Don’s Thoughts

Day 2 in Guatemala City

Today was another emotional day. We traveled to Garbage City Dump, where we met a woman named Pastora Mercedes and learned her story. Pastora runs a feeding center funded by Transforming Futures that over 400 children depend on for food each day. Even seeing it in action, it’s hard to grasp how she’s able to do it day in and day out, especially as her own life isn’t without challenges. Her selfless dedication to the children and the warmth with which she does this work were beyond inspirational. Her story reminded us all of the immense impact of even the smallest acts of kindness.

While we were there, we met with nine local families who depend on Pastora’s work. As they told us about the daily challenges they face, we were reminded of the resilience of the human spirit. Through an inspiring devotional, we shared moments of faith and hope, forging connections that transcended language barriers.

After our visit with Pastora, we visited a state-run orphanage for boys, a visit none of us will soon forget. The first thing everyone noticed was how severely overcrowded it was–45 boys sharing a living space designed for only 20. It’s hard to imagine just how crowded that is without seeing it. Despite their harsh environment, they gave us an incredibly warm welcome and even shared their talents with us–one boy even gave us a performance worthy of a standing ovation!

We ended the night with alumni students of the Transforming Futures program, listening to their incredible stories of perseverance. Hearing them reflect on their accomplishments and detail their struggles was a reminder of the inherent strength within each of us and how each one of us has an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others.

Day 3 in Guatemala City

Today, we traveled to the rural village of Palencia and visited a school sponsored by Transforming Futures to bring education to previously unreached areas. Many of the families whose children attend this school have very little, including something so many people take for granted each night–mattresses. While we couldn’t solve every need for these families, we were able to build bunk beds for two of the village families. It was humbling to see how grateful the children were for a spot of their own to sleep, such a basic human necessity that they just never had.

One of our favorite parts of the day was playing soccer with some of the children. It’s so rewarding to see these kids who face such adversity have some time when they can just be kids. After the game, we surprised them with Beanie Babies, letting them each pick their favorite. It’s truly amazing to see the joy you can spread with such a small act of kindness.

After saying our goodbyes to the children in Palencia, we headed back to the Training Center, where we met a group of teenagers from a local orphanage who had taken part in some of the programs Transforming Futures offers. We surprised them with a trip to the local bowling alley, somewhere many of them had never been. The trip was a huge hit! Everyone was laughing, cheering, and high-fiving as they bowled for the first time.

After bowling, the Transforming Futures team accompanied us on a surprise trip to a sneaker store where they each got to pick out a pair of shoes. It was immensely humbling to see how overjoyed they were–and also how foreign the concept was. Many of them didn’t know what size shoe they wore and didn’t realize that they didn’t just have to find one that fits from the wall. It was an important reminder to all of us just how much we take for granted without realizing it, and something we'll never forget.

Stay Tuned...

I hope sharing these stories has left you feeling inspired. I invite you to visit our DLP Positive Returns Foundation website to see the organizations we support and ways you can get involved. I also encourage you to visit the Transforming Futures website to learn more about the incredible work they’re doing in Guatemala City.

I look forward to sharing our experience in Belize, Panama, and Costa Rica in upcoming editions of Don's Thoughts.

On Purpose Program

If you've been following me for a while, you know that I attribute my success in large part to my commitment to living intentionally, or on purpose. Today, I'm thrilled to introduce you to a new opportunity for you to do just that through the On Purpose Program, powered by the Halftime Institute.

We all have a purpose, but you’re not alone if you haven’t quite figured it out yet. Sure, life is great! But deep down, you know you’re destined for something greater that you’ve yet to tap into.

That’s where On Purpose comes in.

What is On Purpose?

A game-changing program that equips you to identify and live out the purpose you were made for — within the rhythms of the life you live, and the capacity you have, today.

On Purpose is a once-a-month, cohort-based program designed to fit into your everyday life. It helps you to close the gap between where you are now and who God made you to be.

Develop new skills, perspectives, habits, and community that fit your day, enhance your life, and maximize your impact on the world around you.

What to Expect?

• Develop your plan. Get clear on your purpose and priorities and create a pragmatic personal action plan that empowers you to maximize the life you live, today.
• Find your fellow travelers. Connect with peers on a similar journey and guides who have been in your shoes who can help you get there, together.
• Live your purpose. Learn how to weave your purpose into all of the aspects and rhythms of the everyday life you live now, naturally.

The On Purpose Cohort Experience

• 1 in-person launch session during the DLP Building an Extraordinary Family Event in June.
• 4 virtual cohort gatherings facilitated by an experienced guide and typically held monthly.
• 4 individual coaching sessions delivered one-on-one to meet you where you are on your personal journey.
• 1 in-person final session during the DLP Extraordinary Impact and Legacy Event in November.

Living on purpose isn’t something that has to wait until later. The adventure of living your God-called life can start now. Click the link below to get started.

DISCLOSURE

Statements are those of Don Wenner/DLP Capital only and are not guaranteed, nor should such statements be relied upon. Forward-looking statements are expressions and beliefs of DLP Capital and should not be relied upon. Past performance is not a guarantee of future performance. Nothing in this is a solicitation or offer of solicitation. All investments in any DLP Capital Sponsored Fund are to be made after review of the PPM, OA, and subscription agreement. DLP Capital is not providing tax advice. Consult your tax and legal professional before making any investment decisions.