Welcome Carlos Malavé!
Carlos resides in Louisville, Kentucky with his wife Aixa. They have three grown children: Yaisca, Yshua and Giancarlos. Last year he joyfully welcomed his first grandchild, Eleanor, into the world. Carlos grew up in Puerto Rico and has lived in the states for the last 33 years. He is a pastor, and has served congregations in both Puerto Rico and Southern California. Most recently, Carlos served as Executive Director of Christian Churches Together in the USA (CCT). CCT is an ecumenical table inclusive of all the major Christian traditions in our country. He previously served for 10 years as Associate for Ecumenical Relations at the Office of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (USA). He has been involved with several boards including Bread for the World, Circle of Protection, CreatureKind and Luke 10.
Carlos will be working with Growing Projects in Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky as well as Overseas Programs in Latin America.
What drew you to Growing Hope Globally?
Through the years, I have changed my perspective regarding our capacity to address hunger in the world effectively. I know that there is a lot of disbelief or cynicism about how realistic it is to think that we can eradicate hunger and poverty. I believe that we can make a difference in the lives of poor people and communities. The efforts of NGOs and government agencies for the last 30 years have proven that we can effectively address hunger. Growing Hope Globally provides an opportunity for average Americans to do their part in the fight against hunger and poverty. The way to effect change is by consistently adding more people to this effort. Together we can make a difference.
What are you most excited about as you start your new role?
I’m excited about getting on the road and meeting people who are contributing. As a preacher, I get excited about using the power of faith and encouragement to move people to action. Most of us tend to think less of our ability to be agents of change. I look forward to challenging, in a positive way, the folks that I will meet.
What past experiences have you had that have prepared you for your work at Growing Hope Globally?
I come from a small town in Puerto Rico. I have seen first hand, since my childhood, the challenges of people of modest means. During many years of local pastorates, I have listened to the stories of the struggles and challenges of my parishioners, the majority of them coming from Latin America. I have visited their places of origin in Central America and Mexico. Through my social justice involvement, I have grown in my understanding of the economic disparities throughout the world, including our own country. Advocating for the “least of these” has been the most rewarding ministry I have done for the last fifteen years.
The other gift that I bring to this ministry is my experience and ability to relate to people right where they are. Differences of perspectives, be it political, social, or cultural, never discourage me from engaging others respectfully. I’m always willing to question my perspective and to challenge others.
What else might the Growing Hope Globally family want to know about you?
Life is beautiful, and I’m in love with the God who imagined and created our world and the universe. It is an underserved privilege to be alive and to be aware of God’s reality and presence in my life and the life of every person. I believe God desires every person to live life to the fullest (John 10:10). God is in the business of transforming all human systems that deprive His children of living life to the fullest. To partner with God in bringing about His kingdom on earth is my highest calling in life.