peru.
434
DIRECT BENEFICIARIES
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PARTNERS
SDG SPOTLIGHT: GOAL 3 In Peru, there is a huge gap in the quality of educational services among the public and private sectors; Peruvian public schools bear major deficiencies compared to private institutions. Bullying in schools is also major problem that has increased over the last decade in Peru, and according to the Ministry of Education, only 2% of public schools have a psychologist to help students deal with behavioral and academic problems. A Chance In Life's partnership ensures psychological and holistic health services are available to children and youth in the programs.
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT This year Ariana begins her secondary studies at Mundo Mejor. "Mundo Mejor will provide me with a solid academic foundation, as well as human and Christian values. My future goal right now after finishing high school would be to study a professional career in the health area so that I would still be able to support other children who come from similar social situations who need support to develop [their] potential and achieve [their] goals."
ARIANA AGE 12
Children from Alcanzando Nuevos Horizontes.
ALCANZANDO NUEVOS HORIZONTES, NUEVO CHIMBOTE
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FOOD INSECURITY
VENEZUELA
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Millions of Venezuelans face hunger. In 2019, 9.3 million Venezuelans suffered from food insecurity.
Students eating breakfast at Colegio Sagrada Familia, Los Teques, Venezuela.
OUR PARTNERS IN VENEZUELA
PARTNERSIN VENEZUELA
In 2023 A Chance In Life welcomed a new country to our international programs–Venezuela. Through three local partners in two cities - Tinaquillo and Los Toques - A Chance In Life is bringing education, youth leadership, nutrition and vocational training to more than 1,000 young people. Our support comes at a critical time: ongoing economic and political unrest have displaced more than 7 million Venezuelas, and accelerating inflation rates make it increasing difficult for families to provide for their children. Through our Partners, A Chance In Life is not only addressing basic needs of young people, but helping them prepare for a more promising future.
1,054
DIRECT BENEFICIARIES
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PARTNERS
SDG SPOTLIGHT: GOAL 2 A Chance In Life's Partner program, Colegio Sagrada Familia, provides education to over 300 elementary and high school students from the poorest families in Los Teques, a town located in north-central Venezuela. With A Chance In Life’s support, this year Colegio Sagrada Familia will establish a soup kitchen to provide nutritious meals to children in urgent need. A Chance In Life’s partnership with Colegio Josefino María Inmaculada will ensure their soup kitchen, threatened by economic instability, will continue to offer nutritious meals for students and staff.
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT Patricia faced economic struggles and often missed meals before she enrolled at Colegio Sagrada Familia. This program improved her physical and mental health and enabled her to thrive academically. “[The program] has given me tools, not only CATHERINE physical (good nutrition), but also mental AGEemotions), 7 (channeling to improve my academic performance. On the other hand, CURTIN CHILD the psychological contribution is very LEARNING important, I have learnedCENTER, to value myself SEMBABULE more.” DISTRICT, UGANDA Patricia hopes to study Computer Engineering, Systems or Mechatronics at university in Caracas.
PATRICIA AGE 17
Students at Colegio Josefino Marí Inmaculada, Tinaquillo, Venezuela
COLEGIO SAGRADA FAMILIA, LOS TEQUES,VENEZUELA
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CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES Children with hearing disabilities in Palestine face significant obstacles that hinder their access to education and social inclusion. Limited awareness and understanding of deafness in society often leads to stigma and discrimination, isolating these children from their peers.
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PALESTINE
The classroom at Ephpheta, Palestine.
OUR PARTNER IN PALESTINE The Ephpheta School for the Deaf is changing the lives of deaf children in Palestine. Individualized and innovative teaching methodologies ensure that deaf children receive the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive academically and socially. Children enter the school at age 3 with nearly no means of communication. The program invests in individualized care to teach children speech and lipreading, and offers regular coursework to prepare them for traditional education systems and a bright future. Our partnership ensures that children with nearly no means of communication have the opportunity to learn, develop and participate in their communities.
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DIRECT BENEFICIARIES
1
PARTNER
SDG SPOTLIGHT: GOAL 4 Specialized education for children with hearing impairments is crucial because it recognizes and accommodates to their unique communication needs and learning styles. Educators at Ephpheta work directly with students to tailor educational approaches to their specific requirements, building their confidence to overcome obstacles and pursue their education.
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT Ritaj from Hebron was living in a silent world. Her father lost his job and could not cover the tuition fees to support her specialized education. A Chance In Life covered her tuition to enroll at Ephpheta, empowering her with education and speech therapy. Since enrolling, she has had the opportunity to develop her skills and learn and grow with arts and sports therapy.
