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.

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

In Antananarivo, Madagascar, one of the most meaningful moments during a recent activity began with a child sitting quietly by himself. While the other children played and talked, he stayed on the sidelines, shy and unsure. A volunteer named Rova noticed him and invited him to join a simple card game.

In Peru, children gathered for activities designed to help them grow in confidence, discover their abilities, and believe in their future. Through mentoring, encouragement, and shared learning, the children were reminded that growth happens one small step at a time. One volunteer shared that one of her greatest goals is to walk alongside children as they discover their talents, build self-confidence, and grow in an environment filled with care, respect, and learning. For her, mentoring is not simply about teaching, but about helping children believe they are capable of more than they imagined.

In Mwanga, Tanzania, seven-year-old Rose begins each day earlier than most children her age. Before the sun rises high, she helps fetch water, cares for her younger siblings, and supports her mother with responsibilities at home. Like many children in her community, her days are shaped by duties that leave little room for rest or play.

During a recent lesson with children in Karakol, Kyrgyzstan, volunteers spent time helping them understand their emotions and how to express what they feel in healthy ways. One volunteer noticed how naturally her teammate connected with the children. While materials were being prepared, she gathered them into a circle and began speaking with them in a way that was simple and engaging. Even the most restless children became quiet and attentive. When some hesitated to begin the drawing activity, she found gentle words to help them participate. It was a reminder of how important it is for children to feel safe as they learn and share.

In Murmansk, Russia, a recent gathering gave teenagers a unique opportunity to explore their inner worlds. As part of a series on discovering different professions, a local psychologist visited the group to share what her work truly involves. She explained that psychology is not just about having conversations but about helping people navigate difficult situations and build healthy relationships with themselves and others. The session quickly transformed into an interactive art therapy workshop where the children learned to identify and name their emotions. They talked openly about feeling anxious, struggling, or experiencing moments of calm and joy.

Every summer, orphaned and vulnerable children step away from the weight they carry and into something different.

For children and leaders across the Allies network, our Christian Summer Camps are one of the most anticipated parts of the year. More than just a fun trip, these camps are joy-filled, intentional, and often life-changing experiences. While each camp is unique, with some lasting a few days at a local church and others a full week at a retreat center, they are all united by a common purpose: to show every child they are seen, loved, and valued.