The Behtany Gymnasium Foundation, as a non-profit organization and a tool of the Bethany Church of the Reformation "Labranza de Dios" of Villavicencio, first church founded by the ministry of National Evangelical Mission, Inc., decided to serve the Lord and expand His kingdom in Villavicencio by means of serving children at risk, the victims of all kinds of abuse, the displaced by violence and those submerged in extreme poverty.
Unfortunately, the political and administrative corruption prevalent in our country and therefore our city, caused our project to fail even though the Mayor had guaranteed the Foundation that we would continue on with the educational and social and spiritual assistance for children.
It was a year of great accomplishments, sometimes with frustrations, especially due to the shortage of funds, because we had determined to be a testimony of how one can serve the people even when scarce resources were used well. We accomplished what we set out to do, with God's blessing and grace. San Isidro, the Satellite Plaza for a produce market was erected. Some 300 street vendors were relocated here. We taught 70 of their children, feeding them a balanced diet daily, loving and training them, and we tried to educate their parents to improve their family and work, especially in the care of their children. The children received medical attention. Medical and dental records were prepared and updated on each child, basic medical and dental treatments were given. Nevertheless, it was impossible for the Foundation to obtain $5,000 for the cost of the treatments and follow up for the health of these children. Neither the government nor the church were able to raise the funds. The entire program was free, with the Foundation organizing teams, running the headquarters and the administration with very little money, of which we accounted for even the last penny. Our accounts were examined and approved by the auditor.
The children at risk from Plaza San Isidro were left with no educational program, as well as their parents; we were never able to receive another 130 children at risk which the Mayor had asked us to take on,
from other problem areas. The Mayor had seen our dedication to work on behalf of the children.
We are saddened by all this. But we believe God is in control. We know that all things work for good. We will continue to wait for the Lords direction, His comfort and provision.
Thank you for being with us in this effort through the year 2009.
