Our Story: A Journey Rooted in Compassion
For over 50 years, Advance Community has been a beacon of hope, tirelessly working to improve lives and create sustainable futures for underserved communities around the globe. Our journey began in the early 1960s when a life-changing encounter with extreme poverty in Brazil sparked a commitment to bringing essential healthcare to those in need. This encounter laid the foundation for what would eventually become a global mission of compassion and service.
1970: The Birth of Advance Community
Officially incorporated in 1970, Advance Community was founded with a clear vision: to bring hope and medical aid to marginalized communities. The name “Esperança,” which means “Hope” in Portuguese, perfectly captured the essence of our mission. Over the years, we’ve evolved and expanded, but our core purpose remains unchanged: to serve and uplift those who need it most.
Innovative Healthcare Solutions
Our early years were marked by innovative approaches to delivering healthcare. In 1972, we transformed a passenger ferry into a floating hospital, providing medical services to remote Amazonian communities that had little to no access to healthcare. This unique solution allowed us to bring critical care directly to those in need, overcoming geographical barriers.
As our efforts grew, we moved our operations onshore in 1982, establishing Fundaçao Esperança as a self-sustaining medical facility. This transition enabled us to offer more comprehensive and consistent care, solidifying our presence in the region and expanding our impact.
Expanding Our Reach: From Global to Local
While our roots are in international work, we’ve also made significant strides domestically. In 2000, we launched our first programs in Phoenix, Arizona, focusing on health education for lower-income Latino families. Since then, we’ve served over 50,000 families in Maricopa County, providing them with essential tools for disease prevention and better health outcomes.
Our international reach continued to expand in the late 1990s and early 2000s, with new programs launched in Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia. We partnered with local hospitals and NGOs to provide surgical missions, medical care, and community development services, addressing critical needs such as clean water, safe housing, and agricultural development.
Adapting to Challenges and Innovating Solutions
In Nicaragua, political challenges in 2014 required us to innovate our approach. We introduced a Primary Care Brigade strategy to continue providing medical care despite the difficulties in sending surgical teams. This adaptability has been a cornerstone of our work, allowing us to meet the evolving needs of the communities we serve.
Our domestic programs have also grown, including services for seniors living in HUD housing and diabetes prevention and management education. These initiatives reflect our commitment to holistic care, addressing both immediate health concerns and long-term wellness.
What We Do: A Commitment to Comprehensive Care
At Advance Community, we believe in a holistic approach to improving lives. Our work spans multiple continents and encompasses a wide range of programs:
- Surgical Missions and Medical Care: We provide life-changing surgeries and medical treatments in countries like Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador, and more.
- Community Development: We work on projects that ensure access to clean water, safe housing, and agricultural development, helping communities become self-sufficient.
- Health Education: We offer programs that educate individuals and families on disease prevention and healthy living, both internationally and in our local community in Arizona.
Our Supporters and Volunteers: The Heart of Our Mission
Our work would not be possible without the generous support of foundations, donors, and volunteers. Their belief in our projects and dedication to our cause enable us to continue making a difference. Whether it’s providing funding, volunteering time, or spreading the word about our mission, every contribution helps us build a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
