As the Executive Director of HBI, I am often asked what inspires me to keep going and continue pushing forward in our mission to build futures for children, families, and healthcare professionals. The answer is simple and profound: it’s the boys we are privileged to care for, and the incredible team of staff who pour their hearts and souls into this work daily.
On this Easter weekend, a time of reflection, renewal, and hope, I am deeply moved by the lessons of peace, generosity, and compassion that unfold before me daily. These lessons don’t come in grand gestures or monumental achievements, but in the quiet, simple moments that remind me of the true meaning of care and integrity.
I think about the other day, when I saw one of our boys sitting with his little brother. The younger boy had been upset, his tiny shoulders trembling with frustration, and without a word, his older brother wrapped his arms around him. It wasn’t just a hug—it was a gentle, unspoken reminder of love, safety, and connection. Watching them, I was struck by the beauty of that moment. It was a reminder of why we do what we do, and why we must never stop working to ensure that HBI has the resources to continue building futures for children and families.
These moments of love and care are not isolated. They are the very fabric of our work. Every day, I see children helping children, staff members sitting quietly with a child in their most vulnerable moments, simply holding space for their tears and frustrations. These acts of compassion are profound in their simplicity, and they remind me that care is not about fixing or solving—it’s about being present, about showing up with love, patience, and understanding.
Our staff is the heart and soul of HBI. They embody the values of compassion and integrity in everything they do. Their dedication humbles me. I see it in the small, quiet acts that often go unnoticed: a teacher staying late to help a child with homework, a caregiver gently encouraging a boy to try again after a setback, or a staff member taking the time to listen, truly listen, to a child’s fears and dreams.
And then there’s our administrative team—the unsung heroes of our organization. Their work is often behind the scenes, rarely recognized, but absolutely essential. They are the ones who keep HBI running and ensure that we can live our mission every single day. From managing budgets to coordinating logistics, from building partnerships to nurturing our community of supporters, their tireless efforts make everything we do possible.
I think about the countless hours of communication, connection, and planning that go into building and sustaining our partnerships. These relationships are the foundation of our work, and they require an extraordinary level of commitment and care. Our team pours their hearts into this work because they believe, as I do, in the power of community to create change.
And then there’s you—our community of donors. Your generosity is the reason we can do this work and the reason we have such a dedicated and passionate team. Every gift you give and every moment you spend supporting HBI is an act of love and belief in our mission. You are part of this story of care and compassion, and we are so deeply grateful for you.
As I reflect on the true meaning of care, compassion, and integrity this Easter, I am inspired by the beauty of our work together. I am inspired by the boys who remind me every day of the power of love and connection. I am inspired by the staff who give so much of themselves to this work, and by the donors who make it all possible.
I am reminded that peace and generosity are not abstract ideals—they are lived experiences embodied in simple, everyday moments of care and connection. They are a brother holding his sibling, a staff member sitting quietly with a child, or a donor choosing to give.
As we move forward, I am committed to ensuring that HBI continues to be a place where these moments of love and care can flourish. I am also committed to building futures for children and families, supporting the healthcare professionals we train, and nurturing the partnerships that make our work possible.
Thank you for being part of this journey. Thank you for believing in our mission and sharing our vision of a world where every child knows the safety and love they deserve.
May we all be reminded of the power of peace, generosity, and compassion this Easter. May we all find inspiration in the simple, beautiful moments of care and connection that surround us daily.
With gratitude and hope.
Embracing Collaboration: Our Upcoming Team Retreat in Arequipa
/0 Comments/in Blog /by Wayne CentroneAs we look forward to our much-anticipated team retreat in the stunning city of Arequipa, we are filled with a sense of purpose and excitement. This gathering presents us with a unique opportunity to reconnect, rejuvenate, and refocus our efforts as a united front, paving the way for enhanced collaboration and communication within our organization. In light of recent events, particularly the loss of our dearly admired Director of Operations, Karen Falkenstein, this retreat carries even greater significance for us as a team.
