Vladimir
Masha was a graduate from Luhktanova orphanage. As a young girl she had crossed eyes and through the generous gifts of many here in the US her eyes have been corrected. After leaving the orphanage she went to cooking school and for any of you that have been fortunate enough to try her wares, she learned her job well. She is now Andrei’s assistant at the Vladimir Dacha Program and she also teaches cooking classes at the Vladimir Ministry Center. Recently Masha wrote us all a letter of gratitude:
” Thank you for believing in me and loving me. I’m really glad to be a member of Orphan’s Tree team. Honestly, I never thought I would be, so this was unexpected for me. Thank you for giving me such an opportunity. I finally found a job that I like with a good group of people who are friends that I respect.
I know that this project helps kids to live independently, and they will realize that they shouldn’t just live for themselves, waiting for someone to help them, but for other people and other kids who need help and understanding.
I see how kids like this project, and for that reason, they travel to the dacha. The kids enjoy all the interesting things there are to do in the village that’s not available in the city (going to the forest, gathering mushrooms and berries, working in the garden, pure water, cross-country skiing, and fresh air). That’s a big advantage for the village and all of us.
I really love kids, respect them, and try to help them so that they would be comfortable in the village and in life in general. The kids also respect me and know that I would never hurt them. The kids sometimes ask for advice, and I try to give the advice they need.
I lead cooking classes at Vladimir Ministry Center. The kids like how I cook, and they themselves enjoy cooking as well. They are already used to the fact that we have these classes on a regular basis, and they are glad I came up with the idea. When I’m not there, they ask the staff or call me to find out when the next class will be and what we’ll be making. I enjoy the fact that the kids like to learn about cooking, and it’s my desire to continue teaching them. I will attempt to do what I can so that we will walk together along the right path with confidence and love. Then there will be success.”
Fourteen Russian guests from ExxonMobil Russia visited our Vladimir Dacha in June, where they worked together with eleven older orphans. The cool weather was perfect for working outside: the team extended the fence by 100 feet, laid the foundation for a gazebo, picked weeds around potatoes and berry bushes. Such a “Day of Care” has become a tradition but this is the first time it took place at the Dacha. Working together, cooking and sharing a meal, and visiting with each other by the camp fire helped strengthen friendships. The team brought a camera crew and interviewed some of the kids. The guests also brought gifts, including buckets, watering cans, tools, dishes, and construction materials – all very important.
Says Andrei – the kids presented the quests with souvenirs they had made themselves. It was hard to leave and many guests shared that they wanted to come back. Every visit makes orphans feel less alone.
When can they expect you?
Kostroma
Renovation of the Kostroma dacha has been in full swing all summer. The dilapidated storage shed on the backside of the structure has been removed and the kitchen has been totally redone and is now very useful. Of course, gardening continues and we are looking forward to a grand harvest.
There have been several groups from the US that have stopped by for a visit to see what is happening and lend a hand for a day or two. Our ‘young families’ are enjoying weekends in the country on a regular basis as are other older orphans. We held a barbecue for the neighbors to build repartee and understanding throughout the community. It was very well attended and appreciated by all.
