where the heart
finds its place
Discover the history, team, and passion that drive SALEM Ecuador every day in Mindo.
"A community center in Mindo, Ecuador, providing high-quality care, education, and social services for children, young people, and families in vulnerable situations."
"Guided by a deeply humanistic and community-centered vision, we work to provide a safe and supportive space."
A place where children and adolescents can learn, play, and explore their talents. A place to grow within a community that welcomes them with respect and dignity.
Our work focuses especially on children and adolescents in vulnerable situations.
We provide holistic support that combines emotional care, education, and psychosocial support, strengthening their well-being today and their opportunities for a fuller future.
Over the years, SALEM has become a place of connection and protection for the children and adolescents in our community. We have helped improve their nutrition and eating habits, raised awareness about where food comes from and about sustainable practices, and strengthened families’ active participation in healthier lifestyles and positive relationships. Thanks to our team’s commitment and the valuable support of national and international partners, we continue to create real, lasting impact in Mindo—expanding opportunities, nurturing relationships, and transforming the lives of those who need it most.
The Engine that Drives us
Mission
Improving the quality of life and defending the rights of children, young people, and families in vulnerable situations in the parish of Mindo through a Community Center and a collaborative network with institutions, businesses, nongovernmental organizations, neighborhoods, and civil society.
Vision
We are a model of social organization that supports the families we serve in building a dignified, sustainable, and regenerative way of life.
Values
Non-violence, Safety and Protection
We prioritize the physical safety and emotional well-being of everyone who is part of SALEM, promoting an environment of care and respect for children, adolescents, young people, and our team.
We live a culture of peace through respect, mutual care, and harmonious coexistence, preventing all forms of violence and recognizing the dignity of all living beings.
Openness to new ideas
Grounded in our values, we remain open to new ways of thinking and acting. Our approach draws on unconventional paths in education and care, always guided by respect for living beings and nature. We integrate alternative pedagogies that prioritize the holistic development of children, adolescents, and young people. We also promote a vegetarian diet, designed and supported by a comprehensive nutrition plan that ensures balanced, mindful, and age-appropriate meals at every stage of development.
Care of the environment and animals
We recognize nature and animals as part of divine creation. For this reason, protecting and preserving the natural environment and animals is an essential commitment that runs through all our work.
Quality of life – family atmosphere
We teach social skills. Through trusting relationships in a family-like environment and a sense of home, we give people the support they need to become part of society.
One team, one mission.
Sixteen hearts working as one for the future of our children.
Jonas Lange
Director
Lady Estela
Assistant
Silvana Sáenz
House Guide 1 (ages 4–7)
Sebastian Orozco
House Guide 2 (ages 8–12)
Paula Patiño
House Guide 3 (ages 13–16)
Marcela Cruz
Sewing Workshop Facilitator
Nataly Robles
Psychologist
Paola López
Social worker
Marcela Fuentes
Psychological Advisor
Daniela Balarezo
Pedagogical Advisor
Fernanda Tuarez
Nutrition
Cesar Arias
Gardener
Eliel Daboin
Cleaning staff
Peyman Esteghamat
Volunteer
Support Network
Our Allies
SALEM Ecuador is supported by local, national, and international organizations and NGOs that make our work in Mindo possible.
Corporate Sponsorship Program
This is a long-term financial sustainability strategy. We are supported by companies, businesses, service providers, and individuals who contribute monthly to support our mission.
Would you like to be part of it?
Contact Jonas Lange:
Local Support Network
Today, our network brings together organizations, initiatives, and individuals committed to the holistic development of the community in Mindo.
With the support of
