The Connection A Magazine by Connect Global - Issue 11

ISSUE 11

THE

A MAGAZINE BY CONNECT GLOBAL

Everyday

Generosity

BUILDING GREAT RELATIONSHIPS

THE

A MAGAZINE BY CONNECT GLOBAL

02

EVERYDAY GENEROSITY Acts of generosi ty i n our dai l y routi ne wi l l i mprove the l i ves of those around us

03

BENEFITS OF A NON PROFIT What are the communi ty and soci etal benefi ts of non profi ts

05

IMPACT OF EDUCATION 4 ways educati on i mpacts the devel opment and growth of a nati on

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GREAT RELATIONSHIPS 3 el ements needed to bui l d great rel ati onshi ps

LEADERSHIP

11

The art of cari ng for those i n your charge

COVER PHOTO: Credit Nick Moore via Unsplash, We look at reflections and often see something different than what’s really there BACK COVER PHOTO: Connect Global Board member takes a photo with students in San Juan Pueblo, Honduras on a mission trip in 2022

Editor in Chief Javier Mendoza

Contact PO BOX 47381 Tampa FL 33646

Writers, Contributors, and Editors Danielle Mendoza Casey Raffle Alicia Arthur Lauren Acerra

Text: (844) 397-4679 Email: hello@connectglobal.org Website www.connectglobal.org

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Everyday

Generosity

Performing small acts of kindness and generosity can have a profound impact on the lives of others. Whether it's holding the door open for someone, offering a compliment, or simply lending an ear to someone in need, these acts of kindness can brighten someone's day and bring a smile to their face.

Doing these small things on a regular basis can also help to create a culture of compassion and understanding, making the world a better place for everyone.

Compassion without action is merely an observation. The world has more than enough observers and spectators. Many people care about things like the environment, health, and wellness, or even the safety and success of the next generation, but there is a line between showing care and taking action.

Symptoms of depression or anxiety, mood swings, social withdrawal, and even, feelings of hopelessness can all develop as a result of "feeling" the weight of someone else's loss or tragedy. Forget "walking a mile in their shoes"; just the thought of their journey can be enough to give us anxiety.

How do we deal with this, and what is our best response for a world in need?

We give. We feel. We take action. The only way to begin the process of healing and restoration after trauma or grief is to go through it. Some grief is unavoidable—the death or loss of a

With the access we now have in an everconnected world, we are inundated with more information than ever before in history.

We know more about war or famine or oceanic reefs than our ancestors a generation or two ago would have even been able to imagine. Yet, we are also seeing more isolation, less empathy, and at times a lowkey disdain for knowing the plight of others when we ourselves have so much going on in our own lives to worry and stress over.

parent or an economic downturn—but what can change and is ultimately the only thing within our control is our response.

Will we be there for our neighbors as they deal with sickness, will we take in a child who needs a safe home, and will we take the chance to walk with someone as they fight the battle of their life for their marriage or their child?

Many of us are dealing with really hard things right now, but I will encourage you that the way through these hard things is to give, not hold back. Instead, practice everyday generosity in the face of turmoil.

This compassion fatigue can lead to several

By incorporating small and big acts of generosity into our daily

negative effects in both those who

routine, we can help to improve the lives of those around us and

experience it and the people around them.

bring a little bit of happiness into our circles and the world.

THE CONNECTION MAGAZINE

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2023

THE BENEFITS OF A NON PROFIT ORGANIZATION

by Javier Mendoza

Nonprofit organizations play a vital role in our communities and society as a whole. They are dedicated to serving the public good and working towards a common goal, whether it be providing healthcare services, promoting education, or raising awareness around any other number of important causes.

One of the main benefits of nonprofit organizations is their focus on social impact. Rather than prioritizing profit, these organizations strive to make a positive difference in the lives of those they serve. This can be seen in their work to provide essential services to underserved populations, such as the homeless, refugees, or those living in poverty.

Nonprofit organizations often work to augment the impact of established policy and programming—for example, by ensuring that public or government funds get to those who really need them.

