Our Vision
The vision of Chispas of Change is to reach and disciple children, teenagers, and young adults who have grown up in dysfunctional or broken families, especially those who have been abandoned by their parents or who have special needs, teaching them to honor Jesus’ teachings. The objective of this vision is to equip these young people with the tools needed to become self-sufficient adults so that they can transform their future generations.
Our Mission
The mission of Chispas of Change is three-part: Christian discipleship, education, and nutrition. Christian discipleship simply means building relationships while teaching God’s Word. This takes place by way of Bible study and athletic activities (soccer, running, weightlifting). Education consists of a daily homeschool program (elementary, middle, and high school) that allows vulnerable children and teenage street vendors to continue in their studies. The nutrition supplement is provided by way of a daily breakfast and lunch.
Our Story
Since 2016, we have connected vulnerable children with the hope of Jesus through Discipleship, Education, and Nutrition. We have created opportunities for young people to continue in their education, and are equipping them to become ambassadors for Jesus Christ in Guatemala.
It all started when we met street vendor children in 2016 in the streets of Antigua, Guatemala. These precious little ones are exposed to drugs, alcoholism, and unspeakable abuse starting at a very young age. Our hearts were burdened when a boy named Manuel told us that he wanted to give up drugs and get back in school. We knew that traditional, public education wouldn’t be enough to meet the deep needs of Manuel’s heart. God guided us to a Guatemalan homeschool program, and Chispas of Change was born.
For the past seven years, we have provided dozens of vulnerable children with a safe place to meet Jesus, continue their academic education, develop vocational skills, and grow physically with two nutritious meals a day. God has been faithful in providing us with a passionate Guatemalan staff and generous supporters who make this dream possible month by month.
Meet Our Staff
Callie Luckadoo López
Executive Director
A native of North Carolina, Callie cofounded Chispas of Change in 2018 with her husband, Estuardo. With a background in Public Accounting and a passion for justice, she felt called by God to take action after encountering children working on the streets of Antigua. Today, she leads the ministry with diligence and perseverance.
Estuardo López
Program Director
Serving as our Program Director in Guatemala, Estuardo is a Jesus-loving Chapín to his core. He is both a dreamer and a doer, with a huge heart for evangelism, counseling children in crisis, and being a father figure to the fatherless through teaching practical skills. Additionally, he teaches Bible class and coaches the soccer team at Chispas.
Mrs. Gaby
Teacher
Mrs. Gaby teaches middle and high school at Chispas of Change with incredible patience and perseverance. She met Jesus through teaching the Bible to her students right here at Chispas! Now, God uses her to empower her students to share the Gospel with their families and friends. Mrs. Gaby joined the Chispas of Change family in 2020.
Mrs. Betsi
Teacher
Mrs. Betsi teaches 5th grade at Chispas. She does a phenomenal job of keeping her students’ attention through dynamic teaching methods. As a mother to three precious kiddos, she is especially gifted at working with preteens. Mrs. Betsi joined the Chispas family in 2021.
Ms. Melissa
Teacher
Ms. Melissa fills her 1st and 2nd grade classroom with singing and laughter, helping first-time students adapt to the Chispas family with grace. Her creative use of song and play to promote literacy and teamwork is truly inspiring. Ms. Melissa joined us in 2023.
Ms. Tania
Teacher
Ms. Tania is orderly and sincere in her teaching, bringing the Bible to life for young readers! At Chispas, she adds a special touch by doing intricate braids for the girls on their birthdays. Ms. Tania is highly adaptable and has taught every grade from Pre-K through 4th since joining the Chispas family in 2023.
Mr. Lester
Vocational Teacher
Mr. Lester is humble and loyal. He teaches welding, carpentry, computer skills, and a range of practical trades at Chispas. With a special gift for helping children with special needs learn vocational skills, he plays a unique role in their development. Mr. Lester joined the Chispas family in 2020.
Ms. Paola
Special Needs Teacher
Ms. Paola is a gifted Guatemalan Sign Language (LENSEGUA) teacher and interpreter. She has given our deaf student a voice and joyfully teaches our special needs students with a growth mindset, believing in the God-given potential every child. Ms. Paola has been with us since 2023.
Mr. Eddy
Group Home Discipler
Mr. Eddy is a faithful servant of Jesus. He spends his days teaching the Bible and mentoring young men at public group homes for teenage boys in Guatemala City. When at Chispas, he serves as Teacher Assistant in our Special Needs class. Mr. Eddy joined the Chispas family in 2024.
Mrs. Lily
Cook
Affectionately known as "Mama Lily," Mrs. Lily prepares breakfast and lunch each day with love and care. As she cooks, she prays for our students' spiritual growth and physical well-being, inspiring us all with her dedication to prayer. Mrs. Lily joined the Chispas family in 2019.
Ms. Jenifer
Secretary
Ms. Jenifer keeps everything running smoothly behind the scenes. A 2021 Chispas graduate, she is now pursuing a degree in Speech Therapy. Each day, she supports students through tutoring and staying involved with their families. Ms. Jenifer joined Chispas as a student in 2020.