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Have you ever wondered how a small initiative can spark a massive change in the lives of countless individuals? In the dense jungles of Peru, a remarkable story unfolds, one that showcases the power of compassion and the resilience of the human spirit. Let's delve into the history of Not Forgotten, an organization that has taken upon itself the monumental task of breaking the cycle of abandonment in Iquitos.
What drives a person to dedicate their life to the welfare of others? This is the question that lingered in my mind as I learned about Not Forgotten. In a city where the streets are teeming with abandoned children, a group of individuals decided to take action. But why Iquitos? What makes this city so unique that it necessitates such a profound intervention?
Iquitos, the largest city inaccessible by land, presents a unique challenge. With no roads leading in or out, the only way to reach this city is by air or water. Here, the plight of abandoned children, especially boys, is heart-wrenching. Neglect, abuse, and addiction are all too common, leaving these children vulnerable and exploited. The statistics are staggering: one in 12 children in this region have been abandoned, setting the stage for Not Forgotten's intervention.
The story of Not Forgotten begins with Gene [Idlit], a young boy born in Iquitos in 1978. Abandoned by his father and facing a difficult life with an abusive stepfather, Gene sought refuge in local churches. His journey took him to Lima, where he worked as a police officer. But Gene's heart was never in it; he remembered his own struggles and wanted to help vulnerable children like himself.
Enter Tyler Fiuque, a college student from North Carolina, who visited an orphanage in Iquitos with a church group. His experience with the children left a lasting impression, and he was determined to make a difference. Gene, now a police officer in Lima, shared a similar desire. Their paths crossed, and together with their families, they identified the key to breaking the cycle of abandonment: focusing on the family unit and providing a sense of home.
In 2008, my own journey with Not Forgotten began. I traveled to Chiquián, Peru, and fell in love with the country and its people. My wife, Tara, visited Iquitos and returned with a mission: we were going to help these orphans. Tyler had a vision of purchasing land to build a new orphanage, and with the support of many, he secured the funds and acquired the land.
But it wasn't enough to have land; something needed to be built. That's when I decided to go to Iquitos and help construct a septic tank. The purpose was clear: to spread the message of Not Forgotten to as many people as possible. The Project for Awesome helped raise funds and garnered support, enabling the organization to make a real impact.
The transformation was gradual but profound. Children who once saw visitors as a source of gifts and parties now felt secure in their homes, asking, "Who are you? And why are you visiting my home?" This shift marked the beginning of breaking the cycle of abandonment. The children were learning to trust and feel secure, a foundation for a brighter future.
Not Forgotten's work doesn't stop at childhood. Recognizing the need for a seamless transition into adulthood, Gene and Patty started Alporcar, a facility in the city where boys can learn skills and trades, preparing them for independent lives.
Today, Not Forgotten supports 35 children in two homes at Los Lomas and Alporcar. The desire is to open a third home, but finances are a challenge. This is where you come in. By supporting Not Forgotten through Patreon, you can help ensure that these children receive the care and education they deserve.
As we reflect on the journey of Not Forgotten, we see a story of resilience, compassion, and transformation. The cycle of abandonment is being broken, one child at a time. So, why does this matter to you? Because every act of kindness, every donation, and every bit of support has the power to change a life forever.
Will you join us in making a difference? Visit patreon.com/notforgotten to learn how you can contribute. Together, we can create a brighter future for the children of Iquitos.
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