A Year of Impact
2024 Annual Report
Leadership Transition at Nicolás Fund for Education: A Reflection on Healthy Governance At Nicolás Fund for Education (NFE), our commitment to healthy governance practices is essential for the success and longevity of our mission. The governance principle of term limits for board officers fosters fresh perspectives and dynamic leadership. It signifies a robust and forward-thinking organization that embraces change as a path to growth. Term limits ensure that leadership continues to evolve with new ideas that can elevate the organization’s work to new heights. Having reached my term limit after six years of serving as President and Board Chair of NFE, I find myself reflecting on this remarkable chapter. It has been an honor and a privilege to lead this incredible organization in our mission to empower Mayan youth from the Ixil region of Guatemala. Together, through Christ-centered education, we have made meaningful strides toward breaking the generational cycle of poverty in their communities. Over the past six years, I have witnessed extraordinary contributions from our academic staff, unwavering dedication from our volunteers, and the incredible generosity of our donors—people like you who share our vision and belief in the potential of these young lives. It's thanks to this collective effort that we've achieved so much. I am delighted to announce that Al Lopus, one of NFE’s co-founders and a passionate advocate for our mission, has assumed the roles of President and Board Chair as of January 1, 2025. As a co-founder of the Nicolás Fund for Education, Al brings a deep understanding of our organization’s roots, along with the skills and vision to lead us into this exciting next chapter. While my term has come to an end, I am filled with immense pride for all that NFE has accomplished, and I feel great optimism for its future. NFE is in extraordinarily capable hands, and I look forward with excitement to seeing what the next chapters hold for our mission. With Al Lopus stepping in as the new President and Board Chair, I am confident that NFE will continue to grow and flourish in its mission to serve Mayan youth. To our donors, supporters, and academic staff, you have all been essential to this organization’s success. Your continued support will enhance the work of empowering Mayan youth and transforming lives in ways that extend far beyond the Ixil region. On a personal note, I am incredibly grateful for the friendships I have formed during my time as President. The connections I’ve established with so many of you will always hold a special place in my heart. With profound gratitude, Becci Merritt President Emerita Nicolás Fund for Education
NFE remains rooted in both wisdom and fresh vision.
Sabrina, a Nicolás Christian School student, joins in prayer with March 2024 Mission Team members—embodying faith, hope, and the power of community on her remarkable educational journey.
Our mission to empower Mayan youth through Christ-centered education will not only endure but grow stronger.
President's Letter
Empowering Mayan youth to break the generational cycle of poverty in the Ixil region of Guatemala through Christ-centered education.
WHO WE ARE Nicolás Fund for Education is an educational and discipleship ministry dedicated to working with children, families, and their villages in the Ixil area of Guatemala reach their full potential by overcoming the causes of poverty and injustice. WHAT WE DO Motivated by our faith in Jesus Christ, we serve alongside the poor, oppressed and war damaged as a demonstration of God’s love. HOW WE SERVE We provide hope through a high-quality, Christ-centered education—beginning with preschool programs, 6th-grade tutoring, village libraries, a comprehensive junior and senior high school education, and scholarships available for university education. WHO WE SERVE First, we walk alongside indigenous Mayan children whose families have endured generations of poverty. In response, we seek justice by standing with them—offering education, opportunity, and hope—as a tangible expression of God’s love. Second, we serve individuals and families largely from the Seattle area who desire to grow in their Christian faith by serving the poor. Through immersive discipleship mission trips, participants experience personal spiritual growth while engaging directly in the life-changing work of educational transformation.
