Jack was one of the first volunteers who came from Germany to help Russian children and ended up staying with them. Here, he met his future wife, and they are now raising their three children together. Jack leads an organization that includes not only a social shelter but also foster families.
These children used to live in groups in the shelter, but we set a goal for them to be in a family. And we achieved this goal! We searched for these families, and today they live on our territory.
“The Children’s Ark” attracts all kinds people like a magnet. Almost 8 years ago, the Baldis, Kostya and Sveta, joined our team. They are an incredibly active and creative couple – a real find for us! At first, they picked up the “Youth-Teen Club “EXIT” project. And 4 years ago, they opened a children’s club.
Children aged between 7 to 10 come to the meetings. The idea is for children to see their talents and learn how to develop them. In an informal setting, they play, sing, learn to hold discussions, participate in musical performances, and simply have fun.
Two boys immediately showed themselves to be active helpers in the club. Vitya Kurmaev and Artem Kaplenko enthusiastically took an interest in the sound and lighting equipment. They began to master musical instruments and participate in a music group, where they sang songs with other children.
The boys grew older, and their responsibility and interest grew with them. Artem organized a similar preschool club for the youngest children in our shelter several times. Vitya often suggested different ideas to diversify and make the club’s program more interesting.
Last season, the boys actively prepared topics for the club and confidently taught biblical truths to their peers. And this year, these two boys became leaders in the children’s club! Now they also continue to fulfill their responsibilities and lead the children who come to the club. They help them gain confidence, develop their talents, and learn to make friends. And how pleasant it is for us to see these fruits! Tears of joy fill our hearts, seeing how our children grow not only in years. What was sown in their hearts now bears fruit.
Dear friend, we would be very happy if you join us! There are different ways: become a volunteer, help financially, pray, support with kind words. Together, we can help a large number of children! Do not close your heart!
Ministry in Childrens Ark