Many of you already know about Team Sim. We've been partnering with YouthReach International (www.youthreach.org) and ministering to orphaned children in Ukraine, specifically Simferopol, since 2008. Some of us served in summer camps in the Kherson region in 2006 and 2007. This year marks the 5th year in which I've participated or led orphan outreach teams in Ukraine. I've been blessed in so many amazing ways by working alongside some of the most wonderful and inspiring people I've ever known.
Each year, God lays this effort on the hearts of individuals who join the team. We partner with local Ukrainian Christians we call 12-3-1 Mentors. These amazing teams sacrifice their time and resources to spend 10-15 days in orphan facilities, teaching, sharing, playing, and showing the love of Christ to children who ache for relationship. It takes about 6 months for the Americans on the team to come together, to train, raise funds, and to prepare. Our 12-3-1 mentors are spending lots of effort as well. They are attending mentor retreats in preparation.
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We believe the most significant need that orphans in Ukraine and Russia have is for positive, on-going relationships with adult mentors that start while the children are still in the orphanage and continue with them through graduation from the orphanage and on into young adulthood. Therefore, our orphan programs are carefully designed to meet that need. Read more about the YouthReach program.
I'll be sharing more about our trips soon. In the meantime visit the YouthReach Website to learn more.
Most importantly keep us in your prayers.
Most importantly keep us in your prayers.
Our next team trip is scheduled for December 2011. My wife Linda and I will be leading a team to Simferopol. If you are interested in joining or supporting the team or the efforts of the organization, contact YouthReach International at:
