Our Story

Since 2020

Fighting For A Brighter Future

Iquitos, Peru stole our hearts the first time we visited. In a city struck by such extreme poverty, the people have little hope for the future. Many children are growing up without access to a quality education, and many parents are unable to invest in a sustainable career or provide for their families. After countless trips to the city and time spent with the locals, these families became friends, and their reality became much more real to us. 

We met hundreds of families that have difficulty maintaining consistent food and shelter and met too many children who are not receiving any education at all. We witnessed poverty so intense that parents are forced to cease caring for their child or children, and these displaced children are left to live on the street. It is believed that the child will have a better life there than in a family where they can no longer be cared for, however, we discovered that many of these children become victims of sex and drug trafficking instead.

After years of serving this community through short-term trips, we knew we needed to do something more. It was placed on our hearts to create an organization designed to work with families individually and empower them to create change in their own lives. We decided to follow our passion and make a permanent home in Iquitos, among the people that we care so deeply for. This allows us to build intentional relationships characterized by support, growth and love. We believe that if we all work together to advance opportunity and well-being, these families can rise into a brighter future. This is how Rise Together was born.

– Zach & Bronte Howard, Co-Founders

Our Team