Before delving into the details of our retreat, we want to take a moment to honor Karen Falkenstein. Karen was not just a colleague; she was a beacon of inspiration for all of us at HBI. Her dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to our mission have left an indelible mark on our hearts and our organization. As we gather in Arequipa, we will carry her spirit with us, ensuring that her legacy of collaboration
continues to guide our work.
The primary aim of our retreat is to foster stronger connections among team members. In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to become isolated in our roles, focusing solely on our tasks. However, we recognize that our greatest strength lies in our collective efforts. This retreat is designed to break down silos, encourage open dialogue, and inspire innovative ideas that will propel us forward. To achieve our objectives, we have planned a series of engaging activities and discussions that will stimulate collaboration. From team-building exercises that foster trust and understanding to brainstorming sessions designed to uncover new opportunities, participants will find themselves immersed in an environment that encourages creativity and camaraderie.
One of the highlights of the retreat will be our workshops, where we will explore effective communication strategies and decision-making processes. These sessions will not only enhance our interpersonal skills but also equip us with the tools we need to work more efficiently as a cohesive unit. By investing in our communication abilities, we can significantly improve our workflow and the impact we have on our stakeholders.
While the retreat will focus on future collaborations, it’s equally important to celebrate our achievements. We will take a moment to reflect on the milestones we have achieved together as a team. By recognizing our successes, we can foster a culture of appreciation and motivation, which will be essential as we move forward without Karen at the helm. We will share stories of how we have overcome challenges and how our collaborative spirit has led to remarkable outcomes. This celebration of our journey will serve as a reminder of the power of teamwork and the impact we can make when we unite our efforts.
What better place to host our retreat than in the breathtaking city of Arequipa? Known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture, Arequipa offers an inspiring setting for our team to gather. The picturesque landscapes will not only provide a refreshing escape from our daily routines but will also inspire creativity and innovation. As we explore the beauty of Arequipa together, we will have the chance to bond over shared experiences, creating memories that will last long after the retreat concludes. Whether it’s enjoying the local cuisine, exploring historical sites, or simply taking in the stunning views, every moment spent in this beautiful city will reinforce our commitment to one another and our mission.
As we prepare for this transformative retreat, we are energized by the possibilities that lie ahead. Our goal is clear: to emerge from Arequipa as a consolidated team that is even more connected, collaborative, and committed to our mission. We understand that the road ahead may have its challenges, especially in light of our loss. Still, we are determined to honor Karen’s legacy by working together more effectively than ever before. We invite our valued donors and stakeholders to join us in this journey. Your support is vital to our success, and we are excited to share the outcomes of our retreat with you. Together, we can continue to make a meaningful impact in the communities we serve.
In conclusion, our upcoming team retreat in Arequipa is more than just a meeting; it’s an opportunity for growth, connection, and celebration. As we come together to discuss our goals and strategies for collaboration, we will do so with a renewed sense of purpose, inspired by the legacy of Karen Falkenstein. Let’s embrace this chance to strengthen our team and our mission, creating a brighter future for HBI and the communities we serve. Stay tuned for updates and highlights from our retreat. Thank you for being an essential part of our journey. Together, we can achieve great things!
Learning from Design Principles: The Power of Beauty and Impact – Wayne Centrone
/0 Comments/in Blog /by Wayne CentroneDesign is a powerful force that shapes our world, influencing everything from the products we use to the spaces we inhabit. At its core, design is about solving problems and creating meaningful connections. However, there are two distinct schools of thought within the design world—each with its purpose, focus, and impact.
On one side, we have impact-driven design. This design camp focuses on utility and functionality, with its influence extending into areas such as marketing, public relations, and product development. Here, the purpose of design is clear: to serve, to solve, and to meet the needs of our societal and practical constraints. It’s about producing consumable goods, ensuring a product’s usability, and delivering solutions that make life easier, faster, or more efficient. It’s the kind of design that is deeply rooted in utility—its success is determined by its ability to meet specific goals, whether it’s increasing sales, improving communication, or addressing a pressing need.
