Ignite International has established itself as one of the premier organizations that is radically impacting the nation of Nicaragua. Ignite short-term mission teams tour regularly with the women’s national volleyball team, and have taken the Gospel to more than 15 cities, reaching literally thousands upon thousands of people. Ignite partners with a variety of local and States-based entities for its activities and is honored to be part of each ministry and outreach effort. Ignite provides a unique draw to the established work of these partners and is grateful for the labor which is poured out by so many on behalf of the people in what has very affectionately become known as “our home away from home.”
Nicaragua, too often only known as the 2nd poorest nation in the Western Hemisphere, has a wealth of reserve when it comes to the warmth of its heart and the love of its people. It has been and will forever be at the center of the heart of Ignite International. The needs are great, but the love and hope which we have been able to bring are making an Eternal difference.
Abre Los Cielos - Ingrid Rosario (used with permission)
Ignite International is especially grateful for our friendship with the Nicaragua Volleyball Federation since 2004. In every country to which Ignite travels, there are groups and individuals that settle deeply in our heart. To date, there is none that has done so like the Nicaragua Volleyball Federation and its Women’s National Volleyball Team, in particular. Through our partnership and competition across the nation, Ignite teams have shared the love of God with thousands of people who might otherwise never hear through traditional methods.
In 2006, Ignite International Founder Judy Fox felt led to invest her own expertise and experience from years of high level coaching into the development of the National Team as she traveled with them as an Assistant Coach to the Central America Championships. Since that time, she has traveled to Nicaragua regularly to serve as a trainer and consultant to the National Team and their coaching staff. As a result, Judy Fox played the key role in making history for the entire nation of Nicaragua as she connected one of the National Team athletes with a long-time collegiate coaching friend. In February of 2007, Jackeline Toruño became the first female athlete in Nicaragua’s national history to receive a scholarship to a university in the USA – a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for a nation in need of hope, and a reflection of the depth of relationship which Ignite’s founder holds on both ends. The coach that offered the scholarship never saw this athlete train until she walked on to campus as a freshman. The trust in the recommendation of Ignite’s leader was clear, and a dream was set in motion for the youth of Nicaragua.
Ignite International looks forward to a long and lasting friendship with Nicaragua and is excited to see fruit from the seeds that have been sown over the past 7 years. We have established partnerships with incredible depth, and are grateful for the many organizations, churches, ministries and individuals with whom we partner to make an impact. Each one plays a unique role, and it is our blessing to be connected with such a variety of Kingdom people who are making a difference.
Whether we are conducting sports clinics in schools, visiting orphanages, assisting with feeding programs, speaking in churches/schools, sponsoring students for the opportunity to get an education, or working with local ministry partners to disciple New Believers, our job is just getting started. The mandate we were given in 2004 was specific: “It will be a long-term relationship that will require a long-term commitment. But you will see long-term fruit, and when they GET it, they will really get it!” We are committed to that end, and we will continue to relentlessly pursue its fulfillment and deepen the bonds that we already enjoy!
If you are considering a short-term missions opportunity, connect with Ignite International in Nicaragua. Any sport, any activities, any level – we have the relationships to make it happen, and you WILL return home changed forever!!