Counteract International

Overview

Counteract International, formerly known as Orphan Helpers, is a US nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming the lives of incarcerated and released youth in Central America. It is a faith-driven organization that takes a holistic approach to addressing the challenges faced by young people in El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras.

History

Counteract International was founded in 2000 by Greg Garrett, who initially aimed to serve orphaned and abandoned children in government-run institutions. Over time, the organization expanded its focus to include juvenile correctional facilities in El Salvador and Honduras. In 2014, following the closure of government-run orphanages in Honduras and the scaling back of those in El Salvador, the organization shifted its focus towards supporting young offenders in these facilities. This expansion led to serving youth not only while incarcerated but also after their release.

In 2024, Orphan Helpers officially changed its name to Counteract International to reflect its broader mission of combating the root causes of adversity faced by youth in Central America, including violence, poverty, and lack of education.

Mission and Activities

Counteract International's mission is to equip incarcerated and released youth with skills and support to achieve life turnarounds. It provides daily mentorship, life skills training, and biblical guidance to youth behind bars. Once released, these young people are supported through services such as educational opportunities, job connections, and community engagement. The organization also empowers formerly incarcerated youth to contribute positively to their communities through service projects.

Recent Developments

In recent years, Counteract International has expanded its operations across the Northern Triangle of Central America, launched educational scholarship programs for released youth, and implemented projects funded by the U.S. Department of State and USAID.

Financial Profile

As a nonprofit organization, Counteract operates on a budget that supports its various programs and services. In recent financial reports, the organization has demonstrated a commitment to responsible financial management, with revenues slightly exceeding expenses to maintain operational stability.

Governance and Leadership

Counteract International is led by a board of directors that includes experienced professionals from various backgrounds. The organization prioritizes ethical governance practices, ensuring transparency and accountability in its operations.

Impact

Through its holistic approach, Counteract International has helped numerous youth achieve positive life changes, contributing to the healing of families and restoration of communities in Central America. The organization continues to advocate that every youth has a future worth fighting for, offering hope and transformative opportunities in challenging environments.

[1] https://missionsbox.org/press-releases/nonprofit-reveals-new-name-counteract-international-in-battle-against-root-causes-facing-central-american-youth/ [2] https://counteract.org/about/ [3] https://www.ecfa.org/MemberProfile.aspx?ID=20375 [4] https://counteract.org [5] https://www.guidestar.org/profile/54-1995429