On the other side, we find aesthetic design. This school of thought is fueled by the pursuit of beauty and its transformative power. Aesthetic design encompasses art, fashion, and architecture, particularly the kind of space of intersection that stirs emotions, inspires awe, and elevates the human experience. The goal of aesthetic design is to create beauty in all aspects of life, connecting us to deeper feelings and fostering a sense of emotional involvement. It asks us to slow down, to reflect, and to appreciate the profound impact of beauty in ways that go beyond the surface.
While these two schools of design may seem distinct, there is a powerful intersection between them. This is where designing within the box comes into play—a heuristic that balances the utility of design with the inspiration of aesthetics. It’s a philosophy that guides much of our work at HBI, where we strive to create designs that are not only functional but also profoundly beautiful. Because here’s the truth: beauty has an incredible impact. It’s a beauty that may not always be visible at first glance, but it exists in the almost unseen moments. It’s the kind of beauty that emerges when we choose to seek it out, when we turn inward to reflect on our deeper connections, and then outward to create something that resonates with others.
This is the kind of beauty we witness every day in the lives of the boys we are privileged to serve. It’s found in the way they participate in cultural immersion at their schools, demonstrating pride in their heritage and a commitment to honoring their roots. It’s found in the strength they show in challenging situations, as they step up to support their brothers with resilience and courage. This beauty is not simply decorative—it’s transformative.
The beauty of design—whether it’s impact-driven or aesthetic—has the power to change lives because at its core is connection. For the boys we work with, this beauty emerges from thousands of moments of deep, meaningful connection we make with them day after day. It ensures they know they are treated with love and in a nonjudgmental manner. It’s the strength that comes from transforming the countless “no’s” they’ve heard in their lives into a single “yes” that opens the door to possibility and a brighter future.
But this transformation doesn’t happen overnight. It’s not a “one and done” experience. It requires consistent nurturing, attention, and care. It involves the commitment of partners like you, who believe in the power of design to make a difference in the world. Together, we create a ripple effect that extends far beyond the immediate work we do, impacting lives in ways that are both tangible and deeply meaningful. At HBI, we believe in designing for impact and beauty. We believe in creating solutions that serve a purpose while also inspiring and uplifting those who encounter them. Whether it’s through the utility of a well-executed plan or the emotional resonance of a beautiful experience, design has the power to shape our world for the better.
So, as we continue to learn from design principles, let us remember the importance of both utility and beauty. Let us strive to create work that not only meets the needs of today but also inspires the possibilities of tomorrow. And let us never underestimate the power of a single moment of connection, a single act of beauty, or a single “yes” to change a life. For me, design is more than just what we create—it’s how we choose to see the world and engage with it. Whether it’s through impact-driven solutions or aesthetic inspiration, design teaches us to look closer, think deeper, and connect more meaningfully. That’s the kind of design that transforms lives—and that’s the kind of design worth striving for.
Thank you for continuing to trust our work. Because of you, children who once faced abandonment now have homes, health care, and education. Your gift builds more than bridges—it builds futures filled with possibility
Lima’s New Airport: A Design Marvel with Growing Pains – Wayne Centrone
/0 Comments/in Blog /by Wayne CentroneLima’s new Jorge Chávez International Airport terminal, which officially opened its doors on June 1, 2025, stands as a testament to ambitious design and forward-thinking architecture. The terminal is truly a design marvel that will undoubtedly establish itself as an international travel hub for Latin America. I flew into the new airport last night, and I have a few thoughts I would like to share.
The new facility, operated by Lima Airport Partners (a subsidiary of the German corporation Fraport), is approximately three times the size of the old terminal that served Peru’s capital for 60 years. The previous terminal, which closed its doors at 1:00 AM on June 1 after handling nearly 400 million passengers since its inauguration in 1965, has given way to a structure that embodies modern architectural innovation.
What makes this new terminal particularly inspiring for us at HBI is its demonstration of the powerful intersection of aesthetics and utility. The expansive spaces, abundant natural light, and innovative structural elements create an environment that is both visually stunning and designed to handle the complex logistics of international air travel.