CATHERINE AGE 7 Ritaj is now able to speak and communicate
without barriers and thrive in her CURTIN CHILD community. She will grow up to have the LEARNING CENTER, gift of independence. SEMBABULE DISTRICT, UGANDA
RITAJ AGE 6
Girls during in a lesson at Ephpheta, Palestine.
THE EPHPHETA SCHOOL FOR THE DEAF, BETHLEHEM, PALESTINE
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2022-2023 SPECIAL INITIATIVE:
RELIEF 4 UKRAINE Beginning in 2022 the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine left millions of innocent civilians hungry, homeless and in desperate need of basic resources. Nearly 5 million Ukrainian refugees have registered for temporary protective status in Europe, many of whom have resettled in Italy.
PROGRAM STATISTICS
123 DIRECT BENEFICIARIES
A Chance In Life provided lifelines including housing, food, medical care, mental health counseling, education and, most importantly, compassion to hundreds of children and families served by our programs in Italy.
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FAMILIES
We supported refugees between the ages of 3 and 83 in our programs in Naples, Visciano, and Civitavecchia.
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YOUNG PEOPLE
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT Anna Ivanova fled to Italy with her mother and sister. The journey took several days on overcrowded trains and buses. At some points, the women were forced to stand for hours at a time due to the crowds. They traveled through Poland before ultimately arriving in Rome and being referred to our program in Civitavecchia. A Chance In Life’s support came at the most critical time. Anna recalled, “A Chance In Life gave me a second chance in life too. I would never have believed in my life that war would be in my country. This word I had only heard from my grandmother during my childhood. But one day I woke up and found out that my country was being bombed by rockets and people were dying there, and I was not ready, no one was ready.”
ANNA AGE 20 36
Ukrainian refugees at our program in Italy.
UKRAINIAN REFUGEE
EVENTS
78th New York Annual Gala
Throughout 2022 and 2023, we had the distinct privilege of celebrating and honoring exceptional individuals for their leadership and unwavering dedication to empowering and inspiring young people. In 2022 at A Chance In Life’s 77th New York Annual Gala, we celebrated the outstanding contributions of Debra Stabile, Basil M. Russo, Cesar Claro, Suzan Kereere, and were honored by the presence of His Eminence Cardinal Pietro Parolin, who accepted the Peacebuilder Award on behalf of The Holy See. In San Francisco, we were privileged to honor Mark Quattrocchi at the San Francisco Ball of the Year. During the Wine & Spirits Annual International Dinner, we paid homage to Tony May and his daughter Marisa May and presented the late Herman Hochberg with the Lifetime Service and Achievement Award.
SAVE THE DATE SAN FRANCISCO BALL OF THE YEAR
April 20, 2024 79TH NEW YORK ANNUAL GALA
October 7, 2024
In 2023, we continued the tradition of celebrating those who make a meaningful impact on our mission. We recognized Richard "Dick" Ghilotti at the San Francisco Ball of the Year and honored Jody Slone Spitalnik and Pete Trizzino at the 78th New York Annual Gala. A Chance In Life extends its deepest gratitude to our exceptional honorees, both past and present, whose unwavering support and dedication serve as a driving force behind our transformative work. Together, we are creating a brighter future for those we serve, and we look forward to the opportunities and achievements that lie ahead.
For additional information, contact office@achanceinlife.org 37
REMEMBERING HERMAN “HY” HOCHBERG, 1929-2023 This year, A Chance In Life remembers our beloved friend and Board Member, Herman Hochberg, who departed this world at the age of 93 on October 19, 2023. Herman’s unwavering commitment to our cause and his tireless efforts in support of our mission have left an indelible imprint on A Chance In Life and the lives of thousands of children around the world. Many years ago, our organization's founder, Msgr. John Patrick Carroll-Abbing, extended a heartfelt invitation to Herman and his late wife, Polly, to visit the Boys' and Girls' Towns of Italy. During that unforgettable journey, they were graced with a remarkable meeting with Pope John Paul II. Overflowing with gratitude, Herman asked, "Monsignor, you have been so kind to us. What can I do for you?" And so, Herman became one of the most devoted champions of A Chance In Life, dedicating over four decades to orchestrating the Wine and Spirits International Dinner, a monumental effort that raised millions of dollars for the children we serve worldwide. In 1986 he was honored by the Boys’ Town of Italy with our Humanitarian Award, and in 2009 he was elected to the National Board of the Boys’ Town. He continued his steadfast service to our organization in honor of his longstanding friendship with our founder, Monsignor John Patrick CarrollAbbing, serving on the Board of Directors. Herman received the Lifetime Service and Achievement Award at the 2022 Wine & Spirits International Dinner. Herman was born in Brooklyn and attended City College School of Engineering. For many decades, he was the owner of A leader in the Wine & Spirits industry, he committed his life to Queens Wines and Liquors in Ridgewood, Queens. service. Herman dedicated two decades to Ridgewood's Community Planning Board #5 and held key positions as the Founding President of the Ridgewood Development Corporation and the Ridgewood Business Improvement District, where he secured a transformative federal grant. He also served on the Board of Directors and the Executive Committee at Community National Bank and Trust Company of New York, and acted as a Director of Mount Carmel Cemetery in Queens County. Additionally, Herman was a member of the Board of Trustees at Wyckoff Heights Medical Center and the President of the Board of Trustees at Park East Synagogue. Countless organizations recognized him for his philanthropy, dedication and commitment to service.
