HOW FRIENDS BECOME FAMILY
We foster a sense of community through consistent gatherings where we explore what it means to be part of the family of God on mission together. This helps us to learn together what it means to be a disciple of Jesus, both from his word and through our collective experiences.
Building Relationships
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Jesus left the glory of heaven and came to earth to reveal the Father's love through relationships. He spent time with people, spoke with them, healed them, fed them, and through these actions, brought transformation and change.
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Jesus didn’t just interact with the crowds—He invested deeply in His 12 disciples, often stepping away from large gatherings to go deeper with them. In the same way, we believe in consistent presence.
We visit the same community centers and orphanages once a month, forming long-term connections with the children. By seeing them regularly, we build trust, and they grow more comfortable with us. Our day visitation trips—typically on the second Saturday of each month—create anticipation for both the children and our volunteers.
These trips go beyond just showing up—we take the kids on meaningful excursions like beach outings, movie trips, and water parks to show them how sacred and valuable their lives are. As Acts 2:42 illustrates, the early church gathered daily, eating together with joy, and God added to their number. We seek to model this same spirit of community. -
During our trips, from 8:00 AM until we return around 6:30 PM, we are "juntos"—together. We travel in vans, walk, serve, eat, play games, and experience another culture without the distractions of our phones.
This shared experience lays the foundation for genuine friendships. Many who have joined us on these simple day trips have formed lifelong bonds, built not on fleeting encounters but on shared service and joy. -
Back in San Diego, these friendships often continue beyond the trips. Whether it’s gathering for meals, meeting up for casual outings, or simply doing life together, relationships naturally deepen.
Over time, you may find yourself joining our church community on Sundays or participating in a midweek group led by Joe Brandi. As we share in prayer, Scripture, and fellowship, we begin to experience what it truly means to be part of God’s family. His Spirit and Word unite us, creating something deeper than just friendship—a spiritual family.
Join us in building relationships that reflect the love of Christ.
Transformation
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The Apostle Paul wrote, "My dear children, for whom I am again in the pains of childbirth until Christ is formed in you" (Galatians 4:19). True transformation begins when Christ takes shape within us, changing our hearts, desires, and actions.
Throughout Scripture, we see how encountering Jesus led to radical change:
- Zacchaeus, a tax collector, was moved to give half of his possessions to the poor after meeting Jesus. He declared, “If I have cheated anybody out of anything, I will pay back four times the amount” (Luke 19:8).
- A sinful woman broke her alabaster jar of perfume at Jesus’ feet, an act of repentance and worship (Luke 7:37-38).
- Tax collectors left their professions to follow Jesus, embracing a new way of life (Matthew 9:9, Luke 5:27-28).
- Saul, once a persecutor of Christians, became Paul, a servant of the church and a messenger of the Gospel (Acts 9:1-22).
- Jesus Himself, upon seeing people suffering, felt deep compassion:
- “When He saw the crowds, He had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd” (Matthew 9:36).
- “When the Lord saw her, His heart went out to her and He said, ‘Don’t cry’” (Luke 7:13). -
On our day trips, we visit Christian orphanages and Christ-centered children’s centers in impoverished neighborhoods, where faithful volunteers dedicate their lives to serving vulnerable children. These Jesus-following men and women embody His love in action, creating an atmosphere of hope, care, and transformation.
Throughout the day, we believe the Holy Spirit will stir your heart—opening your eyes to realities you might never have seen if you had simply stayed in San Diego. As you serve, listen, and connect, God will -
Through prayer, Scripture, and reflection led by our team, we trust that something inside you will begin to change—if you are open to it. Transformation isn’t just about what we do for others; it’s about what God does in us.
Come, serve, and allow yourself to be transformed.
Service
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"For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many."
Love is demonstrated through service—laying down your life for others. James challenges us: "If you see your brother in need of daily food and clothing and do nothing about it, where is your faith?" (James 2:15-16).
At Amigos 2 Familia, we strive to meet these needs by bringing donated items such as clothing, school supplies, household essentials, and food to children and families in need. Our website hosts ongoing campaigns to support these efforts. -
"There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them." (1 Corinthians 12:4)
Our mission requires more than one type of person to succeed. Each of us has unique gifts from God, and when we come together, we form one body with Christ as the head. Some are called to give, some to serve, some to pray—but all are needed. -
"Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress..." (James 1:27)
There is something transformative about simply visiting. You don’t have to build a school in a day (though those projects are incredible). Instead, you build an experience, creating a day of joy, connection, and love for these children.
By serving, you walk in the footsteps of Jesus—the ultimate servant. Shouldn’t we strive to be like Him and see what happens? Studies show that acts of kindness and service increase happiness and fulfillment. In contrast, so much of our culture revolves around individualism. These trips create a crack in our self-focused worldview, allowing God to shift our hearts toward others. -
Prayer is at the heart of everything we do. One of our board members leads a dedicated prayer team, interceding for the children we visit. At the end of each trip, we gather the children in a circle and pray over them. These prayers might never have been spoken had we not shown up.
