Our youth at NPH, after achieving their independence and graduating from university or another program, become the older brothers and sisters in our family, also known as ‘hermanos mayores’.

The paths that hermanos mayores decide to take are varied and unique. Many pursue their career outside of NPH, while others feel called to come back. They provide their skills and expertise to the home as they become wonderful role models to the little ones.

Jader Rayo

Jader Rayo is one of our hermanos mayores who chose to dedicate his career to NPH and is passionate about supporting the kids. Arriving at the age of 13 to NPH Nicaragua, he grew up in the home, continued his studies and graduated from university, and then returned to work at NPH full time. Even while he was studying at the university, he continued to stay involved in the lives of his younger brothers and sisters and always has taken a great interest in their wellbeing and preparedness for life after NPH.

Since then, Jader has worked in multiple roles with NPH, and currently coordinates the University and Hermano Mayor program at NPH Nicaragua. He has been part of the staff for a total of nine years.

He shares with us his experience, both growing up at NPH and working as a staff member.

Looking back on your childhood at NPH, how did it impact the person you are today?  What NPH did for me was definitely a radical change, I feel like it was NPH that gave direction to my life. I hadn’t found meaning and purpose, but thanks to God I learned that every one of us in this life has just that. Back then, I didn’t think that I would finish primary school let alone university, feel competent in society, and be able to support my small family and NPH as I do now. 

Jader at the home’s first communion in 2009

What do you want for the children at NPH? I would like to continue being an instrument to help the children achieve their goals as they grow up. I would like to see them when they are older with values, and as professionals, and that they keep that family spirit alive that we have inherited here at Nuestros Pequeños Hermanos.

Did you know Father Wasson (founder of NPH)? What is your best memory of him? I remember when I was in my Year of Service, and I was fishing to feed the little ones. Father Wasson told me, “You will be a fisher of MEN.” 

What inspired you to work for NPH? What inspires you currently? Dedicated people with Father Wasson’s vision inspired me to begin working at NPH. Now it’s the effort that I see from so many kids wanting to move forward in their lives, and seeing the service they do for others.

What does NPH mean to you? NPH is something very special, it’s a blessing for my little family and I, and for my brothers and sisters who I have grown up with. 

To learn more about Jader and his story, visit: Jader’s story  

Jader (left) with Mauricio (right) who works at NPH Nicaragua and is also a hermano mayor.