Meet Gabriela
Nurse at Constanza School | Studying Psychology | Soccer Player & Trainer
“From the beginning, He told me, ‘I am your everything. I am your provider. You depend on Me.’”
These words from God have shaped Gabriela’s journey. The first in her family to attend university, Gabriela is pursuing a degree in Psychology with the support of a Kids Alive DR scholarship—while also serving as the Constanza School nurse.
In high school, Gabriela became a part of the KADR family in Constanza when she joined the after-school soccer program, designed to teach values, keep kids in school, and share the good news of Jesus. After high school graduation, she had a promising future: a promotion at her job which included a scholarship to a prestigious university. But that vision changed suddenly. “I was let go from my job, and everything I had in place for starting university fell through. I felt like everything collapsed.”
God used KADR staff in that moment of crisis to open a new door. Gabriela was invited to work as the nurse at the Constanza School while also helping with the soccer program. At that time, she also applied for and received a KADR university scholarship. “I feel very blessed because the ministry has given me the opportunity to go to university, which before I didn’t have the chance to do because of my family <circumstances>. Thanks to God, I felt very fortunate to have the opportunity to serve the ministry and to apply the knowledge I’m acquiring at university.”
Gabriela teaching Motor Sensory class. She is loved by the students!
Gabriela also pours into her church community, serving in worship, leading the dance group, mentoring youth, and working as the secretary. Though her schedule is full, she says, “I always know that the Lord is my priority.”
Her heart of service comes from her love for Christ and her trust in God’s plan. She often returns to Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope” which she finds in Christ Jesus. Gabriela shares, “Every time something sudden happens in my life, or something makes me feel anxious or rushed—wondering what will happen—I remember that verse where the Lord says, ‘I know the plans I have for you.’”
“I feel very, very grateful” for the donors who support the scholarship fund. With tears, Gabriela shares, “Honestly, the simple fact that someone who doesn’t know me—doesn’t know my name or my story—would choose to give… I pray to God for them. I pray that He will always provide for them so they can continue helping others. And as a form of gratitude, I also want to help other youth. I always try to inspire them and say: ‘Study. Prepare yourself. God has great plans for you.’”
Dr. Leslie Trautwein, who oversees KADR health care notes that Gabriela excels in her role as the school nurse. The students know she is a safe and trustworthy person. They come to her with physical scrapes and heart aches, and Gabriela ministers to their bodies and souls. Last year she logged thousands of visits from students and is helping to develop systems of care for the ministry. Her joy is contagious as she dedicates her days to encouraging both students and fellow staff members.
“My goal is that when I finish my degree, I’ll be able to put all this knowledge into practice in service to the ministry. It’s like giving by grace what I have received by grace.”
We are grateful for the plans God has for Gabriela, and for the way He is providing for her needs through many while using her to meet the needs of so many others.
Leslie (Medical Director) and Gabriela (Constanza Nurse) preparing to take heights and weights of all students at Constanza School
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