OUR STORY
A journey of faithin action
A Vision Takes Root
In 1987, Mario and Suzanne Babarczy embarked on a journey that would impact generations. What began as a small educational initiative in Massachusetts would grow into an international movement transforming young lives across the Americas.
The early years saw Mario and Suzanne teaching local children and organizing educational events, their vision expanding with each passing year. After five years of ministry throughout New England, they received a clear calling that would change everything: take this vision to the nations.
Into the Nations
In 1993, the Babarczys took a leap of faith, moving their young family to Guatemala to establish Hearts in Action’s first international base. Their innovative approach to children’s ministry and values-based education quickly gained recognition, opening doors to hundreds of schools and opportunities to train thousands of teachers.
By 1999, God led them to establish their main campus in the heart of the Maya Biosphere in Petén, Guatemala. This remote jungle location became more than just a base—it became a symbol of Hearts in Action’s commitment to reaching the most underserved communities with transformative education and spiritual formation.
Growing Impact
What started in Guatemala has blossomed into a multi-national organization with strategic bases across Latin America. Through divine connections and strategic partnerships, Hearts in Action has established thriving ministry centers in:
Our Bases
GUATEMALA
Location: Petén, Maya Biosphere
Directors: Mario & Suzanne Babarczy
PERÚ
Location: Lima & Amazon
Directors: Paul & Alida Bowers / Raúl & Esther Ruíz
MÉXICO
Location: Mexico City
Directors: Xaume & Ana Bueno
COLOMBIA
Location: Bogotá
Directors: Ivan & Claudia Patiño
Today's Impact
From that first small group of children in Oklahoma to millions of lives touched across the Americas, Hearts in Action has remained true to its founding vision: transforming the next generation through biblical values and education.
Today, our organization encompasses:
-40 full-time staff at our Guatemalan campus
-Hundreds of team members and volunteers across all bases
-Partnerships with schools, churches, and governments
-Innovative programs reaching urban and rural communities
-Specialized training for teachers and ministry leaders
The Journey Continues
Mario and Suzanne continue to lead Hearts in Action with the same passion that sparked its beginning, now supported by dedicated teams across four nations. While our reach has grown, our heart remains unchanged: seeing young lives transformed and communities strengthened through the power of God’s Word and biblical values.