Perspectives from the CEO: A Reversal of Roles

Who is helping whom?

On my recent travels to El Salvador to participate in a HOPE worldwide Community Service Brigade, I had the opportunity to serve in a local community. Our efforts were concentrated at a children's school in Suchitoto, where we provided much-needed medical and dental assistance.

By the end of the first day, I was extremely fatigued. I had been on my feet the entire day and, suffering from persistent knee pain, I eagerly anticipated finding a place to sit and rest. As the neighbors from the Suchitoto community began to return home, I found a chair outside the room we had designated as the pharmacy. I sat down, leaned forward, and rested my head in my arms.

Suddenly, a young boy approached me out of nowhere. He gently lifted my head and arms, and then hugged my face. Despite the language barrier—he did not speak any English, and I only knew basic Spanish greetings—his gesture spoke volumes. He stayed with me for about five minutes before walking away as quietly as he had approached.

There I was, the CEO of HOPE worldwide, serving this small community of Suchitoto and finding myself fatigued, in pain, and in need of relief and rest. Then, in an unexpected and touching reversal of roles, it was a local child who brought comfort, clarity, reconciliation and connection to me.

This encounter reminded me of the profound impact of our work and the mutual compassion and humanity that binds us all. Often, we go into communities with the intent to serve and uplift, yet we find ourselves on the receiving end of grace and kindness. 

This child’s simple act of compassion illustrated the essence of what HOPE worldwide strives to achieve—a world where we lift each other up, regardless of our title or status. A world where we inspire greater hope in one another. 

As we continue our mission, let us remember that true service is reciprocal. We give and receive, teach and learn, offer comfort and find comfort ourselves. This experience in Suchitoto has deepened my appreciation for the profound connections we build and the unexpected ways in which we are all in need of care.

Thank you for your partnership in making these moments possible. Together, we continue to bring hope and transformation to communities worldwide. Your dedication and generosity allow us to serve “the greatest among us."

Ben Barnett, MDiv, DMin

President & CEO of HOPE worldwide