"The CRC has impacted my life in many ways,
but especially to make me to become somebody."
Promise Scholar Amara Foday
CRC Promise Scholar plans his future, "I can contribute in nation building"

As a young boy, Amara Foday enrolled in the Child Rescue Centre's Child Support Program, but dropped out of school at the end of Junior Secondary when he failed to pass the difficult BECE national exam for promotion to Senior Secondary. 

It's not an unusual occurrence for kids who come from backgrounds of extreme poverty in Sierra Leone, as they may be too disadvantaged to succeed academically by the time they start school, hampered by a host of problems associated with poverty, like early malnutrition, chronic illness, itinerancy, or family dysfunction.

In spite of these obstacles, Amara persevered in his desire to learn a marketable skill. He stayed connected to the CRC and applied to the CRC for a Promise Scholarship to attend vo tech school.
"My career plans are to own a private welding workshop to employ and train youths," Amara says.
The CRC was pleased to offer Amara a scholarship to pursue vocational training at Sierra Leone Opportunities Industrialization Centre. Amara used his scholarship to become a welding technician, a highly sought after skill in Sierra Leone as construction keeps pace with the population increase. 
Karen with baby Mohamed and his mother
 Missioner saves child's life with blood donation

17 month old Mohamed, admitted to Mercy Hospital with severe anemia caused by malaria, would die if he didn't receive a blood transfusion. His O negative blood type is extremely rare, and none of his family members could donate. 

​Nurse Karen Hall, who was serving with the July UMVIM team, shares his blood type and gladly volunteered to donate. The family was so grateful to Karen, who truly saved their son's life. Click on the link below to read Karen's story.
Missioner Darlene Armendariz (top center) enjoyed a bike ride with some of the students.
 July UMVIM team helps with CRC's Social Day
The July team had a special treat when they got to help with a "Social Day" at the CRC. Students from the Child Rescue Centre, Jonathon’s Child Care, and SOS Children’s Village were invited to an afternoon of fun and fellowship at the CRC compound. 

Children were organized into “houses” identified by color (blue, white, purple and yellow), and the members of the July UMVIM team helped the CRC staff provide supervision and do several fun activities for the kids. 
Register today for the 2018 HCW Golf Tournament!
Don't miss your chance to join us Monday, September 10th at the beautiful 1757 Golf Club in Dulles for an inspiring day of golf and fellowship to benefit the Child Rescue Centre and Mercy Hospital!

Click here to download the tournament sponsorship registration form or click on the link at right to register online.
Interested in volunteering at the golf tournament?
We could use your help! Contact support@helpingchildrenworldwide.org
HCW Annual Bo-Tie Gala and Silent Art Auction
Friday, October 19, 2018 at 6:30 PM
The National Press Club in Washington, DC

This year's gala, with the theme "Be the Light," will be held at the world-famous National Press Club in downtown Washington, DC on Friday, October 19, 2018 at 6:30 PM.

You won't want to miss this elegant event, and the opportunity to join friends and supporters to celebrate our shared mission to transform lives in Sierra Leone. The evening will feature a special guest speaker and performance by KanKouran West African Dance Troupe.

Tables and individual tickets are available for purchase now. Make your reservation today!
KanKouran West African Dance Troupe will perform at the Bo-Tie Gala, see video below:
2019 Mission Trips are open- apply today!
Join us in service at the Child Rescue Centre and Mercy Hospital in Sierra Leone in 2019. Projects may include medical work, staff training, and light construction. However, anyone with a heart for service is welcome to apply.

Cost: $3000 in fundraising for HCW
Age/Skill Level: Adults 18 and over only
Requirements: Passports and immunizations required.

All interest meetings will be held at 10 am on the date indicated at the HCW office in Chantilly, VA. Teleconference is available for those unable to attend in person.

Learn more about HCW mission trips or apply for a team by clicking on the link below.
Photo credit: Tina De Boeser
2019 UMVIM TRIP SCHEDULE

Travel Date: April 27 - May 11, 2019
Interest Meeting: Oct 13, 2018
Application Deadline: Oct 21, 2018

Travel Date: July 13 - July 27, 2019
Interest Meeting: Jan 26, 2019
Application Deadline: Jan 31, 2019

Travel Dates: Oct 19 - Nov 2, 2019
Interest Meeting: Apr 27, 2019
Application Deadline: Apr 30, 2019

Sponsor Vision Team: dates to be decided! Stay tuned.
Photo credit: Tina De Boeser
The courage to care

O God, our Creator and Counselor, help us to be your church, to listen and learn as we walk with you.

We pray for the courage to care.
Show us how to connect with our global neighbors, to understand their needs.

In our desire to get things right,
help us to recognize the need to be sensitive. Help us to see clearly your purpose.

Through the leading of your Spirit, may we enter into relationships of love, relationships that offer joy and encouragement and refresh the hearts of your people.

We ask that partnerships between churches deepen our understanding of every good thing you desire.
Instill within us an appreciation
for the diversity and divinity of community.

We intercede for the local congregations all over the world
who seek to transform and strengthen their communities.

May they reflect your goodness as they love their neighbors, offer opportunity and possibility to individuals, provide hope and home to children, and support those seeking to thrive as family.

We pray the followers of Christ will work together in harmony to reveal your kingdom here on earth.

For the sake of the children, may your will be done. Amen.