Stories of Hope

What does it truly mean to serve in a non-profit? In this episode of Stories of Hope, we sit down with Anastasia Oliver — a long-term Casa Cuna team member — for an honest, unfiltered conversation about life on the front lines of mission work. Drawing from years of experience across both the United States and Mexico, Anastasia shares the complex realities, quiet victories, and hard-won lessons that shape this work every day. Whether you're a seasoned advocate or simply curious about the world of non-profit service, this episode offers a rare and grounded perspective from someone who has lived it. Get to know one of the passionate people behind Casa Cuna — and walk away with a deeper understanding of the world we're all working to improve.

In this episode of Stories of Hope, Hannah Petker shares about her time serving at Casa Cuna after traveling from British Columbia, Canada. During her short-term stay over the holiday season, Hannah embraced life in Tijuana, building meaningful relationships with the children and community at Project Mexico. Tune in for a casual and lighthearted conversation about faith, service, and what it’s like to serve at St. Innocent Orphanage during a special time of year.

This episode of Stories of Hope takes you behind the scenes of Casa Cuna San Felipe to answer the most frequently asked questions about the home and its mission. While our other episodes explore personal journeys and emotional moments, this conversation focuses on the practical, everyday realities of the work happening inside the Casa Cuna. The role of the caregivers is truly unique—intensive, compassionate, and central to the success of the home. Thanks to the insight of Evangeline Zendejas, listeners gain a clearer understanding of the rhythms, responsibilities, and heartfelt dedication that shape daily life for the children and staff. We are deeply grateful for the incredible people who make this mission possible. If you’d like to support our work and help us continue caring for those who need it most, please visit our website: https://www.projectmexico.org/

In this episode of Stories of Hope, California native Wyatt West shares his inspiring journey from volunteer and intern to long-term staff member at Project Mexico. Hear how his time serving in Mexico deepened his faith, strengthened his compassion, and led him back to a community he now calls home. Wyatt’s story is a testament to living out service with joy and purpose.

Zelda Gilbert: Faith, Service, and Growing Through Leadership In this inspiring episode of Stories of Hope, we sit down with Zelda Gilbert, a Hillsdale College student who has spent the past two summers serving as a Project Mexico intern. From her first introduction to the program to her recent role as a site leader, Zelda has become a beloved part of the ranch community. She shares how her background prepared her for this unique mission experience, and how her summers in Mexico have deepened her faith, strengthened her leadership skills, and given her a greater vision for service. Zelda’s story highlights the transformative impact of volunteering—not only for the families receiving homes but also for the young leaders who step forward to build them. Tune in to hear Zelda’s reflections on community, growth, and what it means to live out your faith in service to others.

In this powerful episode of Stories of Hope, Father Nicholas, Executive Director of Project Mexico, shares his firsthand experience of being a seminarian at St. Vladimir’s Seminary in New York City during the tragic events of September 11, 2001.Recently invited back to speak at the Orthodox Shrine at Ground Zero, Father Nicholas reflects on how 9/11 shaped his spiritual life, priesthood, and understanding of what it means to serve in times of crisis. His story offers a moving glimpse into the mission field that emerged in the aftermath—and the enduring need for prayer, presence, and pastoral care in the face of suffering.

In this inspiring episode of Stories of Hope, we sit down with Lucy Cuneo, a passionate young Orthodox Christian whose journey has taken her across the globe—and ultimately to Project Mexico. Lucy shares her personal story of faith, travel, and service, offering insight into what it's like to live abroad as a young Orthodox believer. Discover how her international experiences shaped her spiritual growth, and how her path led her to support vulnerable communities in Mexico. Her commitment, vibrant personality, and heartfelt devotion to meaningful work exemplify how stepping outside your comfort zone can open unexpected doors. Whether you're interested in Orthodox Christian missions, faith-based travel, or simply seeking uplifting stories of hope and transformation, this episode offers a powerful reminder of the impact one person can make.

Today we hear from Canon Hansen, a long-term staff member, counselor and all-around amazing addition to the program! He talks about his introduction to Mexico, his relationships with his faith, and the ranch. We chat about personalities and world-views and how these factors affect his work life and community. Enjoy hearing the positive and inspiring words of Canon, and get a glimpse into the world of Project Mexico beyond the summer programs.

This episode of "Stories of Hope" is a unique one. Guest and long-term staff member Aaron Bauer was an intern in 2013, and has returned this year. He talks through the ways that he has changed, plans for the future and his personal faith. With hearing his thoughts, you can get a more personal reflection of Aaron, as well as the ranch.

I spoke with Gabe Braskett, a student in Boston attending Hellenic College Holy Cross and a returning summer intern for the Project Mexico Ministry. He talks about how his first summer in 2023 helped shape his path to Boston and the growth he experienced during summers in Mexico. Through anecdotes and self-reflection, Gabe shares his story as an intern, living in faith, and working in ministry.

Our discussion resumes with the series on Sacraments as we focus on marriage. Father Demetrios Swanson walks us through the Orthodox wedding ceremony, and shares insights on the Orthodox theology of marriage. Father helps put into perspective why marriage is important, as well as talking about the different traditions. He also reads to us from a few sources that will be liked below. Marriage: The Great SacramentThe Orthodox Faith, Worship, and Life

Join Fr. Demetrios Swanson as he leads us through a new series on the sacraments. We follow up our discussion of baptism with unction, anointment.

Get to know Margarita Mavroeidi as she talks about as she talks about her work with the boys at the ranch. She also shares stories from homebuilding adventures and gives examples of the chaos, joy, hard, work and prayer that is part of everyday life in Mexico. If you would like to support her work here in Mexico, you can donate to her OCMC mission page below!https://secure.ocmc.org/site/SPageNavigator/Missionaries/Margarita%20Mavroeidi/MargaritaMavroeidiMissionary.html