Herman (center) was presented the Lifetime Service and Achievement Award at the 2022 Wine & Spirits International Dinner.
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Herman leaves behind a loving daughter, Marisa, and so many friends who will miss him dearly. The world is a brighter place because of Herman.
Sustainer's Circle MAKE A LASTING IMPACT Become a Sustainer
Thank you to our 2022 Sustainer's Circle Members! Anonymous Elizabeth Augustin Marilyn Batista Nicole Carfiro Cheryl Cheek Matias Chiota Claudio Cipolla Elizabeth Connors Gabriele Delmonaco The DeMatteis Family The Elyse Mancher Charitable Trust Marilynn Fogarty Claire W. Gallagher
Sheryl Gardner Yolanda Garretti Jason Glasser Sandra Goldfarb Elizabeth Griffith Sven Hagen Joseph Hester Sung Ioffredo Robert M. Iommazzo Robert Iommazzo David Kimm Nai-Yu Kuo David Lee Donna Logan Siniscalco
Wajiha Maan Kintu Makanji Sean McPhetridge Sage Miller Joe Mitchell Joseph Montana Carmel Napolitano Lawrence Nibbi Susan O'Brien Matthew O'Brien Andres Ocampo Anthony Pantaleoni Jes Pedersen
Federico Rampini Paul Rathband Alfonso & Marissa Rocciola Suellen Rosenberger Sonila Sema Jennifer Sema Sunny Sim Allan Suen Carmen Torruella Tim Tynan Roy Van Pelt Kathleen Walsh Beth Woldesemayiat
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.
For recurring gifts of $50 or more, we'll send you a tote bag to say thanks! To join our Sustainer's Circle, scan the QR code or visit our website at https://achanceinlife.org/get-involved/sustainers-circle/
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DONOR RECOGNITION
Girls from Hogar Santa Rosa de Lima in Cuilapa, Guatemala.
Thank you to corporate, foundation and institutional partners who have made financial contributions to advance our work. The following list captures these donors for the period January 1, 2022 - December 31, 2022.
Accenture Al and Peggy DeMatteis Family Foundation Alcal Arcade Contracting Co. Allan B. Copley Charitable Foundation Allied Beverage Group Alten Construction, Inc. America Online Giving Fund Anderson Zeigler Arch Angel Token ASB Real Estate Investments AU Baby Beronio Lumber Beverage Media Group Biddle Shaw Insurance Service Blach Construction Breakthru Beverage Group Brelje & Race Consulting Engineers Bright Funds Broadcom
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Broken Shed USA LLC California Casting Capital Group American Funds Caritas Pro Vitae Gradu Charitable Trust Carpenter's Local No. 152 Cedar Chest of Northampton Charles Delmar Foundation Cipriani Citigroup Clerith Zine Coccia Foundation Cognizant US Corp Combined Federal Campaign Community Foundation of New Jersey Connors & Sullivan PLLC Corbin Capital Partners Costa Engineers Counterpoint Construction Crowe Foundation
Crown Sheet Metal & Skylights, Inc. CVS Pharmacy Cybergrants Veri Design Electric Discover Dome Construction Edward Jones Empire State Bank Employers' Advocate Inc. Fedway Associates Financial Force Fiserv Fiserv Global Corporate Citizenship Fisher Investments Flex Employee Services LLC Foothold Technology Fred Alger & Company LLC Free Will Impact Frontstream
THANK YOU! Gabelli Funds GHA Technologies, Inc. Ghilotti Construction Co. Give Lively Foundation Inc Givinga Foundation Inc. Golden State Lumber Gordon & Rees Scully Mansukhani Greystone West Company HalfMyDAF Hamilton Lane Advisors, Llc. Hawaii Regional Council of Carpenters Hoenigman Hovus, Inc. I Am Empowering IBM International Association of Bridge, Structural, Ornamental & Reinforcing Iron Workers Investment Performance Services, LLC ISDA Fraternal Association IStar Italfoods Inc. Italian American Forum Italian Welfare League Jackson Family Enterprises Inc. John D. Calandra Lodge JP Morgan Chase Foundation Kearney Capital LLC Kotas/Pantaleoni Architects Labor First LLC Lathrop Construction Associates LBRP Corp Luchini Investment Group Madrugada Psychological Corporation Make A Wish Foundation New Jersey Margot and Stephen Holland Charitable Fund Mast Jagermeister US MD Pickleball Academy LLC Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated
