Each of our areas of work helps meet the spiritual, educational, and practical needs of the communities we serve in Cd. Juarez, while empowering local leaders to continue this mission for generations to come.
In 2007, Ken and Esmeralda Hanna answered a call to bring the love of Christ to the border city of Cd. Juarez. What began as a small mission has since grown into a multifaceted community center providing education, vocational training, and spiritual support. Their passion for empowering local communities drives everything we do. Today, Onnemi is more than just a mission — it’s a movement of faith, action, and transformation.
Our work focuses on the practical and spiritual needs of individuals and families in Cd. Juarez because it is one of the most underserved areas in Mexico in terms of economic opportunity, living conditions, and education. From providing access to education and vocational skills to offering counseling and spiritual guidance, our goal is to create a pathway to lasting change—one person, one family, one community at a time.
Ken and Esmeralda Hanna are the heart and soul behind Onnemi’s mission. Ken, who grew up in Mexico as a Missionary Kid, witnessed firsthand the immense physical and spiritual needs in the region. This early exposure ignited a lifelong passion for serving underserved communities. His deep understanding of Mexico’s challenges, combined with his faith, laid the foundation for what would eventually become Onnemi.
Ken met Esmeralda while both were studying at the Moody Bible Institute, where they bonded over their shared commitment to ministry and discipleship. Esmeralda, with her heart for service and leadership, brought an invaluable perspective to their partnership. Before founding Onnemi, Ken served as a Youth Pastor at Leroy Community Chapel, working closely with young people to cultivate faith and leadership skills.
Pati grew up in Jimenez, Chihuahua, Mexico, in a Christian family, moving to Juarez at age 9. Chuy, from Francisco Del Oro, also had a Christian upbringing and moved to Juarez at age 11, where he and Pati met in a church community and eventually married. Struggling with addiction, Chuy’s choices nearly ended their marriage. Determined to save their family, Pati left city life, praying for her husband’s transformation and a life dedicated to serving God.
About 20 years ago, they moved to the outskirts of Juarez, settling in a simple shack in Granjas Del Progreso with two small children. A year later, they began meeting with Mark Livengood to read scripture, joined later by Ken and Esmeralda, and Pati recognized that her prayers had been answered. Today, Pati directs the community center while Chuy manages construction and maintenance. Together, as the first Mexican nationals to lead this ministry, they are pillars of hope and service in their
community.
As proud as we are of what we have been able to accomplish already, we know how much there still is to do. Our vision is to create sustainable, faith-centered communities where individuals are equipped to serve, lead, and thrive. By expanding our programs, planting churches, and developing local leaders, we aim to create a legacy of transformation that goes far beyond our initial mission. We are actively working toward opening more community centers in underserved regions and building new partnerships to extend our reach.
Join us in making a difference. Whether through prayer, volunteering, or financial support, your involvement helps us bring hope and transformation to the communities we serve.
Address:
PO Box 220719
El Paso, TX 79913
Email:
Onnemi@gmail.com
Copyright © 2024 Onnemi