Nonprofits also work to advocate for social justice and equality and to raise awareness about important issues.

Another important aspect of nonprofit organizations is their role as a source of support and resources for those in need.

Many nonprofits offer programs and services that help individuals and communities to overcome challenges and achieve their goals.

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For example, they may offer job training, financial assistance, or counseling services.

Nonprofits also often collaborate with other organizations, churches, and agencies to provide a more comprehensive range of services and support.

In addition to their direct work with individuals and communities, nonprofit organizations play a key role in shaping public policy and advocating for change. They influence decision-making and bring about positive change in areas such as healthcare, education, and the environment.

Overall, nonprofit organizations are an essential part of our society, working to improve the lives of individuals and communities and advocating for important causes.

Here at Connect Global, we provide valuable support and resources as well as developing long-term programs that create a positive social impact and make a meaningful difference in the world.

Our teams are available 24/7 and provide warm beds, hot meals, and clean facilities.

We even work to provide medical exams or specialized medications for the babies in the NICU when possible.

One of the main ways Connect Global is working to make a lasting difference is by providing a comprehensive support system for mothers who have their children in the NICU in Honduras.

This work is outside the purview of local government and other entities and therefore necessary for the people we serve, as they would typically have no other option.

We have seen an increase in the amount of care provided to newborns and the overall viability rate because of the specialized and attentive care we give the mothers facing these challenges.

We are supported by the generosity of individuals and churches who wish to see no one facing the challenges of having their children fight for their lives alone.

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2023

CONNECT GLOBAL

MATERNITY HOME New and Expectant Mothers were displaced while they waited for beds to open up before delivery & were given no room to recover post delivery.

Now, we offer 24/7 support and care for over 600 mothers a year.

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SCAN THE CODE TO LEARN MORE

GIVE WITH US The Maternity Home was opened on September 11, 2019. Our team has been on full time rotation providing 24/7 care for the moms of La Ceiba. We care for over 600 moms a year.

It is great to see the community jump in and serve and give towards this ministry.

Please consider making a monthly donation to help us maintain and operate this ministry to these precious mothers.

SAVING LIVES Mothers from across the northern coast of Honduras, the bay islands, and many underserved communities have a safe and clean Maternity Home to receive 24/7 care in a dignified and safe facility.

YOUR IMPACT When you Give With US by investing in the Maternity Home, you are helping provide life and so much more

DIGNITY AND COMPASSION The Connect Global Maternity Home compassionately restores dignity, safety, and peace of mind where it is needed most.

CONTACT US MAILING ADDRESS

ECONOMIC RESPONSIBILTY

PO BOX 47381 Tampa, FL 33646

Our plan is to share the operational cost responsibilities

PHONE NUMBER

EMAIL ADDRESS

(214) 725-4352

hello@connectglobal.org

with these local partners as well as others who see the value in caring for these moms.

CONNECT GLOBAL EDUCATION FUND

4 Ways Education Contributes to the Development of a Country Connect Global has been investing in education initiatives here in the US and in Central America since 2017 WRITTEN BY JAVIER MENDOZA

Education is a crucial factor in the development of any country, and this is especially true for developing countries. In these nations, education can have a range of important effects that help to drive economic and social progress.

Here are four key ways in which education can contribute to the development of a country: THE CONNECTION MAGAZINE

1

2

3

Improved economic growth:

Reduced poverty:

Enhanced social and political

Education is closely linked to

Education is also closely linked to

development:

economic development, as it can

poverty reduction. When people

Education is not just about

help to increase productivity and

are able to access education, they

economic growth; it is also closely

innovation. When people are

are more likely to improve their

linked to social and political

educated, they are more likely to

economic circumstances and

development. When people are

be able to take on higher-skilled

escape poverty. This is especially

educated, they are more likely to be

jobs and contribute to the economy

true for women and girls, who

able to participate fully in their

in a more meaningful way. In

often face additional barriers to

communities and contribute to

addition, education can help to

education in many developing

decision-making processes.

promote entrepreneurship and

countries. By increasing access to

Education can also help to promote

small-business growth, which can

education, governments can help

critical thinking, which is crucial for

drive economic development at the

to break the cycle of poverty and

the development of a healthy

local level.

promote long-term development.

democracy.

