In the beginning, there are always the first pillars of a mission.
In 1997, our own beginnings consisted of a few suitcases in hand, a call from the heart, an unshakable trust in God, and a passion for these young people who came to us seeking a listening ear, comfort, and renewed strength.
Our first pillars were these young women who, from the very beginning, transformed our initial plans to care for children. From the very start, flexibility, agility, and the ability to adapt to on-the-ground needs were essential. They asked for neither pity nor sympathy, but a safe place where they could be heard as they shared the pain of their experiences of abandonment, violence, and traumatic abuse—a place that would serve as a gateway to a normal life, giving them the strength to get back on their feet and take control of their lives. Thus was born the School of Life: a safe space to become oneself, a space of generosity, and the Metamorpho.sYs Journey method, which empowers each young person to be the agent of their own transformation.
Our pillars were also those young street children who would run toward us in the impoverished neighborhoods of Quiapo and Recto. It was they who led us to discover the world of juvenile detention, where we implemented an innovative support program that has enabled 90% of the young people in our reintegration program to avoid reoffending.
Above all else, these young people asked us, in a “subtle whisper,” for the gift of our lives. We gave it to them, along with many professionals and volunteers who have joined us over the years. We were convinced that within these spaces of suffering, we would see the splendor of Life.
For nearly 30 years, we have witnessed these transformations in the lives of young people, here in the Philippines, and now also in France.
So, welcome to the ACAY mission!