As design professionals, we can draw numerous parallels between this architectural achievement and our work at HBI:
However, as with any major infrastructure project, the reality of operations often falls short of the design’s perfection. A warning to travelers: while the design is stunning, the operations are currently a struggle. There’s a bit of “chaos therapy” ruling the opening days, and things are admittedly messy. Travelers should expect:
This contrast between perfect design and imperfect implementation offers another valuable lesson for our work at HBI. Even the most beautiful designs require time, adjustment, and refinement when implemented in the real world. If you’re traveling through Lima’s new airport soon, here are some helpful tips:
As we continue our work at HBI, Lima’s new airport serves as a powerful reminder of how ambitious design can transform experiences, create new possibilities, and inspire awe, even when the practical implementation faces challenges. The airport’s journey from concept to reality mirrors many of our projects: a bold vision, meticulous planning, inevitable challenges, and ultimately, a transformative result that pushes boundaries and creates new standards of excellence.
In our work, we strive to create designs that, like this airport, will stand as landmarks of innovation and functionality for decades to come—even if there are a few bumps during the initial launch.
Embracing Radical Acceptance – A Journey Toward Growth and Possibility, wayne centrone
/0 Comments/in Blog /by Wayne CentroneAt its heart, radical acceptance is about embracing what is—not what we think life should be. It’s about letting go of the “shoulds” and the “if only.” It’s not resignation or passivity but rather a profound acknowledgment of reality paired with the courage to keep moving forward. For me, this has been a lesson in rewiring my brain, how I think about challenges, and how I approach the work we do at HBI.
For so long, I had this notion stuck in my head: the challenges we see around us – the struggles and barriers faced by children, families, and communities marginalized from the resources they need – were problems to be solved. And yes, these challenges do demand action. But in embracing radical acceptance, I’ve understood that these challenges will not be fixed with simple solutions. There is no magic wand to eradicate poverty, inequity, or marginalization. Radical acceptance has taught me that acknowledging these struggles’ complexity is not an act of defeat, but rather the foundation for meaningful, sustainable change.
Radical acceptance, for me, is about creating space for growth – not just for those we serve, but for myself, our team, and the communities we work with. It’s about recognizing that while we cannot change every aspect of a child’s or family’s circumstances, we can focus on the small, courageous steps we can take each day to create a world where every child, youth, and young adult has access to health, home, hope, and the opportunity to thrive within a community that values their dignity and potential. This mindset does not mean we give up or accept the current situation as unchangeable—quite the opposite. Radical acceptance propels us to commit even more deeply. It drives us to focus on what is possible, find hope in the small victories, and trust that our collective efforts are part of a larger movement toward justice and equity.
This shift in perspective reminds me of the timeless wisdom of the Serenity Prayer:
“Grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change,
The courage to change the things I can,
And the wisdom to know the difference.”
These words contain profound freedom. They remind us that not everything is within our control, but that doesn’t mean we are powerless. It’s about focusing our energy on what we can do—even when the road ahead feels daunting.
The Buddhists have a saying that resonated deeply: Life is full of pain. Suffering comes when we try to resist the inevitable pain of life. This doesn’t mean we should embrace pain or hardship as a permanent state, but rather that we accept its presence as part of the human experience. In doing so, we free ourselves from the endless cycle of frustration and resistance, and we open ourselves to finding meaning, connection, and growth within the reality of the moment.
At HBI, we are reminded of this every day. The children and families we serve face profound challenges—challenges that are often rooted in systemic inequities and generational cycles of poverty. These challenges cannot be solved overnight. But radical acceptance allows us to focus on what we can do. It allows us to celebrate progress, no matter how small, and to stay committed to the long, difficult work of building bridges—bridges of health, hope, and opportunity.
So, where does this leave us? In the present moment, it leaves us with a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper understanding of our shared humanity. It leaves us with the knowledge that our work is not about fixing or solving, but embracing Radical Acceptance – A Journey Toward Growth and Possibility, walking alongside those we serve, creating space for dignity, and fostering growth and possibility.
