An Evening of Impact in Aspen

On August 12, supporters, longtime friends, and new members of the International Esperanza Project® community gathered at the Paul JAS Center for an inspiring Aspen Evening of Impact. With 79 passionate guests in attendance, the evening was a celebration of hope, community, and the transformative impact of coming together to create lasting change in Guatemala.

The evening featured a heartfelt conversation moderated by esteemed host Dodee Crockett, with Cindy Engles and Patrick McGarry sharing their personal journeys with International Esperanza Project® and reflecting on what continues to inspire their commitment to the organization and its work. Guests also viewed a moving video presentation that brought the impact of IEP’s programs to life, highlighting the families and communities whose lives are being changed through access to healthcare, education, and essential resources.

At the heart of the evening were the personal stories that demonstrate why this work matters. Dr. Jorge Corona shared the deeply touching story of a young surgical patient whose life was transformed through care provided by an IEP surgical team. Once facing social isolation because of his disability, the child is now able to live with greater confidence, joy, and inclusion within his community.

The evening also highlighted the perspective of the next generation of supporters. Matthew McGarry spoke about his experiences participating in mission trips to Guatemala and how connecting directly with families and communities created a profound and lasting shift in the way he sees the world.

Beyond the stories and conversations, guests enjoyed a delicious dinner, meaningful connections, and a beautiful musical performance that brought the evening to a close.

The Aspen Evening of Impact was more than an evening together. It was a reminder of what is possible when people choose to show up, connect, and invest in the lives of others. International Esperanza Project® is deeply grateful to everyone who joined us, shared their support, and continues to believe in the power of creating lasting change together.