Protecting childhood in Colombia: our collaboration with Fundación Tiempo de Paz
In Medellín, Colombia, where displacement, poverty and violence place children at constant risk, Fundación Tiempo de Paz works to protect early childhood.
Founded in 2010, the organization emerged from a powerful insight. While supporting initiatives for people living on the streets, its founders discovered that many adults traced their vulnerability back to childhood experiences of abuse, neglect and hunger. The conclusion was clear: to change the future, protection must begin early.
A mission focused on prevention and dignity
Fundación Tiempo de Paz is a non-profit organization supporting displaced and highly vulnerable communities, with a strong focus on children aged 5 to 12. Its mission is to prevent nutritional, psychological and social risks, especially child sexual abuse, by creating safe environments where children can grow, learn and feel protected.
Through daily meals, educational support, psychological care and recreational activities, the Foundation promotes holistic development guided by empathy, human dignity, transparency and respect for children’s rights.
Challenges facing vulnerable children in Medellín
Nearly 60% of the children supported are raised by single mothers working long hours in informal jobs. The prolonged absence of caregivers exposes children to loneliness, domestic violence, mental health issues and unsafe environments.
In some areas, uncontrolled tourism has intensified additional risks, normalizing narratives around drugs and prostitution as quick sources of income and increasing the threat of child exploitation.
Measurable impact and long-term commitment
One of Fundación Tiempo de Paz’ most important achievements is the creation of its own Child Sexual Abuse Prevention Pathway (PASI). This model has directly impacted 90 children and positioned the Foundation as a local reference for prevention.
Over 15 years, the organization has:
- Established two permanent centers in San Javier and Boston
- Strengthened partnerships with public and educational institutions
- Implemented public social accountability practices to ensure transparency and trust
Innovation through play: A roblox-based prevention tool
As one of the winners of Konecta Foundation’s Community Impact Call 2024, Fundación Tiempo de Paz is pioneering a new approach to child sexual abuse prevention in Colombia. Through this recognition and support, the entity, together with Konecta Foundation, developed an innovative educational Roblox game designed to address sensitive topics such as personal boundaries, risk awareness and protection routes using a language children naturally understand.
This digital tool removes territorial barriers, significantly expands reach and transforms prevention into an engaging and accessible experience. The game will soon be fully integrated into the Foundation’s workshops with children, families and schools, further strengthening its preventive and educational impact.
Laura’s story: A childhood reclaimed
Laura, 10 years old, lives in the San Javier community. Raised by a hardworking single mother, she often spent long hours alone. At Fundación Tiempo de Paz, Laura found safety, care and a space to grow freely.
Today she is confident, creative and hopeful about her future. Her journey reflects the Foundation’s true impact: protecting childhood before it is lost.
Building safer futures together
Fundación Tiempo de Paz shows that effective child sexual abuse prevention in Colombia requires empathy, innovation and long-term commitment. With partners like Konecta Foundation, the organization continues to protect children today so they can shape a safer tomorrow.
