THE TEAM

JORGE ESTÉVEZ,
DIRECTOR OF SECOND CHANCES ECUADOR

Jorge began with Casa Gabriel in 2006, as a mentor for a couple of the boys who were participating at the time. A couple years later, he and his wife, Laura, moved to the US and had their 2 children (Samuel and Karina). In November 2017, they came back to Ecuador and to Casa Gabriel as our house parents. After almost two years living in the home full-time Jorge began a transition to becoming director. In January of 2020 Jorge officially became the director of Casa Gabriel and in 2021 he organized the transition and became the Director of Second Chances Ecuador.

LAURA JENNINGS ESTÉVEZ,
CREATIVE MISSIONS DIRECTOR

Laura first arrived to serve in Ecuador with Youth World in 2006 just after graduating from the University of South Carolina with an art degree. She came excited to serve and put her knowledge of art into action wherever needed. That lead her to so many places from teaching classes to kids at ministry sites like Casa Gabriel and Carmen Bajo to leading teams to Bible Studies based on Art History to creative prayer workshops. Laura married Jorge Estevez the now Director of Second Chances in 2009 and their family serves together always looking for God's leading.

DORIS ESTÉVEZ,
COORDINATOR OF HOPE CENTERS

Doris was born, raised and lives in Quito. While working part time for Second Chances Ecuador she also works at End Slavery Ministries Ecuador. She has a heart for the wounded and the vulnerable. She says that it is a privilege to work with the children at Second Chances Ecuador because they are a vulnerable group that she feels called to defend and advocate for and because while working with them she sees the hand of God transforming not only their lives and future but also positively affecting their families. She hopes to be a bridge for people to regain their dignity and thus be able to see the image of God in themselves.

PHIL DOUCE,
FOUNDER OF CASA GABRIEL

Phil and his wife, Debbie who have four children relocated to Quito, Ecuador in 2002 from Columbia, MO. Initially Phil directed Youth World ministry Hacienda El Refugio.  As a family, they developed a special friendship with a group of street boys. Three years later, what started as a weekly pizza night, turned into what is known today as Casa Gabriel. Phil stepped down as director in January of 2020. Later that year, he and Debbie relocated to the US. Phil continues to work with One Collective as Youth At-Risk Consultant and Specialist.

DARÍO GUAMÁN
TUTOR

Darío has been on staff at Casa Gabriel since 2016. He spends all day in our study room helping with projects and whatever school work comes up, but his specialty is math and science. As most of our young men have a rough educational background, Darío plays a crucial role in helping them succeed in school and in helping them believe that they truly are capable and deserving of success.

MELBA MORENO
SOCIAL WORKER

Melba began with Casa Gabriel in May 2017. As a social worker, she is the liaison who connects us with the families of the young men who live in our home, many of whom come from very difficult situations. She handles the main correspondence with the families, helps coordinate visits, and takes care of any legal actions that may arise. Along with that, simply having someone else who is investing in the lives of our young men they way she does is incredibly impactful. She is available for appointments where she listens to their stories, fears, and hopes and offers words of wisdom and prayer. 

Words from our tutors

  • joel - hc quevedo

    I'm deeply motivated by the opportunity to share the gospel with children and instill spiritual values that guide them toward wisdom.

    What I love most is being part of a spiritually nurturing community with everyone involved in the project—being in that shared space of faith really sustains us.

    To me, Second Chances represents a meaningful opportunity—a support system that invites kids to connect with God through both the foundation’s work and their own acts of kindness.

  • maria - hc sua

    Demonstrating God’s love in a holistic way—spiritually and academically—is at the core of what I do and gives me a deep sense of purpose.

    I strive to create a safe space for children and families, engaging with them through attentive listening, guidance, and support—spiritual, psychological, and educational.

    This initiative truly supports vulnerable groups, offers hope amid challenges, and makes God’s love visible in practical, life-giving ways.

  • carolina - hc same

    Knowing I’m planting seeds for a better tomorrow fills me with hope and purpose. I serve Jesus

    by sharing His word with children who learn quickly and with great enthusiasm. When I see

    them spreading smiles, helping fulfill dreams, and becoming bright lights for their future—that truly moves me.

  • Diana – HC La Comuna

    Serving God through children is a cornerstone of my life. Witnessing their joy as they engage with their schoolwork is an immeasurable reward. It feels like an answer to years of prayer, and I sense the Lord's support as I serve in this capacity.

    This ministry is a blessing to both me and my church, making a meaningful and holistic impact on each child.

  • Carolina – HC Las Vegas

    It reminds me that I was a child, and now I want other kids to discover the purpose God has for their lives.

    I treasure the moments when children share joys and sorrows, feel heard, and reach their parents' hearts through their own schoolwork.

    It’s tangible support and a source of hope that transforms lives from the very heart of the family.

  • Deysi – HC Comite del Pueblo

    Teaching and witnessing children’s progress while supporting them through their individual needs truly fills my heart. I work alongside my team—helping each other and learning together at every stage. This initiative is a meaningful opportunity for both families and children; it’s a blessed ministry that has profoundly shaped my personal and ministerial growth.

  • Jorge – HC Quevedo

    Watching children and teens grow in their faith and discovering the purpose God has for their lives motivates me every single day. I love connecting with them, supporting both their spiritual and personal growth, and creating a space where they feel safe and accepted.

    To me, Second Chances is more than a program—it’s a platform that showcases the grace of God and offers a genuine opportunity for transformation, faith, and renewed hope in Christ.

  • Wilmar – HC Carapungo

    Seeing the joyful, grateful faces of the children and their parents when they achieve good academic results—and knowing that their success comes from their own hard work and God's blessing—inspires me every single day.

    I have the privilege to help, teach, guide, and counsel them in the light of the Bible, serving God first and then the kids. It is truly a blessing and an honor to serve our community, leaving lasting, meaningful impressions on both the children and their families.