Karol soon learned these meetings were part of ASJ’s (formerly known as AJS) research to prepare for community auditing of local public schools and health clinics. During these open sessions, community members came together to map out how to improve medicine delivery in local clinics and teacher attendance in schools. Then they strategized about how to raise their collective voice in an environment resistant to accountability.

During the first meetings, Karol felt shy and too nervous to speak, but she still decided to attend every single meeting because she believed that her local school and health clinic could give her three children the quality services they deserved.

When Karol heard about the opportunity to be a community auditor, she confided in ASJ social workers that she didn’t see how she could add any value to the project. She felt that her situation of poverty, education level, and family circumstances reduced her ability to contribute. Sadly, this is a common belief among community members, especially among those with limited literacy. These insecurities are a deeper reflection of the barriers to justice that ASJ’s work addresses.

An additional potential barrier was Karol’s location. Karol lives in one of the most dangerous sectors within her community, causing her to feel withdrawn and afraid, and to avoid leaving her home as much as possible.

Despite these barriers, Karol decided to become a volunteer auditor evaluating doctors’ treatment of patients and the availability of textbooks and learning materials in classrooms. In every meeting, she felt more like she belonged as the ASJ team of social workers worked to create a safe space where Karol and other community members felt strengthened to be leaders in their community.

Through the process of becoming a community auditor, Karol has deeply reflected on her own dignity as a human being. Her newfound confidence and her interaction with the ASJ team sparked an interest in social work and inspired her to enroll in university! Karol is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in social work.

In the mornings, Karol works sweeping the streets in her community, but in the afternoons she goes to her university classes. She does all this while also caring for her three little children and actively speaking up to local authorities to provide local schools and clinics with the resources they need.

For Hondurans like Karol, community auditing is not just a project, it is an opportunity to create a brighter future for their families. ASJ is honored to come alongside community members like Karol as they tackle corruption and mismanagement that affects their lives. Together, we grow in hope and work for a better future in Honduras.