I was fortunate enough to run into this organization almost 10 years ago through hearing one women's experience with the group and I was hooked.  I ended up going on a trip to Romania with a few COCI volunteers/board members that altered my life. I had traveled all over the world and seen poverty in Mexico, Guatemala, Philippines, etc... but I had never felt in the pit of my stomach the pain that orphaned and mal nourished children feel. I felt that pain the first time I walked into a government run orphanage where there was a 40/1 ratio of children/adult care giver and felt mauled by the swarms of kids just starving for the warmth of a simple touch. That is a gut wrenching pain I hope to never feel again.

Next we visited one of the COCI projects and there was a joy there that I have yet to experience since (even with my own daughters). Romanian government entrusted the care of  the sickest children of the area to a partnership between Casa Speranta and COCI.  What got created was a home for 25 children with AIDS living in 5 family units. Each family unit had two 'Momma's' that took 12 hour shifts. COCI was able to bring in the basic AIDS medicine as well as a nutritious diet. Those helped, but that is not what created the joy in the eyes of these children. They were given a chance at life through the most basic of all human needs... love.

It is from the laughter and hugs from those children in Constanta, Romania that I feel compelled to be a citizen of the world and provide opportunity for all children to flourish. Whether it is through building schools and water wells in Mexico or sponsoring a cross- race soccer league in Palestine/Israel, I know that every little effort makes a difference. As an organization, we are up for raising $750,000 this year. Please help me make my goal of $5,000 through supporting my goal for health.

Donating through this website is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to support my fundraising efforts.

Many thanks for your support -- and don't forget to forward this to anyone who you think might want to donate too!  See also, www.cherishourchildren.org