говорите по-англииский?

Do you speak English? That's among the first questions I ask when trying to communicate in Russia.

In Russia, we would be lost without our translators--many of whom speak multiple languages. Our feeble attempts at the Russian language are met with some level of enthusiasm, simply because Americans are not known for making much effort to communicate in other languages. It's fun to ask the kids "Что это?" "What is this?" and then try to repeat back to them what they said. There is usually a lot of giggling involved, and it gives our hardworking translators a break.

The translators and disciplers become some of the biggest role models for the children in the orphanages. They are well-spoken, well-educated young adults with good jobs. They help build connections between American friends and the kids. They are young enough to still be "cool" but old enough to share some wisdom. Most importantly, the disciplers are committed to the children and spend quality time hearing their stories and offering support. Misha, here, was called "Uncle Misha" by the end of our week at Sovietsk. We are grateful for our friends who have such a direct, positive impact on these young lives.

Last visit, when I asked the children what they wanted to be when they graduate, among the most common answers was "a translator." Of course, it makes perfect sense. What a wonderful goal. But, there are no English lessons at the orphanage.

So, we looked into it. We discovered that hiring English teachers for the next school year is a feasible option. Galina suggested 18 hours a week would cover lessons and extra tutoring for all 29 children, and that would only cost us $43 a week. To cover the whole school year, we would need about $1720.

It's no small number, but it really is doable. We've funded recreational activities, arts, tutors for necessities like math and grammar, and important enhancements like university preparation and driving. Imagine the opportunities that would come from English lessons--increased language skills in general, better prospects for university, maybe even a career working where most orphaned children can hardly dream of. Galina feels strongly that English lessons would help the children, and she said that there is a lot of motivation to study English, especially among the older children.

A few children from HopeChest programs have grown up to become translators and help children just like themselves. Not every child will, but one of our children might. Just imagine the possibilities for Lena, Katya, Sergey, Andrey, all of our boys and girls, if met with this opportunity.

SO, we have a new project going. We are attempting to collect $1720 in $43 increments before August 2009, so the funds can be used for the coming school year. Could you help us out? Donating is easy--click on the badge to the right. Or, could you please consider posting the badge on your blog, Facebook, etc? Just email me and I'll send you the code. Any suggestions about finding funds are welcome!

And Большое спасибо, big thanks, to all of you who care for the children of Sovietsk.