Dear Friend of Nicolás Fund For Education, Your generosity and commitment to the Nicolás Fund for Education (NFE) have brought life-changing opportunities to the Ixil community, and for that, we are deeply grateful. Reflecting on this past year, we are in awe of what God has accomplished through your faithful partnership. Together, we are doing more than transforming lives—we are sowing seeds of hope, education, and faith that will bear fruit for future generations. A Year of Impact, Thanks to You This year, we celebrated milestones that highlight the power of your support: 44 Graduates: These students are not merely completing their education—they are breaking the chains of generational poverty. With 69% of graduates earning above the poverty line, your support is fostering true economic empowerment. Completion of the New School Campus: A vital foundation for the future. This world-class facility is fully equipped to welcome 300 students annually, providing a Christ-centered space for learning and growth. Academic Excellence: Eighty-eight percent of our 11th graders passed college admission tests, showcasing the strength of an education grounded in faith and diligence. From the students mastering Reading & Math to the proud father celebrating his child’s academic achievements, every success story showcases your influence. You are building a legacy of change in the Ixil region. Looking Forward with Faith and Purpose As we celebrate these blessings, we recognize that God’s work through NFE is far from complete. Together, we are called to move forward, broadening our reach and enhancing our impact. With your ongoing partnership, here’s our vision for the next chapter: Reach More Students: With our new school fully operational, we aim to double our enrollment to 300 students by 2029, providing even more young hearts and minds with the tools they need to thrive. Empower Through Vocational Training: By 2029, we plan to launch new agribusiness and construction programs and build a vocational center, equipping students with practical skills for meaningful careers. Ensure Long-term Stability: By establishing a $5 million endowment by 2035 and doubling our annual revenue, we will secure the resources necessary to provide sustainable, high-quality education for future generations. Support Christ-Centered Growth: Daily devotions, Christian camps, and mission trips will further deepen faith within the NFE family and cultivate a community firmly grounded in God’s provision. Every future graduate, every community leader empowered through education, every life touched by Christ’s love—these outcomes are possible because of you. Join Us in Transforming the Future As we prepare for what lies ahead, your role remains vital. Your prayers, encouragement, and financial support form the foundation of our mission. This year alone, participants in mission trips from around the world have deepened their faith through fellowship with our Ixil students and families. These moments of connection not only build individuals but also foster a global Christian community. We invite you to continue this life-changing partnership by supporting the growth and transformation of NFE. Whether it’s making a donation, participating in a mission trip, or sharing information about NFE within your own circles, every action advances our shared vision of a thriving Ixil community anchored in hope and guided by faith. With God's guidance and your ongoing commitment, we can transform these ambitious dreams into reality. The Ixil students and their families are counting on us, and together, we will not let them down. Thank you for standing with us in this mission of love, faith, and transformation. We are truly blessed to have you as part of the NFE family. With gratitude and hope, Al Lopus, President
A Vision for 2025
Student's earned the Polaris Award for achievements in reading, comprehension, and math!
On the final day of the 2024 school year, a proud father celebrates his son's achievements—final grades and commitment to the carpentry workshop.
Did you know that fewer than 10% of rural indigenous students in Guatemala have access to a university education? Many of these young people grow up in remote villages where opportunities like a university education feel like a distant dream. Their communities are often marked by poverty, limited resources, and isolation. The Ten Talents Program was created to provide financial support to graduates of Nicolás Christian School, empowering them to pursue higher education. By offering scholarships that cover crucial expenses such as tuition, housing, supplies, and ancillary expenses, Ten Talents opens doors that would otherwise remain closed for some of the most deserving students in Guatemala. But Ten Talents is about more than financial assistance—it’s a partnership. Each student must reapply annually, which ensures a commitment to academic excellence. Additionally, recipients are required to give back to their communities, creating a ripple effect of transformation. Here are the inspiring stories of a few Ten Talents recipients who are breaking barriers and helping to shape a brighter future.
Scan to read more about Barb’s inspiring story.
Wrapped in prayer and Christian fellowship, Barb Martin embraces a Nicolás Christian School student—a witness to God’s provision and the transformation unfolding here. From students to teachers, Barb has seen the seeds of faith blossom across generations.