Improved health outcomes:

By investing in education,

We have been able to invest over

Finally, education can have

governments and nonprofit

$200K directly into education

important effects on health

organizations can drive economic

centers, through personnel and

outcomes in developing countries.

growth, reduce poverty, enhance

infrastructure investments.

When people are educated, they

social and political development,

are more likely to understand and

and improve health outcomes.

4

be able to make informed decisions

You can find out more about our efforts on our website:

about their health. They are also

Connect Global continues to

more likely to be able to access

prioritize education as a key

healthcare services and adopt

component of its development

healthy behaviors, which can help

strategies and initiatives.

ConnectGlobal.org/education

to reduce rates of disease and improve overall health outcomes.

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2023

CONNECT GLOBAL EDUCATION FUND

SUPPORT EDUCATION WITH CONNECT GLOBAL

SCAN THE CODE TO LEARN MORE

GIVE WITH US Connect Global has made an impact, thanks to generous people just like YOU! It has long been our desire and one of the guiding pillars of our work around the world to provide quality education to as many people as we can.

Connect Global has provided logistical support, aided in classroom construction and rehabilitation efforts, and we have provided clean water access to schools since 2004.

TEACHER SUPPORT We invest in teachers and educators through grants, payroll assistance, and continuing education programs.

STUDENT SCHOLARSHIPS Full and partial scholarships are awarded to help keep kids who are most vulnerable to dropout in school.

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT Working with leaders, churches, and businesses we can share the responsibilities and success of a more education-focused community.

ECONOMIC STIMULATION While investing in education certainly has individual benefits, the community at large is improved when teachers and administrators are employed.

$58

MONTHLY HELPS US KEEP A STUDENT IN SCHOOL ALL YEAR

YOUR IMPACT When you Give With US by investing in the Global Education Fund, you are helping provide education and so much more

CONTACT US MAILING ADDRESS

PO BOX 47381 Tampa, FL 33646 PHONE NUMBER

EMAIL ADDRESS

(214) 725-4352

hello@connectglobal.org

Sustainability

What are the environmental benefits of aquaponics?

By Javier Mendoza Aquaponics is a sustainable food-growing method that combines aquaculture (the cultivation of fish) with hydroponics (the growing of plants without soil). This method offers a number of environmental benefits over traditional agricultural practices.

Aquaponics uses up to 90% less water than traditional agriculture.

In a traditional farm, water is often lost to evaporation and runoff and must be constantly replenished. However, in an aquaponic system, the water is recycled and reused, making it a much more efficient use of resources. This not only conserves water in already water-deprived areas but also reduces the amount of water pollution caused by agricultural runoff.

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A healthy fish grown from an aquaponic system built by Connect Global National Director, Jorge Amador.

Aquaponics is a closed system, meaning that it does not rely on external inputs such as fertilizer or pesticides.

Instead, fish waste provides a natural source of nutrients for the plants, and beneficial bacteria in the system convert the waste into a form that the plants can use. This eliminates the need for chemical fertilizers and pesticides, which can be harmful to the environment.

Each of our family-sized aquaponic systems can grow several hundreds of pounds of healthy, leafy greens as well as produce hearty fish to eat as well. We are able to build a complete system for $1500

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Aquaponics can be used in urban and remote settings, making it possible to grow food in areas where traditional agriculture is not feasible.

This is especially beneficial for cities, where the lack of space and access to land can make it difficult to grow food locally.

This not only reduces the carbon footprint of transportation but also increases food security in urban areas.

Aquaponics is a more efficient use of land.

Traditional agriculture requires large areas of land to grow crops and often results in the destruction of natural habitats. Aquaponics, on the other hand, can be done in a much smaller area and can even be done in vertical systems, thus saving even more space. This can help preserve natural habitats and biodiversity.

Connect Global has been implementing small, family-sized aquaponic systems in communities across Central America since 2012.

We have built systems with new and used items to make the best use of the land space and available materials.