To our incredible stakeholders, thank you for walking this journey with us. Thank you for your belief in the power of this work, for your commitment to creating a world where every person has the opportunity to thrive, and for your willingness to embrace the complexity of the challenges we face. With radical acceptance as our guide, we are building something extraordinary.
2024 Year in Review
/0 Comments/in Blog /by Wayne CentroneThis report celebrates the vibrant collaboration that has defined our journey, showcasing the powerful impact we can achieve together. Through our ongoing commitment to HBI youth and their communities, we are thrilled to share the compelling stories that illustrate the resilience, growth, and transformation of Perú’s next generation of changemakers. Each narrative reflects the bright and colorful futures that lie ahead, as we work hand in hand to forge pathways to success.
Every collaboration has catalyzed progress, empowering caregivers and equipping underserved communities with lifesaving skills. The inspiring journeys documented in this report highlight the immense potential of collective action. We invite you to dive into the HBI 2024 Year in Review and witness firsthand how our shared efforts have ignited change and fostered hope.
Let’s celebrate the strides we’ve made and the future we are building together. Read the full report here.
Safe Spaces – wayne centrone
/0 Comments/in Blog /by Wayne CentroneIn a world that can often feel rushed and overwhelming, the need for spaces dedicated to healing and authenticity cannot be overstated, especially for our youngest. These are more than just physical places; they are environments crafted with intention, compassion, and the belief that every feeling deserves to be felt.
At the heart of a safe healing space is the unwavering commitment to fully letting children experience their emotions. When we create places where vulnerability is honored, we lay the groundwork for trust and growth. These spaces invite children to be themselves, to let down their guard, and to explore who they are without fear of judgment or repercussion.
Real healing happens where authenticity shines and transparency guides our interactions. Children are acutely aware of the energies around them—they can sense honesty and feel safety where truth is spoken. When adults lead by example, showing up with their struggles and joys, children can do the same.
Last week, we ventured out with some boys for an adventure on a lush, riverside trail. The forest was alive, the air tingled with birdsong, and the river moved alongside our every step. Something magical unfolded when the trail gave way to playful splashing and laughter in the water. The boys leaped into the river, played with wild enthusiasm, and dashed along the trail, soaring with energy and freedom, doubling the intended length of our hike as they zigzagged ahead and back. Their uninhibited p
lay was not just childlike abandon—it was a testament to the safety and acceptance of the space we offered. They weren’t worried about damp shoes or muddy hands. They knew they could show up precisely as they were—messy, loud, joyful, and honest.
On the car ride home, as we wound through quiet roads, the scene was telling—all the little ones fell asleep, their heads heavy with exhaustion and hearts light with contentment. To see children safely surrender to sleep after a day full of adventure is to witness the truest sign of their sense of security and belonging.
Healing spaces for children are sanctuaries for emotional expression and learning. Here, they come to understand their feelings, to see them mirrored and respected. They learn that mistakes are just part of the journey, that vulnerability is strength, and that authenticity will always be welcomed. Whether it’s a forest, a playroom, or a simple campfire, what matters most is the intentions we bring to these spaces. With patience, kindness, and honesty, we can transform ordinary moments into extraordinary opportunities for healing and growth.
Let’s continue to build places where feelings are felt, laughter echoes, and every child knows—deep in their bones—that it is safe to be themselves.
Being Part of a Child’s New Beginning: Lessons from Aldea, Casa Girasoles, and the Heart of Care – wayne centrone
/0 Comments/in Blog /by Wayne CentroneThe challenges that lead to child abandonment in Peru are as vast and nuanced as the country itself. Families are fractured by poverty, migration, domestic violence, and limited access to basic social support. Many children come to care homes after enduring trauma and unimaginable loss, carrying with them the weight of those experiences. Each story is unique, yet a profound need unites them for safety, love, and belonging.
Addressing these hardships requires more than just providing a roof and a meal—it calls for trauma-informed care, community engagement, and comprehensive support for caregivers and families. At Health Bridges International (HBI), real change hinges on equipping caregivers with the tools and training to meet children with empathy, skill, and resilience. That’s why we’re committed to building and sharing a model that works.
