Bring Hope. Build Futures.
Support the beautiful people of Ek Balam through education, nutrition, clean water, and Christ-centered outreach.
About
Welcome to Ek Balam
Deep in Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula, the indigenous Mayan community of Ek Balam thrives with faith, tradition, and resilience—but faces economic and spiritual challenges.
Founded in 1971
Started by 12 families seeking a new beginning
~400 Residents
Indigenous Mayans preserving their heritage
Limited Resources
Challenges with clean water and education access
Mission
Why We Serve
To bring hope through sustainable programs that empower families, uplift children, and share the love of Jesus.
Education
We provide educational resources, school supplies, and learning opportunities to help children.
- ✓ School supplies for children
- ✓ Classroom construction
- ✓ Educational programs
Faith
We share the love of Jesus through worship, Bible studies, and community-centered spiritual outreach.
- ✓ Bible studies and distribution
- ✓ Worship gatherings
- ✓ Discipleship programs
Hope
We provide essential resources like clean water, nutrition, and healthcare to meet immediate needs.
- ✓ Clean water initiatives
- ✓ Nutrition programs
- ✓ Medical care and supplies
Founder
Following God's Call
God doesn't call the qualified — He qualifies the called.
In 2006, Debi Morris first visited the village of Ek Balam. What began as a short trip became a divine appointment that changed her life forever.
Moved by the needs and resilience of the community, Debi eventually became a citizen and founded Hope for Ek Balam to create sustainable change through faith-based outreach.
Life Verse:
"Micah 6:8 — To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God."
Debi Morris
Founder, Hope for Ek Balam
House of Light
Zacil Naa Outreach Center
A permanent home for worship, learning, and healing in the heart of Ek Balam.
A Center for Community Transformation
The House of Light serves as our central hub for all outreach activities, providing a welcoming space where the community can gather, learn, and grow together.
Kitchen & Pantry
For meal preparation and food distribution to families in need.
Offices & Restrooms
Administrative space and clean facilities for visitors and staff.
Worship Center
Open-air, thatched roof gathering space for services and community events.
Garden & Grounds
Tool shed, sustainable garden, and celebration grounds for community gatherings.
Programs
Our holistic approach addresses spiritual, physical, and economic needs through these key programs.
Spiritual Outreach
We share the love of Jesus through community-centered programs that nurture spiritual growth and build lasting relationships.
- • Weekly Bible studies for all ages
- • Puppet shows that teach biblical values to children
- • Discipleship training for community leaders
- • Guitar ministry teaching worship music
Toolbelt
Hands That Build Hope
A team of IronMen Disciple's Path members serve each year with their hearts and tools, building infrastructure that transforms lives.
Our Toolbelt Team brings skilled volunteers to Ek Balam each year, working alongside local community members to construct and improve vital facilities.
From building the House of Light to renovating homes for widows, these dedicated volunteers use their construction skills to create lasting change.
Interested in joining?
Email Ronnie Holderby: ronnie.holderby@outlook.com
Join Our Next Mission Trip
- • No construction experience required - just a willing heart
- • Trips typically last7-10 days
- • All ages welcome (16+ or with parent/guardian)
- • Experience the joy of serving alongside the Ek Balam community
Videos
See Hope in Action
Watch these videos to experience the impact of our work in Ek Balam and the transformation happening in the community.
Community Outreach
Watch our team in action as they engage with the community through various outreach programs, from medical care to educational initiatives.
House of Light
See the progress on our House of Light project, a permanent home for worship, learning, and healing in the heart of Ek Balam.
Donate
Give Hope
Your generosity creates lasting change in Ek Balam. Every gift, no matter the size, transforms lives and builds a brighter future.
Choose Your Impact
$25 – School Supplies
Provide essential school supplies for a child in Ek Balam.
$50 – Family Nutrition
Provide one week of nutritious meals for a family in need.
$75 – Bible Distribution
Support Bible distribution and discipleship programs.
$500 – House of Light
Support construction of the House of Light outreach center.
Every gift transforms lives.
Other Ways to Help
- • Volunteer Your Time: Join a mission trip to Ek Balam
- • Donate Supplies: Medical, school, and hygiene items
- • Spread Awareness: Share our mission on social media
John Martinez
Monthly Donor since 2020
"Seeing how my monthly donations directly impact families in Ek Balam has been incredibly rewarding. Every dollar makes a real difference in this community."
Help
Other Ways to Help
Beyond financial support, there are many meaningful ways to get involved and make a difference in Ek Balam.
Volunteer Your Time
Join a mission trip to Ek Balam and use your skills to make a direct impact. We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds and abilities.
- ✓ Construction and building projects
- ✓ Medical and dental outreach
- ✓ Teaching and educational support
Donate Supplies
Physical donations help meet immediate needs in the community. We collect and distribute essential items throughout the year.
- ✓ Medical supplies and medications
- ✓ School supplies and educational materials
- ✓ Hygiene items and baby supplies
Spread Awareness
Help us share the story of Ek Balam and expand our reach. Your voice can inspire others to get involved and make a difference.
- ✓ Share our content on social media
- ✓ Host an information session at your church
- ✓ Subscribe to our newsletter and updates
Download Our Information Packet
Learn more about our mission, programs, and how you can get involved with our comprehensive information packet.
Contact
Stay Connected
We'd love to hear from you! Reach out with questions, prayer requests, or to learn more about our mission in Ek Balam.
Contact Information
Mailing Address
Hope for Ek Balam
Ek Balam, Yucatán
Mexico
Response Time
We typically respond to inquiries within 24-48 hours.