We have seen success in many of these systems because of the commitment of those who fully understand these environmental benefits as well as the community benefits of a fully functional aquaponic food system.

Finally, aquaponics is a sustainable food source that can support local communities.

By growing food locally, communities can reduce their dependence on imported and overly processed food, which is often grown using unsustainable practices. This not only supports the local economy but also ensures that the food being consumed is fresh and healthy.

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2023

BUILDING GREAT RELATIONSHIPS 3 keys to building great relationships that create an environment where people feel secure, valued, and respected.

by Javier & Danielle Mendoza Great relationships are built on the foundation of trust, stability, and consistency. When these three elements are present, they create an environment where people feel secure, valued, and respected.

Trust is the foundation of all great relationships. It is the belief that the other person is reliable and honest and has your best interests at heart. Without trust, relationships can quickly deteriorate, causing anxiety, suspicion, and conflict. To build trust, it is important to be transparent and open about your thoughts, feelings, and actions. It is also crucial to keep your promises and to always act with integrity.

John C. Maxwell is a renowned speaker, author, and leadership expert. He emphasizes that trust is a critical aspect of any relationship and must be built over time through consistent behavior.

According to Maxwell, trust is built through integrity, honesty, transparency, and the ability to keep one’s promises. He also emphasizes the importance of treating others with respect and being reliable in all situations.

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Maxwell believes that trust is the foundation for building strong relationships and that it is essential for success in both personal and professional life. By building trust through consistent behavior, we create an environment of respect, security, and confidence, which allows relationships to grow and flourish.

Stability also helps to foster a

Brown believes that

sense of comfort and

relationships need stability to

predictability, which is

thrive and that this stability is

essential for building a strong

achieved when people are

and lasting bond. Stability in

willing to be vulnerable with

relationships is crucial for

each other, share their fears

building trust and creating a

and insecurities, and support

sense of security and comfort.

each other through

A stable relationship is one in

challenges. By creating a

which both partners are

stable and supportive

committed to each other and

environment, we can build

work together.

relationships that are strong, resilient, and fulfilling.

The benefits of emotionally safe and stable relationships include: You feel valued and valuable.

You can truly be yourself without the risk of judgment.

You can show your weaknesses without being taken advantage of.

You can share boldly and express yourself freely.

You feel seen, heard, and understood.

Brené Brown is a researcher and author who has studied vulnerability, courage, shame, and empathy. She believes that stability in relationships is built on a foundation of trust, empathy, and vulnerability.

According to Brown, stability

Stability is also an important aspect of

is created when people feel

building great relationships. This means

seen, heard, and understood

having a consistent pattern of behavior,

by their partner. She also

communication, and support. When

emphasizes the importance

people know what to expect from each

of being vulnerable and open

other, they feel secure and confident in

with one’s partner, which

the relationship.

helps to build trust and intimacy.

Consistency is the key to maintaining stability in a relationship. It is the ability to consistently act in a certain way, even in challenging or stressful situations. This can be demonstrated by consistently following through on commitments, showing up for important events, and being reliable in all areas of life. Consistency builds trust and strengthens relationships over time, as people come to know that they can count on each other no matter what.

By working to build trust, stability, and consistency, we can build strong and lasting relationships with those we care about most. When these three elements are present, they create an environment where people feel secure, valued, and respected. Strong relationships are the foundational building blocks of all worthy pursuits. We must get community and relationships right if we are going to make a lasting impact in this world.

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2023

We invite you to join the Connect Global Volunteer Team by sharing your skills and talents with us so we can help more people around the world.

Ways you can volunteer today:

“Coming together is a beginning.

Social Media Creation

Keeping together is progress.

Copy Editing

Working together is success.”

Prayer Team www.connectglobal.org

-Henry Ford

PODCAST

EVERY TUESDAY Check out The Connection Podcast on Spotify, Anchor and anywhere you normally listen to podcasts.

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THE ART OF CARING FOR THOSE IN YOUR CHARGE

by Javier Mendoza Leadership is not about asserting power or being in charge; it’s about serving others and taking care of those in your charge.

