Sometimes the biggest changes happen one small step at a time.

At a recent mentoring gathering in Ukraine, children came together to learn, build friendships, and grow in their faith. Through conversations and activities, they were reminded that God continues to guide them as they make choices and grow into the people He created them to be.

For 17-year-old Veronica, it was her first time volunteering. She arrived feeling nervous, unsure if the children would listen to her. Instead, she was welcomed by a group that was eager to participate and learn. Their enthusiasm gave her confidence and confirmed that she wanted to continue serving.

One of the children who stood out to Veronica was 13-year-old Lesya. Growing up without her father has brought challenges, but over time Veronica has watched her grow. Lesya has always been friendly and open, but she is becoming more thoughtful toward others and more confident in herself. She now attends youth meetings on her own, not because her friends are going, but because she wants to be there.

During one camp, Lesya trusted her mentors enough to admit that she had made a mistake. She shared that she had brought cigarettes with her but later chose to give them away. As she talked about what had happened, she became emotional and expressed genuine regret. It was a moment of honesty that showed her desire to make better choices.

Seeing that kind of growth has encouraged Veronica as much as it has Lesya. What began as a first volunteer experience has become a reminder that caring relationships can make a lasting difference in a young person's life.

Thank you for making moments like these possible. Through your support, children and teenagers in Ukraine have mentors who encourage them, listen to them, and walk beside them as they grow in faith, confidence, and hope.