This week, our HBI team, with our fantastic partner Thomas Jefferson University School of Nursing and Dr. Stephen DiDonato, continues Phase III of the Communities of Excellence (CoE) research in and around Cusco. The work is intense and inspiring. We’ve heard from caregivers, staff, and children across various homes. Every conversation uncovers challenges and sparks new ideas—from better training in emotional support, to more culturally responsive care, to more innovative use of data and research.
Participants in our research are not just recipients—they are true co-creators. Their insights shape how we conceptualize and refine Phase IV of our model. Together, we’re crafting a blueprint with the potential to extend far beyond a single home or city, one that could guide work throughout Peru and, ultimately, Latin America.
It is humbling—and profoundly moving—to witness the sacrifices and unwavering dedication of caregivers, house parents, social workers, and leadership in our partner homes. We are constantly learning from them: from the creative ways they solve daily problems, to the enduring hope they instill in the children. Their efforts pave the road to a better life for formerly abandoned children and their families, and their wisdom is the foundation of everything we hope to build.
As we look to the next phase of our Communities of Excellence model, we are grateful for everyone who shares in this mission. We are thankful to stand alongside such remarkable colleagues and friends. And above all, we celebrate the resilience and dreams of the children, whose lives inspire us to be better, reach further, and never stop learning.
Change is slow and sometimes messy, but it is happening. We are building a brighter future, one child and one community at a time.
Una Lección de Paz y Generosidad: Reflexiones en este bendito fin de semana de Pascua – wayne centrone
/0 Comments/in Blog /by Wayne CentroneComo Directora Ejecutiva de HBI, a menudo me preguntan qué me inspira para seguir adelante y continuar impulsando nuestra misión de construir futuros para los niños, las familias y los profesionales sanitarios. La respuesta es sencilla y profunda: son los chicos a los que tenemos el privilegio de cuidar y el increíble personal que vuelca su corazón y su alma en este trabajo a diario.
Pienso en el otro día, cuando vi a uno de nuestros hijos sentado con su hermano pequeño. El pequeño estaba enfadado, sus hombros temblaban de frustración y, sin decir palabra, su hermano mayor lo abrazó. No era sólo un abrazo: era un recordatorio suave y tácito de amor, seguridad y conexión. Al observarlos, me sorprendió la belleza de aquel momento. Fue un recordatorio de por qué hacemos lo que hacemos, y por qué nunca debemos dejar de trabajar para garantizar que HBI disponga de los recursos necesarios para seguir construyendo futuros para los niños y las familias.
Estos momentos de amor y cuidado no son aislados. Son el tejido mismo de nuestro trabajo. Todos los días veo a niños que ayudan a niños, a miembros del personal que se sientan tranquilamente con un niño en sus momentos más vulnerables, simplemente dando espacio a sus lágrimas y frustraciones. Estos actos de compasión son profundos en su sencillez, y me recuerdan que el cuidado no consiste en arreglar o solucionar, sino en estar presente, en mostrarse con amor, paciencia y comprensión.
Nuestro personal es el corazón y el alma de HBI. Encarnan los valores de compasión e integridad en todo lo que hacen. Su dedicación me hace sentir humilde. Lo veo en los pequeños actos silenciosos que a menudo pasan desapercibidos: un profesor que se queda hasta tarde para ayudar a un niño con los deberes, un cuidador que anima amablemente a un chico a intentarlo de nuevo tras un contratiempo, o un miembro del personal que se toma el tiempo de escuchar, escuchar de verdad, los miedos y sueños de un niño.
Y luego está nuestro equipo administrativo, los héroes anónimos de nuestra organización. Su trabajo suele realizarse entre bastidores, raramente reconocido, pero esencial. Son los que hacen que HBI funcione y garantizan que podamos vivir nuestra misión cada día. Desde la gestión de presupuestos hasta la coordinación de la logística, desde la creación de asociaciones hasta el fomento de nuestra comunidad de simpatizantes, sus incansables esfuerzos hacen posible todo lo que hacemos.
