The Story of Champions in Action: How a Vision Became a Movement

When people search for mission trips to Guatemala, Gospel-centered youth programs, or Christian sports ministries, they’re often seeking more than just information—they’re looking for a calling, a purpose, and a place to make a difference. That’s exactly how Champions in Action was born.

A Calling Planted in the Heart

In 2001, Jonathan Jakubowski traveled to Guatemala as a missionary. What he saw there would shape the next two decades of his life. On the streets of Guatemala City, he encountered fatherless children, filled with energy and joy, but also surrounded by hardship. They had two things in common: A deep love for soccer, and a shared language—Spanish—which allowed Jonathan to connect with them in a personal way. Those six months planted a seed. It would take a few more years for that seed to grow into a full-blown vision. In 2005, while walking along a quiet river in northwest Ohio, God made the vision clear. Jonathan saw how the power of sport, particularly soccer, could be used as a transformational tool to reach youth in vulnerable communities. That day, Champions in Action was born—founded not just on passion, but on purpose.

What Champions in Action Is Today

Today, Champions in Action is more than just a soccer program. It’s a comprehensive, Christ-centered initiative that reaches hundreds of boys and girls across Guatemala, particularly in high-risk areas, or what locals refer to as "red zones".

We focus on:

✅ Long-term mentorship from trained Christian volunteers.

✅ Spiritual transformation through weekly Bible studies, camps, and devotionals.

✅ Sports as a bridge to deeper life change and community building.

✅ Nutritional support through our monthly food program.

✅ Partnering with local and international churches to facilitate short-term mission trips that bring love and encouragement to youth in need.

Why This Matters

In Guatemala, over 59% of the population lives in poverty, and youth are particularly vulnerable to gang recruitment, violence, and lack of opportunity. But there is hope. Every time a child joins a Champions team, they are surrounded by positive role models, invited into community, and introduced to the life-changing message of Jesus Christ. Through your support, whether by volunteering on a mission trip, becoming a mentor, or donating, you’re part of that transformation.

Join the Movement

If you’ve been praying for a way to make a difference, or searching for your next Christian mission trip opportunity, consider joining us in Guatemala. Whether you love soccer, teaching, mentoring, or simply serving others, there’s a place for you here.

🌎 Discover how you can get involved in short-term missions, sponsor a team, or support our Gospel work in Central America.

🙏 Together, we are raising a generation of Champions—for themselves, their communities, and for Christ.

LEARN MORE!