Transforming Lives Through Carpentry

The Story of Mission Lazarus’ Vocational School

The Vocational Carpentry School at Mission Lazarus has been a cornerstone of change and hope in southern Honduras since its inception in 2003. It all started with a small but powerful vision: to offer a lifeline to the young men of Ciudad Nueva, a neighborhood in Choluteca that was rebuilding after the devastation of Hurricane Mitch in 1998. While aid was being delivered in the form of food and necessities, Mission Lazarus saw an even deeper need—one for education, skill-building, and empowerment. It was in response to this need that the carpentry school was born.

More than two decades later, the impact of the school is evident. Hundreds of young men have completed the carpentry training program, gaining not only a marketable trade but also the confidence and skills to transform their futures. Over the past few years, an exciting new chapter has begun—several talented women have also enrolled, breaking barriers in a field traditionally dominated by men. Today, many graduates are thriving in the world of carpentry, with some even running their own workshops and employing others.

One of the most inspiring success stories comes from Pedro Zambrano, who enrolled in the Adult Education program at Lazarus Academy in 2012. Pedro, from Las Delicias—a remote village with limited access to education beyond the sixth grade—had to endure a grueling three-hour walk every day just to attend school. His journey took him through treacherous rivers and rugged mountains, but his commitment never wavered.

After six years of hard work, Pedro graduated with not only a high school diploma but also valuable carpentry skills. Today, he is an essential part of the Lazarus Artisan Goods carpentry workshop, earning a good living and supporting his parents and three siblings.

But the true impact of Mission Lazarus on Pedro’s life extends far beyond his financial success. When reflecting on his experience, Pedro shared:

“Mission Lazarus not only removes physical hunger but also the hunger for knowledge. It helps us grow academically, but it doesn't stop there; it also satisfies our spiritual hunger. Every day, before we start working, we gather for a special time of devotion. We worship, pray, and study God’s word together. Much of what we learn about God goes beyond us—it’s something we take home and share with our families. Now, our families also attend church every weekend. Thank you, Mission Lazarus, for changing the course of my life.”

Pedro’s story is just one of many that reflect the life-changing power of education, skill-building, and faith. Through the vocational carpentry program, Mission Lazarus continues to equip individuals not only with practical skills but with the values and support that transform families and communities. It’s a legacy of hope that grows stronger with each passing year.

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