Andrés Rivera – Future Motivational Speaker and Psychologist Andrés Rivera, from the remote Agros village of Belen, is pursuing his bachelor's degree in Psychology at Universidad Rafael Landívar in Huehuetenango. His dream? To inspire and empower others as a motivational speaker. Thanks to a full scholarship from his university, Andrés has his tuition, housing, meals, and enrollment fees covered. The Ten Talents Program provides an additional $570 per year to cover essential items such as books, supplies, and insurance. Now in the fourth year of his five-year program, Andrés is excelling academically and is more committed than ever to his goal. Ana Elcy – Aspiring School Psychologist Hailing from the village of Los Angeles, Ana Elcy is making impressive strides as a third-year student in Psychology at Universidad Rafael Landívar. With a full university scholarship and $570 annually from Ten Talents to support additional expenses, she is focused on achieving her dream of becoming a school psychologist. Ana's dedication to her studies and her vision for helping children is a testament to the power of education. She ranks among the top students in her class. Elías Andres – Championing Social Work Elías Andres is in the final year of his five-year Social Work program at the University of Rural Guatemala in Nebaj. Growing up in a rural environment himself, Elías understands the challenges faced by his community and aspires to create meaningful change. The Ten Talents Program supports his education with $712 per year to assist with his academic costs, ensuring he can focus on his studies and future. Ronaldo – Building a Future through Civil Engineering Ronaldo’s passion for engineering has taken him to Universidad Rafael Landivar in Quetzaltenango where he is studying Civil Engineering on a full-ride scholarship. The Ten Talents Program provides $285 per year to help cover his internet expenses, ensuring he remains connected and can thrive in his studies. Ronaldo’s work promises to contribute to the infrastructure and development of his community, and he hopes to join his father in his masonry business after graduating. Rosa Krystel – Healing Communities One Patient at a Time Rosa Krystel is studying to become a primary care nurse technician at Universidad Rafael Landivar in Quiché. Supported by the Ten Talents Program with an annual funding of $1,140, Rosa is progressing through her four-year program, equipping herself with the skills and knowledge needed to provide life-changing medical care to underserved communities. Vanesa Britalin– Unraveling Justice with Forensic Science Vanesa Britalin, also from the village of Los Angeles, is pursuing a degree in Criminal (Forensic) Science at Mariano Gálvez University in Quiché. Her passion for justice and her Ten Talents scholarship of $1,145 per year drive her toward her goal of becoming a skilled forensic expert, ready to contribute to justice and security in her community. Why Your Support Matters Behind every Ten Talents scholarship is a donor who believes in the transformative power of education. These stories showcase just a few of the remarkable students who are forging their own futures against the odds. By funding scholarships, you’re not just supporting a single student—you’re empowering their future families and entire communities. These bright minds will become psychologists, engineers, social workers, and nurses who uplift the villages they come from, creating a cycle of opportunity and hope. Join us in turning dreams into reality. Be the spark that illuminates the path for the next generation of leaders in Guatemala.
Our Impact
Transforming Dreams into Reality: How Ten Talents is Opening Doors for Rural Indigenous Students in Guatemala for University Education
A Nicolás Christian School student pours his heart into a writing prompt at a desk topped with a vibrant, hand-woven tapestry, both of which were crafted by a classmate. Every detail in this photo tells a story of the hope that a Christ-centered education brings to the Ixil region. This illustrates what empowering Mayan youth looks like, as they build skills and gain confidence to break the cycle of generational poverty.
