About Growth in Giving
Our Mission
Our Thoughts
Our Thoughts
To empower underprivileged youth by providing access to educational and athletic opportunities that would otherwise be out of reach. At the same time, to offer those with privilege the chance to grow through the act of giving—recognizing that true growth comes not only to the receiver but also to the giver.
Our Thoughts
Our Thoughts
Our Thoughts
We often think the one receiving a donation is the only one who benefits. But the growth in giving doesn’t stop there.
We are hardwired to work together — to ask, “How can I help?”
The answer to that question becomes a personal guide to making a difference.
No gift — whether it’s time, talent, or resources — is ever wasted when offered wit
We often think the one receiving a donation is the only one who benefits. But the growth in giving doesn’t stop there.
We are hardwired to work together — to ask, “How can I help?”
The answer to that question becomes a personal guide to making a difference.
No gift — whether it’s time, talent, or resources — is ever wasted when offered with purpose.
Right now, our focus is on uplifting the lives of local youth in San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua — creating educational and athletic opportunities that would otherwise be out of reach without the generosity of those who choose to give.
The answer to that question will guide you into how best to make a difference. No gift that you have or desire to help will be wasted.
Currently, we focus our time and energy to uplifting local youths' lives in San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua to provide opportunity that would have been out of reach without the gifts given.
Our Story
Our Thoughts
Our Story
Vanessa Pattison is the co-founder of Growth In Giving, a grassroots organization based in San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua, that empowers local youth through education, mentorship, and community engagement. Originally from the U.S., Vanessa has spent nearly 20 years living in Nicaragua, where she raised her family and built deep, enduring rel
Vanessa Pattison is the co-founder of Growth In Giving, a grassroots organization based in San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua, that empowers local youth through education, mentorship, and community engagement. Originally from the U.S., Vanessa has spent nearly 20 years living in Nicaragua, where she raised her family and built deep, enduring relationships within the community she now calls home.
Motivated by the needs she saw firsthand, Vanessa co-founded Growth In Giving to create real, lasting opportunities for young people — many of whom face systemic barriers to education and advancement. Her work focuses on providing not just resources, but mentorship, life skills, and a supportive community that helps youth believe in themselves and their potential.
Vanessa’s leadership is defined by transparency, collaboration, and a personal investment in every project. She works side by side with local families, schools, and volunteers to ensure that each donation has a direct and measurable impact. From scholarships and school supplies to leadership workshops and service opportunities, Growth In Giving is about creating a cycle of support — where young people are empowered to give back and lead within their own communities.
Donors can feel confident knowing their contributions go toward sustainable, locally informed solutions — guided by someone who has lived and served in the heart of the community for nearly two decades. Vanessa’s passion, integrity, and hands-on approach are the foundation of a program that’s not only changing lives, but nurturing the next generation of leaders in Nicaragua.
Stephanie Bennett is the co-founder of Growth In Giving, a nonprofit focused on expanding educational opportunities for youth in San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua. Based in Oregon, Stephanie brings over two decades of experience in community volunteering, nonprofit leadership, and organizational development.
Her connection to Nicaragua began nearly 18 years ago during a visit with her young son, where she was deeply moved by the warmth and eagerness of the local children. After witnessing the grassroots impact of her close friend Vanessa Pattison, Stephanie saw the potential to build something greater. Together, they transformed Growth In Giving into an official nonprofit, combining Vanessa’s deep community ties with Stephanie’s systems and strategy background.
Passionate about equity in education, Stephanie believes that real change happens when all children are given the opportunity to thrive. Her leadership continues to help create meaningful, sustainable opportunities for youth with big dreams and limited access.
Give A Gift
Help us grow a future built on hope, service, and the power of giving. Growth In Giving is a 501(c)(3) non-profit.