Power of ONE: Together we can soar

Thirteen-year-old Rusty describes herself as a “simple girl with simple interests in life.”

However, she knows her opportunities as a sponsored child through Children International will expand her horizons exponentially.

Learn more about this book-lover and the impact CI is having on her life.

Q: What do you want people to know about you?

I’m presently a Grade 7 student in the Bicol region of the Philippines. I love to read books. I love to write poems. I’m also in the honor circle of our class. When I’m at home, I love to spend quality time with my younger siblings by playing badminton. I also help my aunt and mom do some household chores like washing the dishes. I also enjoy bowling. It’s always a fun time with my friends when we crack jokes about almost anything, like funny shows we watch on television.

Q: How did you get involved with CI?

Volunteer parents were doing field visits [when I was 5], and I was lucky to be given the opportunity to be part of the sponsorship program. I feel happy being involved with CI, because I get to receive benefits from my sponsor and I can participate in some of the activities, like Youth Council and Youth Health Corps sessions.

Q: What has been your favorite CI experience?

Writing letters to my sponsor! I love to write about my happy experiences in school, as well as the great opportunities that I’m getting because of CI.

I feel happy to share that I’m always on the honor roll; I want my sponsor to be proud of me because I’m doing well in school.

Q: In what surprising way has being involved with CI changed your life?

I’ve learned to value every single moment and value every single benefit I’m receiving because I know I will graduate from the program when I turn 19. While in the sponsorship program, I try my best to develop my potential and enhance skills that can help me become a successful individual in the future.

Q: Who has had a big impact on your life?

My aunt, Clarissa, is the one I look up to so much because she has always been there to support me and give me advice. She is the one who constantly encourages me to do well in school and be involved in community activities. She helps our family with our basic needs, even though she has her own family to feed. She takes care of my school needs and assists me in doing my schoolwork.

Q: What does the phrase “unleashing the power of (every)ONE” mean to you?

It means that everyone has the potential to contribute to the betterment of our society, as long as we are all willing to help one another even in the simplest ways we can. It is in affirming the potential of everyone that inspires each one to soar higher in life.

Like Rusty, your sponsored kid loves to hear encouraging words from you. Head to your online account to write now. Not sure what to say? Permission granted to copy this short note!