Pienso en las incontables horas de comunicación, conexión y planificación que se dedican a crear y mantener nuestras asociaciones. Estas relaciones son la base de nuestro trabajo y exigen un nivel extraordinario de compromiso y cuidado. Nuestro equipo se vuelca en este trabajo porque cree, como yo, en el poder de la comunidad para crear el cambio.
Y luego estáis vosotros, nuestra comunidad de donantes. Vuestra generosidad es la razón por la que podemos hacer este trabajo y tener un equipo tan dedicado y apasionado. Cada donativo que haces y cada momento que pasas apoyando a HBI es un acto de amor y de creencia en nuestra misión. Formas parte de esta historia de atención y compasión, y te estamos profundamente agradecidos.
Reflexionando sobre el verdadero significado del cuidado, la compasión y la integridad, esta Pascua me siento inspirada por la belleza de nuestro trabajo conjunto. Me inspiran los chicos que me recuerdan cada día el poder del amor y la conexión. Me inspira el personal que da tanto de sí mismo a este trabajo, y los donantes que lo hacen posible.
Me recuerdan que la paz y la generosidad no son ideales abstractos, sino experiencias vividas encarnadas en momentos sencillos y cotidianos de atención y conexión. Son un hermano abrazando a su hermano, un miembro del personal sentado tranquilamente con un niño o un donante que decide dar.
A medida que avanzamos, me comprometo a garantizar que la HBI siga siendo un lugar donde puedan florecer estos momentos de amor y cuidado. También me comprometo a construir futuros para los niños y las familias, a apoyar a los profesionales sanitarios que formamos y a alimentar las asociaciones que hacen posible nuestro trabajo.
Gracias por formar parte de este viaje. Gracias por creer en nuestra misión y compartir nuestra visión de un mundo en el que todos los niños conozcan la seguridad y el amor que merecen.
Que esta Pascua nos recuerde a todos el poder de la paz, la generosidad y la compasión. Que todos encontremos inspiración en los sencillos y bellos momentos de cuidado y conexión que nos rodean a diario.
Con gratitud y esperanza.
Lesson in Peace and Generosity: Reflections on this Easter Weekend – wayne centrone
/0 Comments/in Blog /by Wayne CentroneOn this Easter weekend, a time of reflection, renewal, and hope, I am deeply moved by the lessons of peace, generosity, and compassion that unfold before me daily. These lessons don’t come in grand gestures or monumental achievements, but in the quiet, simple moments that remind me of the true meaning of care and integrity.
I think about the other day, when I saw one of our boys sitting with his little brother. The younger boy had been upset, his tiny shoulders trembling with frustration, and without a word, his older brother wrapped his arms around him. It wasn’t just a hug—it was a gentle, unspoken reminder of love, safety, and connection. Watching them, I was struck by the beauty of that moment. It was a reminder of why we do what we do, and why we must never stop working to ensure that HBI has the resources to continue building futures for children and families.
These moments of love and care are not isolated. They are the very fabric of our work. Every day, I see children helping children, staff members sitting quietly with a child in their most vulnerable moments, simply holding space for their tears and frustrations. These acts of compassion are profound in their simplicity, and they remind me that care is not about fixing or solving—it’s about being present, about showing up with love, patience, and understanding.
Our staff is the heart and soul of HBI. They embody the values of compassion and integrity in everything they do. Their dedication humbles me. I see it in the small, quiet acts that often go unnoticed: a teacher staying late to help a child with homework, a caregiver gently encouraging a boy to try again after a setback, or a staff member taking the time to listen, truly listen, to a child’s fears and dreams.
And then there’s our administrative team—the unsung heroes of our organization. Their work is often behind the scenes, rarely recognized, but absolutely essential. They are the ones who keep HBI running and ensure that we can live our mission every single day. From managing budgets to coordinating logistics, from building partnerships to nurturing our community of supporters, their tireless efforts make everything we do possible.