Our Programs
Nicolás Christian School Nicolás Christian School stands as a beacon of hope in the Ixil region, offering a comprehensive, Christ-centered education that nurtures academic excellence and spiritual growth. On our state-of-the-art campus, students are welcomed into a supportive Christian community where they develop the knowledge, character, and faith needed to become compassionate leaders. Through a robust curriculum and dedicated fellowship, we are committed to equipping young people to transform their own lives and, in turn, uplift their families and villages for generations to come. Ten Talents Scholarship Program The Ten Talents Scholarship Program extends the blessing of education to promising Ixil youth, breaking down financial barriers so they can pursue higher education and vocational dreams. With God’s provision, these scholarships empower recipients to become leaders equipped with knowledge and Christian character. Each scholarship serves as a tangible expression of love and support from the global Christian fellowship, illuminating a path toward personal transformation and community impact. Vocational Training Our Vocational Training initiative equips students with practical and entrepreneurial skills grounded in Christian values. Through programs in carpentry, agribusiness, and construction, individuals acquire tools for sustainable employment and economic independence. This initiative prepares graduates to build a future not only for themselves but also to serve and strengthen their broader communities. Early Childhood Education The Early Childhood Education program provides a nurturing, faith-filled environment where young children in the Ixil region embark on their educational journeys. Guided by love, we assist each child in establishing a strong academic and spiritual foundation, fostering curiosity, character, and a sense of belonging within a caring Christian community. This early investment guarantees a brighter, more resilient future for every child and their family. Adult Literacy Program Through our Adult Literacy Program, we open doors for adults in the Ixil region to fully participate in society and become advocates for their families' education. The program empowers adults with essential reading and writing skills, fostering dignity, confidence, and a renewed sense of hope. Literacy is more than a skill; it is a path to greater opportunities, personal growth, and the strength to advocate for future generations. Village Libraries The Village Libraries initiative brings the gift of knowledge directly to Ixil communities by establishing accessible, well-resourced libraries. Each library serves as a welcoming space for fellowship, where both children and adults develop literacy, enhance their Spanish language skills, and cultivate a love for lifelong learning. Thanks to the generosity of donors, these spaces transform into incubators for imagination, cultural enrichment, and hope. Village Tutoring Village Tutoring provides individualized academic support to elementary students, empowering them to pursue further education at Nicolás Christian School confidently. By establishing strong educational foundations and offering caring mentorship, we help children discover their God-given potential. This initiative ensures that every child has the support, encouragement, and tools to succeed, preparing them to be beacons of hope in their communities. Teacher Professional Development Our Teacher Professional Development program invests in the ongoing growth and excellence of Nicolás Christian School and local educators. Through continual training, teachers enhance their instructional skills, increasing their ability to inspire and guide students. By nurturing strong educators within a supportive community, we ensure that every classroom becomes a place of high-quality learning and Christ-centered transformation.
Give Generously 1. Donate Financially Every gift, regardless of its size, directly supports student scholarships, school resources, teacher training, and a Christ-centered curriculum. One-time or recurring donations provide stability, enabling us to plan for growth with confidence. 2. Give Stocks or Mutual Funds Maximize your impact by donating appreciated assets. This method helps you avoid capital gains tax while providing crucial resources for NFE’s mission. 3. Legacy Giving Ensure your commitment to empowering the lives of Mayan youth endures. By including NFE in your will or estate plans, you help secure a Christ-centered education for generations to come. 4. Matching Gifts Double your generosity! Many employers offer matching gift programs. Check with your workplace to see if your donation to NFE is eligible, and amplify God’s impact through your giving. Volunteer Your Time 1. Join a Mission Trip Experience God’s work in the Ixil region firsthand. NFE Mission Trips are life-changing encounters designed for personal growth and spiritual development. Past participants often describe the journey as “mutually transformative.” Church groups are particularly encouraged to consider this avenue for discipleship and cross-cultural fellowship. 2. Lend Your Talents NFE provides various volunteer opportunities that support our community and enhance our mission. Explore Volunteer Opportunities at nicolasfund.org/volunteer. Amplify Our Mission in Your Community 1. Social Media Ambassador Share NFE’s updates, student stories, and milestones with your friends and family. By becoming a Social Media Ambassador, you expand our Christian community and invite others into God’s story of hope for the Ixil region. 2. Church Ambassador Deepen the bond between your church and NFE by championing our mission from the pulpit, in small groups, or through church newsletters. Encourage your faith community to pray, fundraise, or participate in mission trips together. Partnering in this way builds lasting fellowship and multiplies the impact exponentially.
Strengthening God’s Provision through Community By engaging as a donor, volunteer, ambassador, or mission partner, you become part of a community that is both resilient and hopeful. You help plant seeds of transformation that will bear fruit for generations, both in the lives of Ixil youth and in your own faith walk.
