Upon opening Russia as an au pair recruitment country in 2001, we recognized a particular need halfway around the world that compelled us to initiate the first of our overseas Kids First Orphanage #63, located 10 miles outside Moscow center, is a place that 56 very special children call home. The children range in age from 4 to 17 years old, and have very little hope of being adopted. Despite the care they receive from the orphanage director and her staff, the future for the children at the orphanage is likely a tough one.
The Boston and overseas offices of Cultural Care Au Pair spearheaded several fundraising projects in support of Orphanage #63. The sale of our CD of international children's songs (performed by our very own Cultural Care au pairs), the Kids First International Cookbook and holiday cards (featuring pictures from the orphanages most talented artists) was a big success as were our international dessert festival and knitmania events. Our LCCs, host families and au pairs across the country contributed to Orphanage #63 through garage sales, holiday wrapping services, talent shows, bake sales and more.
On several outreach visits, Cultural Care staff and LCCs traveled to the orphanage to spend time with the children and to bring them sports equipment, arts and crafts supplies, a computer lab, sneakers, clothing, handmade scarves and valentines. In March 2007, we purchased the biggest item on their wish list-a bus-that will provide an easier and safer commute to and from school and allow them to embark on educational field trips. We'll continue to support their development by sponsoring a yearly cultural excursion.
The impact we've made on our friends at Orphanage #63 has inspired us to expand our Kids First program so we can help even more children around the world. We hope you are also inspired and decide to be a part of Kids First today.
- CD of international children's songs performed by our own talented Cultural Care Au Pairs! Learn more and have a listen.
- Kids First International Cookbook with recipes submitted by our au pairs, host families, LCCs and staff. Learn more and see sample recipes.
- Holiday notecards featuring original artwork by the children of Orphanage #63. Learn more and view card designs.
Your contribution to these projects will make an immeasurable impact on the lives of the children of Orphanage #63. Though a sea divides us, with your support of Kids First, we can continue bridging that divide and improving the lives of children in Russia and throughout the world.
