Ukraine Orphan Outreach (UOO)

http://www.ukraineorphans.org/ 

Ukraine Orphan Outreach (UOO) brings older orphans, typically ages 6-14, to the USA once a year for a three-week, “Cultural Exchange Camp” during the summer. 2011 camp will be the 5th annual camp. Consider these stats:

• There are over 100,000 orphans in Ukraine
• There are over 100,000 more on the street because the orphanages are full
• 10% of orphans commit suicide after leaving the orphanage before their 18th birthday
• 60% of the girls end up in prostitution
• 70% of the boys end up in crime

But God has other plans… UOO camps accomplish two goals:

• To bring hope to Ukrainian orphans – This camp opens up their eyes to the world beyond their orphanage, they learn about our culture, and they live in loving Christian families. Orphanage directors have told us the children set higher personal goals for their lives once they return from our camp, and often become believers.
• To create community awareness to the plight of the orphan – The camp breaks down barriers that people create about orphans. Volunteers from many different churches come together to help care for the children during camp and show them the love of Jesus.

When the orphans go back home, we remain in touch with them by various volunteers visiting the orphanages, bringing humanitarian aide, pen pal relationships sending letters of encouragement, care packages, monthly sponsorships and special project needs. While finding "forever families" for the children is not the primary goal, many of the children have been adopted by families who volunteer to help. www.destinynetwork.com