Ways to Get Involved
Empowering Mayan youth in the Ixil region of Guatemala to break the generational cycle of poverty is at the heart of the Nicolás Fund for Education (NFE). Through Christ-centered education, we unlock hope, foster leadership, and build stronger communities. However, this mission thrives due to the fellowship of supporters, donors, church groups, and volunteers who walk alongside us in faith and service. If you feel called to play a role in transforming lives and honoring God’s provision, here are meaningful ways you can get involved:
Will You Answer the Call? God continues to provide for Nicolas Fund for Education through the openness, generosity, and service of people just like you. Whether through financial gifts, hands-on volunteering, sharing our story, or forming church partnerships, your involvement is an answer to prayer and a testament to Christ’s love in action. To learn more or take your next step, visit nicolasfund.org/volunteer or contact us at info@nicolasfund.org. Together, guided by faith and united in purpose, we can empower a new generation to flourish.
OPERATING REVENUE
2024
2023
School Funding
$442,473
$425,979
Investments
$43,558
$76,829
Trip Deposits Net Revenue
$6,017
$5,301
Total Operating Revenue
$492,047
$508,110
Financial Highlights
Net Assets, 2024: NFE's objective for financially liquidity is to operate in a prudent range of stability that allows us to meet our future program commitments, including the operating revenue for the next school year. Thanks to you, NFE remains financially strong, with sufficient financial liquidity and reserves to fulfill the operation of the Nicolás Christian School's ongoing program.
OPERATING EXPENSES
Total School Expenses
$380,755
$386,063
Management & General
$24,296
$24,457
Fundraising
$29,978
$23,305
Total Operating Expenses
$435,026.69
$433,825.83
Board of Directors
Al Lopus, President and CEO Co-Founder and Board Chair of Best Christian Workplaces Institute (BCW); 30+ years in human resources, expert on flourishing workplace cultures, speaker, author (“Road to Flourishing”), and consultant. Dedicated to missions and co-founded the Nicolás Fund for Education. Paul Selvig, Vice-President IT Manager at an international early childhood education company, University of Washington graduate. Core passion is educational equity for Guatemalan youth; active leader on family and community mission trips to the Ixil region. Carrie Nordberg, Secretary; Resource Development & Communications Co-Chair BSc in Cell & Molecular Biology (University of Washington); certificate in Specialty Desserts and Artisan Breads. Worked 17 years at Seattle’s Crisis Clinic (suicide hotline); currently in admissions at Bear Creek School, swim coach, church volunteer. Dedicated to service with experience in Guatemala and Baja, Mexico. Heidi Reynolds, Campus Development Chair Consultant in Materials Science Engineering, STEM education advocate, project manager. Expertise in electronic packaging and failure analysis. Becci Merritt, President Emerita Retired RN case manager with extensive experience in workers’ compensation. Passionate advocate for education as a means of breaking the cycle of poverty in the Ixil region. Multi-trip veteran to Guatemala, deeply engaged in supporting Ixil students. Lolo Levy, Treasurer Experienced accountant and CPA, consultant for small businesses and families, specializes in bookkeeping and software tutoring (QuickBooks, Quicken, Microsoft Office). Strong advocate for poverty alleviation in rural Guatemala; regular service team participant. Kathy Riper, Donor Engagement Officer Former competitive/recreational ice skating instructor (36 years); committed to serving Mayan youth since 2001 through annual immersion in the Ixil region. Former Agros International volunteer; passionate about improving access to higher education for rural Guatemalans. Dr. Pete Renn, Board Chair for Academic Programs and Education Associate Dean of the School of Education at Seattle Pacific University (former); current Secondary Principal at Seattle Christian School; over 30 years in education and administration; global experience in school improvement and teacher training.
Scan to learn more about NFE Mission Trips.
An NFE Team Member leads a group activity in the Nicolás Christian School courtyard during our March 2024 mission trip. Every moment together is dedicated to building hope, community, and opportunity.
The Nicolás Fund for Education Board is united by an earnest commitment to empowering Mayan youth in the Ixil region of Guatemala through Christ-centered education. Each board member brings a compassionate spirit, professional excellence, and a heartfelt desire to break cycles of poverty, fostering hope and transformation for generations to come.
Breaking the Cycle of Poverty