This truth, shared by Simon Sinek, perfectly encapsulates the essence of true leadership — it’s about putting the needs of others first and leading by example.

Leadership is about serving others.

A true leader is someone who is willing to put the needs of their team or organization before their own. They understand that their role is to support, guide, and empower others to achieve their goals. A great leader is always willing to lend a helping hand and is always looking for ways to serve others. Leaders make room for others to succeed. They create spaces that encourage the best ideas to take center stage and make it possible for others to feel heard and appreciated.

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"Leadership is not about being in charge. Leadership is about taking care of those in your charge."

—Simon Sinek

Leadership is about taking care of those in your charge. A true leader is someone who cares deeply about the well-being of their team or organization.

They understand that their role is to create a positive and supportive environment where everyone can thrive. A great leader is one who is always looking for ways to improve the lives of those they lead. Care of others is not easy. It takes depth of character to genuinely care for others.

True care for those in your charge is demonstrated not by the results that are achieved but by how you leave someone feeling about themselves, their task, and their leader.

Great leaders are deeply compassionate and empathetic.

They are able to understand the needs of their team and put themselves in others' shoes. They understand that effective leadership is not just about making decisions, but also about caring for the people who make those decisions.

Compassion and empathy are not automatic. Even if you are a truly empathetic person by nature, it takes intentional nurturing of that inclination to truly become not just aware of the plight of others but able to anticipate and to be out ahead of their needs before the need can even be expressed.

FIND MORE ARTICLES LIKE THIS ONE ON MEDIUM Leadership is not about being in charge; it’s about serving others and taking care of those in your charge.

It’s about creating a positive and supportive environment where everyone can thrive. By leading with compassion and empathy, we can help others achieve their goals and positively impact the world.

True leadership is about caring deeply for those you lead and making a positive difference in their lives.

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2023

Wear what matters

The essentials of faith in fashion Make. a new donation to Connect Global of $25 or more this month and we will send you one of the T-shirts below.

Be sure to designate your size and preference of shirt

01

Scan to donate "Came to Serve" "Embrace the message of servant leadership with this stylish and meaningful design. Inspired by Mark 10:45, this shirt features bold lettering that proclaims your commitment to serving others.

Made from soft and comfortable fabric, this shirt is perfect for wearing to church, volunteering at a local charity, or just running errands. With its positive and uplifting message, the "Came to Serve" T-Shirt is a great way to spread joy and make a difference in the world. Wear it proudly and let others know that you came to serve!

"Love God Love Others" Express your faith and your commitment to spreading love with this inspiring and uplifting design. Based on the message found in Matthew 22:37-40, this shirt reminds us of the two greatest commandments: to love God with all our heart, soul, and mind, and to love our neighbors as ourselves. Featuring bold and eye-catching lettering, this shirt is made from high-quality materials for a comfortable and durable fit. The "Love God Love Others" T-Shirt is a great way to share your beliefs and make a positive impact on those around you. Wear it with pride and show your love for God and others

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Partner With Us It is your generosity that allows us to impact so many lives. Whether you are giving towards a specific project or to where it is needed most, you can rest assured Connect Global will make sure every donation is used for maximum impact.

We take our work very seriously and we operate responsibly. We have focused on learning as much as we can about the issues we tackle and we invest our time, energy, and resources smartly and with great care.

We personally visit the places you see on our website and will always take great care in reporting to you our successes as well as our failures on the field.

We keep You, our partners, informed of the ongoing programs and share the joy of each completed project. Our monthly updates to donors as well as our public communication via social media give everyone the chance to understand the work we are committed to.

We are committed to the highest standards for the use of funds. We use the donations for the purpose, for which they are given. We keep our administrative and fundraising costs as low as possible.

We provide food for the hungry, hope for the hopeless, and a place for people to become who they were created to be. We invite you to join us by giving and also by visiting the places we serve.

You will be glad you did.

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CONNECTION A MAGAZINE BY CONNECT GLOBAL

text (844) 397-4679 email: hello@connectglobal.org www.connectglobal.org