Until the age of eight, Geraro Ballesteros Mendez lived a typical childhood. But everything changed when he was struck with cerebral meningitis—a life-altering illness that forever changed the course of his and his family’s life.
The illness left Geraro with a severe motor disability. His legs and hands don’t function as they once did, and he now experiences seizures and involuntary movements that often cause him to fall. He cannot be left alone, and his mother, Amavilla, remains by his side while his sister works to support the family.
Ten years ago, the Ballesteros Mendez family migrated to Tijuana in search of a better future. But their journey took a tragic turn when Amavilla’s husband passed away unexpectedly just three years later. Since then, life has been a daily challenge.
On May 17, their story took a hopeful turn thanks to the compassionate volunteers from First Christian Church of Burbank and Little Brown Church. Rising before dawn, the team made the journey to East Tijuana to build a new home for the family.
Geraro, beaming with joy, proudly took part in the painting—his smile a powerful reminder that ability comes in many forms.
This incredible group has been building with us for years, and we were thrilled to welcome both familiar faces and new volunteers. Led by the ever-energetic Kevin Connolly, the team brought enthusiasm, laughter, and love to the build site.
You built more than walls—you built a future. Thank you to our incredible volunteers who helped give Geraro and his family a safe place to call home.
