It is a profound honor to step into this role to serve the mission of Peace and Hope International.
I want to begin by expressing my profound gratitude. Gratitude for Nina Balmaceda, who built something remarkable here over years of faithful, visionary leadership. And gratitude for you, whose generosity and partnership made that work possible.
Many of you may know me from my role as PHI’s Director of Capacity Development. I have had the privilege of working alongside Nina and the PHI team for the past five years, watching this organization grow in reach, credibility, and depth of relationship across Latin America. I have seen what your support makes possible – not in the abstract, but up close, living in Huánuco, Peru with my wife and daughters, walking alongside the children, the families and the communities that Peace and Hope (Paz y Esperanza) serves every day. We are eye witnesses of the transformation taking place! This mission is not a job to me. It is a calling.
Nina leaves this organization healthy and well-positioned – with its largest fundraising year in history and a clear strategic foundation for the years ahead. I do not take that inheritance lightly.
I step into this role with deep respect for what has come before and genuine excitement for what lies ahead. The work of Paz y Esperanza – legal services and holistic care for survivors, trauma healing and pastoral care, peacebuilding, advocacy for indigenous rights and environmental justice – is as urgent as ever. I am committed to it with everything I have.
Later this fall we’ll be hosting a virtual event for PHI, and I’d love the opportunity to meet you. Watch for an invitation with dates soon.
Thank you for your trust and your belief in this work.
With hope and gratitude,
Jonathan Raber
Executive Director
