Jorge (Hong-Tsai) Chang, a dedicated Tzu Chi volunteer in Honduras, passed away peacefully from heart failure on February 3, 2025, at the age of 75. For nearly 30 years, Jorge's compassion and determination transformed the lives of many in Central America, planting seeds of love and hope in this impoverished region. 

In late October, Category 5 Hurricane Mitch swept across Central America, causing floods and landslides. Tzu Chi volunteers from Taiwan and the United States formed a disaster assessment team to care for affected areas in Honduras. | Photo: Ching-Kuei Hsieh | Honduras | 1998/11/11 

Originally from Taiwan, Jorge moved to Honduras as the leader of a Taiwan Power Company team in 1988. His journey with Tzu Chi began in 1998 when Hurricane Mitch struck Central America, causing widespread devastation. Tzu Chi volunteers from Taiwan and the United States arrived to provide disaster relief, distributing 60 containers of supplies. Jorge joined this effort, marking the start of his lifelong commitment to Tzu Chi. 

Jorge Chang smiled contentedly while carrying supplies to be distributed to flood victims. | Photo: Ting Fan | Honduras | 2011/11/12 

In 2011, Honduras faced severe flooding, and Hong-Tsai's exceptional organizational skills were on full display. Within ten days, he coordinated the distribution of supplies to 1,200 households, setting a record for precise aid delivery in Tzu Chi's disaster relief history. Understanding the importance of local volunteers, he actively recruited and trained them, ensuring the sustainability of Tzu Chi's mission in Honduras. 

LEFT: Jorge Chang (middle) and other volunteers visited the beneficiaries of Great Love Homes. RIGHT: A nearly completed Great Love House with a Tzu Chi logo on the exterior wall. | Photos provided by Jorge Chang | Honduras | 2013/01/08 

From 2012 to 2013, Jorge led a milestone project in Marcovia, constructing permanent homes for those in need. In two phases, he built 30 homes initially, followed by an additional 127 homes and upgraded sanitation facilities. Employing a "cash-for-work" approach, he provided both housing and job opportunities for local residents. During construction, he held regular study sessions on Master Cheng Yen's Jing Si Aphorisms, enriching the lives of the community both physically and spiritually. 

Jorge's influence extended beyond housing projects. He played a crucial role in establishing a community health clinic in Marcovia and facilitated the first large-scale medical outreach by the Tzu Chi International Medical Association (TIMA) in Honduras in 2015, serving over a thousand patients. His efforts culminated in the founding of the TIMA Honduras chapter in 2016, marking a new chapter in local healthcare services. 

"Do as much as you can, that is my wish," Jorge often said. His actions embodied the teachings of the Sutra of Infinite Meanings, striving to alleviate suffering through tangible deeds. 

Even after his passing, the seeds of Tzu Chi he planted continue to flourish in Honduras. By 2024, Tzu Chi had established numerous service points across the country, reaching communities in Rivera and Pimienta, and providing ongoing assistance to vulnerable families. 

Jorge Chang's legacy is a testament to the enduring impact of compassion and dedication. His tireless efforts have left an indelible mark on Honduras, transforming lives and inspiring countless local volunteers to carry on his mission of love and hope.