I think about the countless hours of communication, connection, and planning that go into building and sustaining our partnerships. These relationships are the foundation of our work, and they require an extraordinary level of commitment and care. Our team pours their hearts into this work because they believe, as I do, in the power of community to create change.
And then there’s you—our community of donors. Your generosity is the reason we can do this work and the reason we have such a dedicated and passionate team. Every gift you give and every moment you spend supporting HBI is an act of love and belief in our mission. You are part of this story of care and compassion, and we are so deeply grateful for you.
As I reflect on the true meaning of care, compassion, and integrity this Easter, I am inspired by the beauty of our work together. I am inspired by the boys who remind me every day of the power of love and connection. I am inspired by the staff who give so much of themselves to this work, and by the donors who make it all possible.
I am reminded that peace and generosity are not abstract ideals—they are lived experiences embodied in simple, everyday moments of care and connection. They are a brother holding his sibling, a staff member sitting quietly with a child, or a donor choosing to give.
As we move forward, I am committed to ensuring that HBI continues to be a place where these moments of love and care can flourish. I am also committed to building futures for children and families, supporting the healthcare professionals we train, and nurturing the partnerships that make our work possible.
Thank you for being part of this journey. Thank you for believing in our mission and sharing our vision of a world where every child knows the safety and love they deserve.
May we all be reminded of the power of peace, generosity, and compassion this Easter. May we all find inspiration in the simple, beautiful moments of care and connection that surround us daily.
With gratitude and hope.
Reflections on a cold and rainy day – wayne centrone
/0 Comments/in Blog /by Wayne CentroneFor over 30 years, I have worked directly and indirectly with people experiencing homelessness – as a physician, a researcher, and an advocate. During this time, I have seen the faces of homelessness change, yet the suffering remains constant. At this point in my journey, I am less interested in dissecting how we arrived at this crisis and more focused on finding a way out.
This morning, I witnessed something that stopped me in my tracks. Standing in the cold drizzle, a young person gathered their plastic bags—the entirety of their life contained in fragile, disposable vessels. Their hands, swollen and puffy, bore the unmistakable signs of an injection drug use history. Their youth was overshadowed by the bleakness of a life filled with pain, their face a silent scream of despair.
How is it okay for those of us who live with the comfort of warm homes, stable jobs, and secure lives to pretend this suffering isn’t real? How can we walk past these lives, reduced to shadows, and not feel the weight of our shared humanity? The truth is, we are no longer mere voyeurs to this crisis. We are complicit. Our indifference, our inaction, and our collective forgetting have made us participants in the long-term societal impact of homelessness.
We need to stop seeing homelessness as “their” problem and start recognizing it as “our” problem. The young person I saw this morning is not a stranger. They are our neighbor, our friends, our co-workers, our family. We are connected, whether we choose to acknowledge it or not. Their suffering reflects our society’s failure to care for its most vulnerable, a mirror held up to the cracks in our systems and hearts.
The causes of homelessness are complex—poverty, addiction, mental illness, systemic inequities, and a lack of affordable housing—but the solution starts with a fundamental shift in perspective. We must stop seeing people experiencing homelessness as “other” and start seeing them as part of us. This shift requires more than empathy; it demands action.
We need policies that prioritize affordable housing, access to healthcare, and comprehensive addiction treatment. We need communities that embrace, rather than shun, those struggling. And we need to hold ourselves accountable—not just our governments or institutions, but each of us as individuals. What are we doing to help? What are we doing to advocate for change? What are we doing to ensure that no one has to stand in the cold drizzle, carrying their life in plastic bags?
Homelessness is not inevitable. It results from our choices as a society—choices we can unmake. But doing so requires us to confront uncomfortable truths about privilege, inequality, and complicity. It requires us to move beyond charity and into the realm of justice.
The young person I saw this morning deserves better. They deserve a chance at a life filled with hope, dignity, and opportunity. We deserve the chance to have them as colleagues, neighbors, and aspiring members of our society. We all deserve a chance to be our best. Let us not turn away from their pain.
Let us not forget that we are all connected. Let us find a way out—together. It all starts with some form of action. We can do this. I know we can.