Over 10 million Americans experience domestic violence every year with 1 in 4 women and 1 and 8 men being affected in their lives. This year for my birthday I am raising money for Paz y Esperanza, a human rights organization in Medellín, Colombia that supports indigenous women and children affected by the over 5-decade-long armed conflict and domestic violence crimes of the country. I am traveling to Medellín this October to learn firsthand about Paz y Esperanza's economic strategies for supporting affected communities, while also conducting field research through interviews with local residents and workers. This is a very personal project to me, as domestic violence against women and children is a topic close to my heart. My focus is on learning what it looks like to handle devastating conflicts in a hands-on way to use in my future career in mental health, nationally and internationally.

The ongoing political conflict in Colombia is a complex struggle involving government forces, guerrilla groups, paramilitaries, and criminal organizations that are rooted in political, social, and economic inequalities. These issues have displaced millions of people who have been forced to build homes in unstable, high-risk areas on steep slopes, making them extremely vulnerable to natural disasters. In June 2025, deadly mudslides devastated communities. Most recently, Paz y Esperanza, in collaboration with local governments, have been providing aid and resources to people affected, primarily women and children.

A $20 donation would provide 2 meals for a family of four.

Thank you for any donation you are able to provide and I will be documenting my trip on instagram at @bethanyguerrero_. I'm so thankful for the support of family and friends and appreciate all prayers for my health and safety!

For my familia:

El Señor es mi fuerza y mi escudo; mi corazón en él confía; de él recibo ayuda. Mi corazón salta de alegría, y con cánticos le daré gracias. Psalm 28:7

The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him.

More info on Paz y Esperanza below: https://www.pazyesperanza.org/co/

https://peaceandhopeinternational.org