“The King will reply, ‘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

I’m excited—and honestly humbled—to share about an opportunity God has placed in front of me. Beginning in June 2026, I will be spending a full year in Lima, Peru, serving with the International Justice Mission (IJM). This page shares more about where I’m going, what I’ll be doing, and how you can partner with me through prayer and support.

Why I’m Going

Simply put, I believe God is calling me to go.

At the end of last year, I was asking God for opportunities to step out in faith—to live not just comfortably, but courageously. Not long after, this opportunity with IJM came into view. It aligns closely with the passions God has been forming in me at Hope: law, human rights, justice, Spanish, my Christian faith, and a growing love for the nations.

If I’m honest, the idea of raising support for an entire year initially felt overwhelming. But as I prayed, something became clear—this wasn’t about having everything figured out. It was about trust. One by one, other doors closed, and this one remained open.

So I’m stepping through it.

Where I’m Going: Lima, Peru

Lima is the capital of Peru, a vibrant city of over 10 million people. It’s a place full of culture, history, beauty, and incredible hospitality. I had the chance to spend a few days there last year, and I was struck by the warmth and generosity of the people.

But alongside that beauty, there is also deep need.

Violence—especially against women and children—is a significant issue in Peru. Many live in environments where safety and justice are not guaranteed. This is where IJM is doing critical work.

What I’ll Be Doing

I will be serving as an intern with IJM’s office in Lima, specifically on the Investigations and Law Enforcement Development team.

IJM partners with local justice systems to:

• Investigate crimes

• Rescue victims

• Prosecute offenders

• Strengthen long-term systems of justice

My role will include supporting research, assisting with case preparation, and contributing to fieldwork that equips local authorities to better protect vulnerable people.

The long-term goal is sustainable change—strengthening the system so deeply that IJM can eventually step away, leaving a stronger, self-sustaining justice system behind.

Who Will Benefit?

The heart of this work is for women and children affected by violence—that they would experience safety, dignity, and justice.

At the same time, I see my role as supportive. If the IJM team is running the race, I’m carrying the water—encouraging, assisting, and strengthening their work however I can.

And I know this will shape me too. This experience directly aligns with my long-term desire to pursue law and advocate for those who cannot advocate for themselves.

My Hopes for This Year

This year isn’t just about what I’ll do—it’s about who I’ll become.

Some of my hopes:

• To grow in boldness and trust as I step into a new culture and season

• To deepen my understanding of justice, advocacy, and human rights

• To integrate my faith with my vocation in a tangible way

• To build meaningful relationships across cultures

• To witness firsthand how hope and justice can transform lives

I expect it to stretch me. I also believe it will be deeply worth it.

How You Can Pray

If you’re someone who prays, I would be so grateful for your support in this way:

• For boldness and trust as I step into this unknown season

• For provision in Lima—housing, community, and a local church

• For grace and patience as I live and work in Spanish daily

• For peace and resilience as I adjust to a new culture and role

How You Can Partner Financially

To make this year possible, I am trusting God to provide both one-time and ongoing support.

Here’s what that looks like:

• $10,000 needed by June 30, 2026 (one-time support for travel, housing setup, and initial expenses)

• $1,250 per month (ongoing support from June 2026 to June 2027)

I’m specifically praying for:

• 50 people to give $200 one time

• 25 people to give $50 per month

If you’re a college student (like me!) or have a limited budget, please know that any amount—whether one-time or recurring—makes a meaningful difference.

If you feel led to partner with me in this way, you can give through this page.

I don’t take any of this lightly.

Whether you choose to pray, give, or simply follow along, thank you for being part of this journey. I’m stepping into this year with open hands, trusting that God will provide—and grateful for the people He places around me along the way.

I’m excited to see how He moves, not just in me, but through this work in Lima.

With gratitude,
Maya Favors