Colombia has not known peace for decades.

As many as 14,000 children fight in a deadly, cocaine-fueled conflict. Most of them come from rural areas, where poverty is a way of life, education is limited and opportunities are few.

Hundreds of youth are rescued or turn themselves in each year. But it’s too risky to return home.

Mercy Corps is helping them START OVER.

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If guerrillas fall into government hands before they turn 18, they are given a second chance ▸

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A day in the lives of teenage ex-combatants now living in a transitional home, learning how to be armed for a new life ▸

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Adriana was just 12 years old when she joined an illegal armed group. Ten years later, she’s helping fellow soliders back from battle ▸