I am participating in the Bound for Peace 2025 Medellin trip because it deeply aligns with who I am, both personally and academically. As a freshman at the University of Florida studying materials science and engineering with a minor in computer science, I’m constantly seeking meaningful ways to apply my knowledge beyond the classroom, especially in ways that uplift Latin American communities.

Born in Lima, Peru, and raised in the United States since I was a child, I carry with me the stories of my family, our journey, and the sacrifices made in search of a better future. This perspective has always driven me to give back. The opportunity to serve in Medellin feels incredibly close to home. My Spanish teacher throughout all four years of high school, who I admire deeply, is from Medellin. Through her stories and lessons, I grew to appreciate the city's vibrant culture, rich history, and the strength of its people. This trip is a chance to finally experience the place that shaped someone who shaped me.

Through volunteering, I hope to support youth and families who may be experiencing some of the same hardships my own family once did. I’ve previously volunteered with Aprendalo, a virtual program where I tutored Latin American students in English, some as young as 15, others well into their 20s. Many of them were from Peru and Argentina. That experience showed me that borders mean little when it comes to shared struggle and solidarity. In another world, I could have easily been one of those students. And that's why I’m committed to doing my part, however big or small, to support and uplift others.

This trip is more than a service opportunity, it's a personal milestone and a chance to continue the work I’ve already begun: building bridges, learning from others, and showing that the next generation of Latinos is proud, powerful, and full of heart.

People should support my BFP 2025 trip because it’s more than just a travel experience, it’s a chance for me to give back, learn, and grow in a community that reflects my own roots. As a Peruvian-American and a first-year engineering student at the University of Florida, I’ve worked hard to pursue every opportunity that comes my way. But financial constraints make participating in this trip difficult without support. Your donation would directly help cover travel, housing, transportation, meals, and materials for the volunteer work we’ll be doing in Medellin. With your help, I can focus on what truly matters: making a meaningful impact and building lasting connections through service.

Throughout my life, I’ve stayed connected to my culture. In high school, I led cultural clubs like Latinos in Action and the National Spanish Honor Society, serving as president and creating events that celebrated Latin identity through dance, food, and service. At UF, I continue that mission through Gator Salsa and the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers, where I engage with others who share similar values of pride and purpose. By supporting me, you’re not only investing in this trip—you’re investing in a young Latina who is passionate about cultural connection, service, and representation. This opportunity allows me to grow both personally and professionally while helping a community I’ve long admired. It also holds special meaning knowing that someone who mentored me—my Spanish teacher from Medellin—played such a big role in shaping who I am today. Please consider helping me turn this dream into a reality. Every dollar brings me one step closer to using my voice, my story, and my heart to make a difference. Thank you for believing in me.

Bound for Peace 2025 Medellin - Angie Arrasco Pinedo

By CHILDREN BEYOND OUR BORDERS INC

Bound for Peace 2025 Medellin - Angie Arrasco Pinedo