Tio Lucas

Lucas* was busy in the kitchen making passion fruit juice, when one of his tias, Pilar, entered and poured herself a glass of water. Sometimes self-conscious when people watch him prepare food or snacks, he became nervous and started absent-mindedly adding water to the juice. “Just add a little water, not too much,” Pilar gently guided him, as he continued pouring in more water. But it was too late. He had made an overabundance of juice. “What are you going to do with so much juice?” Pilar teased him. Realizing his mistake, he snatched her glass of water and replaced it with a glass of the newly made juice. Problem solved!

You might recall that eighteen-year-old Lucas, who has a diagnosis of Down Syndrome, graduated from high school early last summer. Since then, his caregivers have been carefully assessing options for how to best utilize his strengths and passions. Hiring him as a part-time tio (uncle) and assistant to the tias (caregivers) at the home in Latacunga seemed to be the perfect fit for him at this time. He is hard-working and enjoys serving others, and rarely needs to be encouraged to complete a task.

Lucas loves the opportunity to employ the kitchen skills he has acquired over the past year in his new job. He enjoys preparing the juice and snacks, and helping wherever there is a need in the kitchen. Additionally, he assists the tias with chores such as changing sheets, folding clothes, cleaning doors and windows, weeding the garden, and cleaning the pool.

During his free time in the afternoons, Lucas can often be found swinging on the swing, enjoying his hobbies, or doing what he does best - looking for more ways to help the tias. Lucas will also have opportunities to use his monthly salary for special outings, travel and purchases that he chooses.

We are so thankful Lucas can contribute his skills and giftings to the home. We are grateful for wise and loving caregivers who know best how to support Lucas as he enters this new season of his life. 

Thank you for being a part of Lucas’ journey, and for helping foster a home for him where his tias are sensitive to his needs and strengths.

Because of your support, Lucas feels affirmed in his new role, and finds joy and fulfillment in ensuring that the essential and useful tasks are completed around the home.

*Lucas’s name has been changed to protect his privacy.