By going, serving, and praying, we make space for God to work—both in the lives of those we meet and in our own hearts.Join us. Serve with us. Pray with us. Let’s see what happens when we give our lives to love.
Glorifying God Through
Relationship and Service
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Our organization exists for God and His glory. At His very essence, God is relationship—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, three in one, eternally loving and communicating with one another. From the beginning, God created humanity for relationship with Him and to glorify Him by reflecting His nature—though we are not God, we are made in His image (Genesis 1:27).
When we love one another, form friendships, become family, visit and serve the poor—especially orphaned children—God smiles, and He is glorified. -
Jesus teaches us the sacredness of serving others:
"Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me." (Matthew 25:40)
When we offer even a single cup of water to someone in need, we are serving Jesus Himself (Matthew 10:42). Likewise, when we help the poor, we remain in constant prayer, and God delights in the prayers of His children:
*"The prayer of the upright pleases Him."* (Proverbs 15:8)
As He answers our prayers and provides for those in need, we proclaim His praises:
"But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's special possession, that you may declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His wonderful light." (1 Peter 2:9)
God inhabits the praises of His people, dwelling among us as we glorify Him:"Yet You are holy, enthroned on the praises of Israel." (Psalm 22:3)
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Another powerful way we bring glory to God is through our unity on service trips. Jesus prayed that His followers would be one, so that the world would believe in Him:
"That they may be brought to complete unity. Then the world will know that You sent Me and have loved them even as You have loved Me." (John 17:23)
On our trips, we always welcome those who do not attend church or openly follow Jesus. Jesus Himself spent time with those outside of religious circles—eating with tax collectors, speaking with sinners, and offering love and truth to all (Mark 2:15-17, Luke 19:10). -
At Amigos 2 Familia, everything we do is about making God known and glorifying Him. As we serve together, build relationships, and extend love to those in need, we participate in His mission. And as we do, the world changes—both around us and within us.
Join us in glorifying God through love, service, and unity.
OUR MISSION
Our mission is to mobilize the North American church to embody the love of Christ to vulnerable children and orphans in Latin America through short-term trips, discipleship formation, and giving to tangible needs of the children.
CHURCH PARTNERS
MEET THE TEAM
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BOARD MEMBER
SECRETARY
Derek has shared God’s love among the marginalized, oppressed, and displaced for over 20 years. This passion has taken him all over the world which included living overseas with his family for a time serving refugees fleeing the Middle East. Derek spends his days leading a non-profit that serves refugee communities and inviting people to find and follow Jesus. Derek has been married for over 25 years and has two beautiful daughters. He loves to travel and meet new friends from diverse cultures. Derek’s formal education includes graduate degrees in theology, philosophy, and education.
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BOARD MEMBER
Vicki Petkevich is dedicated to service and ministry with a particular emphasis on serving women and children. For over three decades, she has been actively involved in Children's Ministry, Bible Studies, and Public Schools. She has served in various roles, most recently as Global Leadership Coordinator for Moms in Prayer International and volunteer at Sea Change in La Jolla. Vicki is devoted to creating a welcoming atmosphere that encourages prayer, building relationships, and facilitating spiritual growth.Vicki is married to Danny and together they have four amazing adult children. Danny is her biggest fan. He continually leads her on wild adventures all over the world seeking opportunities to impact lives with the love of Jesus, while providing unwavering support and encouragement for all her endeavors.
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TV DIRECTOR/FILM MAKER
Born in Brazil and a graduate in Radio and Television, she moved to California in 2009 to study journalism. Since starting her career in 1999, she has worked as a filmmaker and director for major networks including MTV, Netflix, Amazon Prime, and the Discovery Channel.She currently serves as the head director for Ex on the Beach (MTV Brazil/Paramount Plus) and recently directed Queens on the Run, a drag queen competition show for Amazon Studios. Her other directing credits include campaigns for Facebook, Bumble Mexico, Red Bull, and the documentary Sissi for FIFA+.
A member of AWD and WIF, she also serves as a juror for international film festivals, recognized for her expertise in entertainment and storytelling.
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SOCIAL MEDIA SPECIALIST
Daniela is a medical doctor who graduated in 2025 and is committed to making a positive impact on individuals’ lives.Beginning in 2020, she has served as a virtual assistant, supporting professionals including spiritual coaches, real estate agents, and nonprofit leaders.
Daniela’s dedication to service and empathy informs her current role with Amigos 2 Familia, where she works to provide support and improved opportunities for children in need.
