We at Opportunity International Canada were deeply saddened to learn earlier this week that COVID-19 took the life of Juan Ulloa, the Executive Director of ASODENIC, our Implementing Partner in Nicaragua.
ASODENIC in an acronym for Asociación de Oportunidad y Desarrollo Económico de Nicaragua (Association of Opportunity and Economic Development of Nicaragua). ASODENIC formed in 1995, and Juan joined as Executive Director in February 1997, following a successful 17-year career with one of the country’s largest banks.
Serving in this role more than 23 years, Juan was an inspiring leader who tirelessly worked to provide the poor with opportunity and economic empowerment. He brought the discipline of a banker and the heart of a pastor to his work, as his personal Christian faith motivated him to serve the poor. Juan also impacted many microfinance leaders in the region, seen by most as a mentor and the Dean of Microfinance in Latin America.
Juan’s legacy is ASODENIC, and the many thousands of individuals, and their families and communities, who were transformed by the simple but powerful idea of financial inclusion and training. As clients acquired sustainable livelihoods, they also grew as leaders and provided opportunities for their neighbours.
Opportunity International Canada is committed to sustain and build on Juan’s legacy by helping ASODENIC stay strong and healthy so that current and future clients can thrive. Addressing the economic instability of the past few years and the current COVID-19 challenge, we were working on a plan with Juan – right up until he was admitted to hospital – to strengthen ASODENIC, so that its work can move forward and impact many more families. The primary need right now is the infusion of new loan funds and operational support, so that these opportunities can be extended to many more that need them. Please consider a generous donation to ASODENIC to help preserve and build on Juan’s legacy.
We also draw your attention to the following private GoFundMe campaign aimed at setting up a scholarship fund for Juan’s children. Please give as generously as you can there.
Juan leaves behind his wife Ivania, and their four children, William (19), Jayson (16), and twins Giovania and Kevin (14). He is survived by older children from his first marriage Enoch, Juan and Raquel. He was recently predeceased by his mother on May 1, his oldest son Amos on June 1, and his younger brother on June 7. Sadly, while in isolation at the hospital, he was unaware of the passing of his son and brother.
In addition to your financial support, please keep Juan’s family and ASODENIC in your prayers.
