In Dripping Springs, a quiet but transformative effort is underway. Alongside his wife and family, Dripping native David Sahl and his team of friends founded the nonprofit organization 18ten (referencing Matthew 18:10) in 2014, which works tirelessly to bring sustainable change to communities in Nicaragua, Guatemala, and beyond. What began as a simple trip with a burden to help children in Central America has evolved into a mission to help communities thrive through a hand up, not just a handout. “We’re just regular people who saw a need and decided to do something about it,” Sahl says.
When Helping Hurts
Sahl’s first visit to Central America wasn’t part of a grand plan. Driven by his love for Jesus, the trip started with a desire to explore and connect with people. He was struck by the warmth and generosity of the locals, particularly one woman living in poverty. “Living on a dirt floor with a tin roof slapped together, she gave us fruit—literally from nothing she still wanted to give,” Sahl recalls. He realized while people in poverty have great needs, they also possess a rich culture and resilience.
“When we first started, we learned that not all help is truly helpful,” Sahl explains. Along with what he and his team members witnessed on the ground, the book When Helping Hurts transformed their perspective. “Sometimes well-meaning efforts, like short-term mission trips, can unintentionally harm communities.” 18ten adopted a thoughtful approach, investing in long-term partnerships and ensuring local pastors, churches, and leaders in Central America are in the driver’s seat, deciding what their communities need most.
18ten created a successful model of after-school programs, trade schools, and tutoring programs. Children weren’t focusing at school because they hadn’t eaten; by providing a full, nutritious meal each day, families began growing educationally, physically, and spiritually by leaps and bounds.
In 2019, 18ten funded and launched Oasis de la Gracia Christian Academy in Nicaragua. Scaling its efforts on seven acres, this school provides high-quality education for the children of low-income Nicaraguan families and equips Nicaraguans to impact their country for Christ. These projects equip children and teens with skills that will serve them throughout their lives. Locals are employed to be the staff, teachers, and director of the school.
How You Can Help
As 18ten grows, so does the need for financial support. “We’re primarily a fundraising organization,” Sahl explains. “Our main goal is to raise money to support the incredible work that churches and community leaders are doing.”
One of its biggest fundraising efforts is an annual run held in Wimberley. This year’s event is set for December 7, with First Baptist Church sponsoring the run along the scenic Wimberley trails. “It’s a great way for the community to support us while having fun and staying active,” says Sahl. The event has become a cornerstone of 18ten’s fundraising efforts, bringing Central Texans together for a good cause.
Beyond raising funds, 18ten educates supporters about the importance of thoughtful giving. “It’s easy to throw money at a problem,” Sahl says, “but it’s harder to invest in a way that creates real change. We want our donors to know exactly where their money is going and how it’s making a difference.”
The organization’s mission is simple: to empower communities to build better futures for themselves. “It’s not just about charity,” Sahl says. “It’s about giving people the tools and support they need to thrive on their own. What keeps us going is the people we’ve met along the way. When you see the struggles they face and realize we have the resources to help, you can’t turn away.”
“We need people—whether through donations, participation in events, or simply spreading the word,” he says. “Every little bit helps.”
Take Action:
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Visit 18ten.org to meet the team, donate, and provide scholarships for families in need in Central America.
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Follow @18tenorg on Instagram and Facebook.
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Go to 18ten.org to register for Run for the Kids (10k, 5k, and 1k run options available) at 9 a.m. on Saturday, December 7 at First Baptist Church Wimberley.
It’s about giving people the tools and support they need to thrive on their own.