Self(ie) Evidence: Testimonials from around the world

“One way to end poverty is when students — just like me — learn the value of education, because this is the key toward achieving our dreams. I study to make my parents proud, and because I want to become a teacher.”

— Jinky (10), CI kid, Philippines

“There are many children in the streets that need support.”

— Juan (11), CI kid, Colombia

“Several things drive me to volunteer, but most important is seeing children in poverty grow into young men and women and making a success of themselves as they graduate from the program.”

— Ashraf, CI volunteer, India

“Working to eradicate poverty means what is being done here should be done everywhere … Have I witnessed positive change? Yes!”

— Juana, CI volunteer, Dominican Republic

“Here, they help us in everything … [in the future], I would like to have my own foundation to benefit children.”

— Valery (11), CI kid, Colombia

“There’s always a student or parent who reminds us of how appreciative they are for our help and services. That gratitude and thanks is overwhelming! It makes for some of the most fulfilling moments of my life.”

— Andrew, CI staff, United States

“Helping others makes me feel happy, because gratitude is instant but also lasting.”

— Candy, CI librarian, Colombia

“For me, Children International is more than an institution. It is a family that helps children. Most things I learned in life, I learned at CI.”

— Juan Daniel, (21) CI grad and volunteer, Dominican Republic

“Having fun is better when we learn, and learning is better when it is fun.”

— Mark (7), CI kid, Philippines

“Helping others is sharing what we know, giving opportunities to others and doing our best to help them overcome difficulties and move forward.”

— Oscar, CI staff, Ecuador

“Some kids don’t have opportunities if there’s not somebody working behind the scenes to put it together. That’s where I come in! Their enjoyment ... their smiles ... their thanks ... that’s my reward!”

— Jasmine, CI volunteer, United States

“Being able to express yourself is empowering. But being empowered also means being more responsible in everything we do and say.”

— Rodelyn (15), CI kid, Philippines