At Island Hope Orphanage Centre in Chukwani, Tanzania, children recently took part in a lesson called “I Am Special and Unique.” The goal was simple: to help them understand their value, recognize their strengths, and grow in confidence. The volunteers talked with the children about the different gifts people have, from sports and music to leadership, creativity, and helping others. They also encouraged them to make good choices, learn from mistakes, and keep trying even when something feels difficult.

A visit to Japu, Peru, does not always go exactly as planned. On one of our youth activity days, rapidly changing weather and snow meant lots of adjusting for our Allies team. Still, the children gathered for the activity “I Am God’s Creation,” where they talked about identity, worth, and the truth that our circumstances do not determine our value in God’s eyes.

One of our teens from Fort Worth Christian recently served with Allies by making bracelets for children in our programs. The experience inspired her to write the poem below and to start a bracelet club at her school, where students can continue making bracelets to donate to Allies.

For 15 years, faithful partners have helped turn one orphanage visit into a global mentoring network serving more than 27,000 children each month. See what your support is making possible and where Allies is headed next.