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BOARD MEMBER
LATIN AMERICA OPERATIONS
Nick, a native of Colombia, has spent most of his life in San Diego. In 2019, a visit to an orphanage in Tijuana stirred something deep in his heart. What began as a simple trip quickly became a divine appointment—God used that moment to reveal Nick’s purpose: to serve and advocate for vulnerable children. Shortly after, Nick surrendered his life to Christ and was baptized. Fluent in both English and Spanish, Nick brings not only his language skills but also his cultural understanding to the mission field. His passion for children, combined with his faith and experience, allows him to build meaningful connections and share the love of Jesus across borders. When he’s not serving with the ministry or helping families find their forever homes, you’ll likely find Nick out in the ocean, surfing the waves of San Diego or Mexico—grateful for the peace and beauty of God’s creation.
Nick, a native of Colombia, has spent most of his life in San Diego. In 2019, a visit to an orphanage in Tijuana stirred something deep in his heart. What began as a simple trip quickly became a divine appointment—God used that moment to reveal Nick’s purpose: to serve and advocate for vulnerable children. Shortly after, Nick surrendered his life to Christ and was baptized. Fluent in both English and Spanish, Nick brings not only his language skills but also his cultural understanding to the mission field. His passion for children, combined with his faith and experience, allows him to build meaningful connections and share the love of Jesus across borders. When he’s not serving with the ministry or helping families find their forever homes, you’ll likely find Nick out in the ocean, surfing the waves of San Diego or Mexico—grateful for the peace and beauty of God’s creation.
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TREASURER
Mike Wells is a CPA with over 40 years of experience and leads Wells Financial Consulting in Lakeland, FL. A graduate of the University of Florida, he has served on numerous mission trips around the world and joined Amigos 2 Familia after witnessing the need for the Gospel and education in Latin America. Mike brings deep financial expertise to the board, with past roles including Certified Business Appraiser, Valuation Analyst, and founding bank director. As Treasurer, he supports financial accountability and fundraising while continuing his passion for missions, church service, and community impact.
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ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT & ENGLISH TEACHER
Sofía Valenzuela is a 20-year-old student at UABC in Tijuana, Baja California, where she is pursuing a degree in Languages with a specialization in Translation.Her journey with DUNAMIS began several years ago when she joined as a volunteer on mission trips to local orphanages, working alongside Marco, the director of the ministry. Over time, her role expanded, and she now serves as both an English teacher for the children and the administrative assistant between DUNAMIS and A2F.
Sofía has had a heart for missions from a young age. She is actively involved in the missionary group at her church and has long felt God's call to serve. While committed to her education, she knew that when the opportunity to serve through DUNAMIS arose, it was the right time to step in—and she’s been faithfully involved for over four years.
She has a deep love for children and finds great joy in teaching, playing, and growing alongside them. For Sofía, being part of DUNAMIS is more than a role—it’s a calling and a blessing that allows her to serve the Lord through the gifts He has given her.
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VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR
Jeilis is a passionate volunteer coordinator and a civil engineer with experience guiding and supporting volunteers throughout their journey with Amigos2Familia. She brings strong organizational skills, clear communication, and a heart for service to every step of the volunteer experience—from first contact to trip participation and follow-up. Jeilis believes deeply in creating meaningful connections, ensuring every volunteer feels prepared, supported, and aligned with the mission of serving vulnerable communities with compassion and purpose.
Joe is a pastor with a Master of Divinity degree and has been teaching God’s word and leading small groups for over 25 years. He has a passion for sharing Christ’s love with others who have open and curious hearts. He is passionate about fostering groups that meet consistently together and grow deeper in God’s word.
In 2010, Joe founded Unity 4 Orphans, a nonprofit that helps orphaned and vulnerable children break the cycle of poverty through education, nutrition, counseling, and community. This holistic model has successfully changed the trajectory of children’s lives in Jesus’ name.
When he isn’t teaching others about God’s love or pursuing initiatives to help the children in U4O’s programs, Joe can be found surfing, drinking coffee, and exploring other cultures.
Joe Brandi
BOARD MEMBER | PRESIDENT
AMBASSADORS
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As an ambassador with Amigos2Familia, I build relationships with the kids, guide new volunteers on trips, and help coordinate daily needs at the orphanage such as games, meals, and donations alongside the staff. I became involved after feeling a calling to serve on a mission, even though I never felt led overseas. Having practiced Spanish in small ways throughout my life and becoming friends with the group’s leader, Joe, I joined a trip and immediately knew God had been preparing this path for me. Through serving in other ministries and building friendships across the border, my heart grew for Tijuana and the surrounding communities, and it became clear this is where I was meant to serve. One of the greatest joys for me is seeing how the volunteers are changed as well—their hearts are opened, perspectives shift, and God works in us just as much as He does through us for the kids.
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I see my role as an ambassador of Amigos2Familia as simply being an ambassador of God’s love. My own life was changed when I came to understand how deeply loved and precious I was to God, and I want these children to experience that same love through everything I do with and for them. Many of the children have painful pasts, but when they are secure in God’s love, they can overcome great obstacles and grow up to become ambassadors of God’s love themselves. That is my ultimate goal.
I also deeply care about helping them gain practical skills and tools that will prepare them for a brighter future and empower them to positively impact the world around them.
Matthew 28:18-20
“And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”