About Us

For over two decades, HEDAC has stood as a beacon of hope, dedicated to transforming the lives of Honduran children and families.

Our journey began amidst the chaos and devastation of Hurricane Mitch in 1998, a cataclysmic event that tore through communities, leaving behind a trail of destruction and despair. Witnessing the profound suffering of our Honduran brothers and sisters, a group of compassionate souls from Chicago united under the banner of United Friends of Honduras, driven by a shared purpose – to make a difference, no matter how small, in the lives of those in need.

As Hurricane Mitch ravaged the land, it also ignited a flame within our hearts, propelling us into action. Led by the unwavering determination of our founder, Lorena Bredemeier, we embarked on a mission to bring relief and solace to the shattered communities of Morazan, Yoro. With every donated item packed into containers bound for Honduras, we sent not just supplies, but a message of solidarity and compassion – a promise that they were not alone in their darkest hour.

But our journey didn’t end with emergency aid. We recognized that true change could only come through education and empowerment. Thus, in 2005, we made a pivotal decision to shift our focus from relief to education, laying the foundation for a brighter future for Honduran children. It was a decision born out of a deep-rooted belief in the transformative power of education – a belief that every child, regardless of circumstance, deserves the opportunity to thrive and succeed.

Over the years, we have worked tirelessly to support the educational aspirations of Honduran youth, from infrastructure improvements in rural schools to the establishment of scholarship programs for those in need. We have witnessed firsthand the profound impact of our efforts – the joy in a child’s eyes as they receive a backpack filled with school supplies, the gratitude of a family as their child receives a scholarship to continue their education.

But our journey is far from over. 

At HEDAC, our work is driven by more than just a mission – it is fueled by love, empathy, and a deep sense of responsibility to our global community. In 2024, we are launching our technical school.   We invite you to join us in our quest to create a brighter future for Honduran children, one filled with hope, opportunity, and the promise of a better tomorrow. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we can build a world where every child has the chance to thrive.