As an organization, our mission is simple: We aim to help the people of Honduras in any way we can with love, compassion, and humility. In the past, we have done this by completing small projects to benefit whole communities, contributing to education expenses, leading mission teams from the United States, and forming genuine and lasting connections and friendships with the people of Roatán. Presently, our focus is improving healthcare conditions, principally through funding a new public hospital on the island of Roatan.
Mission Roatán is an IRS recognized 501(c)3 organization (May 6, 2006 and March 22, 2012). Mission Roatán is incorporated in the State of Illinois (February 16, 2006).
Peggy Stranges, R.N., President
Peggy Stranges relocated to Roatán in 2001 and began treating patients in her kitchen. Eventually, she founded Clínica Esperanza, which grew into a 4500 sq. ft. clinic. Clínica Esperanza has become the primary medical provider for hundreds of island families and tourists. Peggy recently retired as the clinic's director.
Shala Chepenik, Treasurer
Shala Chepenik is a native Islander who has lived in Florida for many years. She is a nurse and has been a great supporter of promoting healthcare and sports in the schools on the island.
Dr. Courtney Fister, D.O., Secretary
Dr. Courtney Fister lives in the Chicago suburbs and works as an emergency medicine physician. In her last year of residency, she did a rotation with Clínica Esperanza and returned many times over the following years. She is fluent in Spanish and has a heart for the people of Honduras.
Dr. Raymond Cherington
Dr. Raymond Cherington is a medical doctor from Coxen Hole, Roatán. He worked with Clínica Esperanza for ten years before deciding to go into politics to improve healthcare and sports in the schools. Both are his passions.
Joey Gruner
Joey was director of Mission Roatán from 2006-2024. He and his family lived on Roatán from 2001-2003.
Alysha Gil
Alysha lived on Roatán as a child from 2001-2003 and returned many times over the years, including as a teacher from 2013-2014.