MHC Engineers Inc. Mind Point Group LLC Morgan Stanley Network for Good New York Paving Inc. Northern 46 California Counties Conference Board Northern California Carpenters Regional Council NYC Ferry LLC O'Mahony & Myer Ohio ISDA Community Foundation Old Town Furniture, Inc. Olsan Law Order Sons and Daughters of Italy in America Paws for Purple Hearts Pierson Family Foundation, Inc Pinnacle Production Group Pitta Bishop & Del Giorno LLC Post Advisory Group Presidio Performing Arts Foundation Proximo Spirits Quattrocchi Kwok Architects, Inc. Quest Investment Management, Inc. Raymond James Global Account RGM Kramer Inc Richmond County Savings Foundation Rossiter Family Fund c/o The Boston Foundation S.L. Bianchi Co. Inc. Realty World Bianchi Associates Saturno Foundation Simons Family Foundation Snakorpio Group Inc. Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits Staten Island Heart Society Stefano La Sala Foundation, Inc Stern Family Foundation Studio PR TD Ameritrade Clearing
Teamsters Local Union 769 The Benevity Community Impact Fund The Blackbaud Giving Fund The Carolina Dukcevich Family Fund The Estée Lauder Companies Charitable Foundation The Green Cities Company The Italian Cultural Foundation at Casa Belvedere The Jeffrey H. Lange Charitable Fund The John and Carrie Santangelo Foundation, Inc. The JP Morgan Charitable Giving Fund The New York Foundling Staten Island Community Services The Points Guy The Printing Business, Inc. The Reggio School The Robert A. and Shirley J. Jones Foundation The Sunshine Foundation The Wine Merchant of Showplace Square UBS UFCW Local 2013 Ullico Investments Company, Inc. United Health Care Services US Mainstream Renewable Power Inc. US Private Wealth Management Verizon Business Group Virtusa VMWare Wall and Ceiling Alliance Warner Mechanical Engineering Inc Washington Capital Management Webcor Construction LP West Coast Financial LLC West State Co. LP Concord Industrial Park, LP Wholehearted, INC. The Goddard School Winebow Zeke Bondy-Villa Memorial Charities Fund Inc. ZFA Structural Engineers
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OUR BOARD AND TEAM BOARD OF DIRECTORS
TEAM MEMBERS
Robert Iommazzo Chair Managing Director, ZRG Partners
Gabriele Delmonaco President/CEO
Mauro C. Romita Vice Chair Stephen Bellini Treasurer President, Broken Shed Vodka, LLC Jeanine T. Margiano Secretary Partner, Windels Marx Lane & Mittendorf, LLP abriele Delmonaco G President/CEO, A Chance In Life Kate Bullis Managing Director, ZRG Partners Guy Chiarello COO, Fiserv, Inc.
Clara Chahwan Senior Vice President & Deputy Claire W. Gallagher Senior Vice President of Development & Communications (until 10/2023) Elser Llanos Vice President of Latin America Programs & Institutional Giving Loziana Vejuka Office Manager Claire Walton Director of Communications Caroline Ziccardi Director of Donor Relations
Phil Guarnieri CEO, Empire State Bank
THE VILLAGE
Herman Hochberg(† 2023)
Cynthia Valle Executive Director of The Village
Lawrence Nibbi CEO, Nibbi Brothers General Contractors
Guadalupe Aguirre Building Manager of The Village
Gabriela Pera Piscopo
Jaqueline Arenales Programs Manager of The Village
Emilie Puzio Realtor Associate, D’Amico & McConnell Realtors – Spring Lake, NJ 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
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Christopher Dowling Director of Community Engagement of The Village
THANK YOU!
Special thanks to all our donors, supporters and to our many incredible volunteers who helped make our annual events and outreach efforts so successful.
Girls from Hogar Santa Rosa de Lima in Cuilapa, Guatemala.
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ANNUAL REPORT
22 23 A Chance In Life
The Village
250 East 63rd Street, Suite 204, New York, NY 10065 Phone: +1 212-980-8770 Email: office@achanceinlife.org Fax: +1 646-863-9985
1100 Castleton Avenue Staten Island, NY 10310 Phone: +1 718-749-0909 Email: thevillage@achanceinlife.org Fax: +1 646-863-9985
We are a 501(c)3 nonprofit, formerly known as Boys' Towns of Italy, Inc. wwww.achanceinlife.org