From Letters to Lifelong Memories: One Sponsor's Journey with Children International

Children International supporter Chris Aragon (left, in white shirt) visited the youth he sponsors in the Philippines in 2025.

United States veteran Christopher Aragon sought to help children in need when he became a Children International sponsor nearly 10 years ago. Little did he know that his consistent commitment would grow into a personal connection that would eventually take him across the globe.

Chris, a retired U.S. Marine with more than 30 years of service, came across Children International in 2017, while browsing online. He learned that the global nonprofit works with children and youth in 10 countries to break the cycle of generational poverty and began reading the stories of young people enrolled in the program.

“It grabbed my heart right away,” Chris said. “I thought, this is something I can do to help someone across the world who doesn’t even know who I am.”

What began as a monthly commitment to one child in the Philippines quickly became a meaningful relationship with two youths. Over the years, Chris exchanged letters and updates with the children he supported, following their progress and celebrating milestones along the way. Riona, the first child he sponsored, remained in the program for about seven years before graduating. Today, he sponsors another child located in the Philippines – 13-year-old Cyrille, who hopes to one day become an architect.

Though the children lived thousands of miles away from his home on the West Coast, the regular exchange of letters and photos helped build a genuine connection.

“You start with letters and pictures,” he said. “Over time, the relationship becomes bigger than you would ever imagine.”

That connection became even more real in 2025 when Chris traveled to the Philippines and had the opportunity to meet Riona and Cyrille and their families.

“It’s one of those core memories you will never forget,” he said. Chris shared meals with the families and enjoyed getting to know more about Riona and Cyrille, as he shared more about himself. In one memorable outing, the group spent time singing karaoke — a popular pastime in the Philippines.

For Chris, the visit reinforced the deeper purpose of sponsorship. It wasn’t just about providing financial support; it also was about investing in a young person’s future and witnessing the impact of his commitment on the people supporting that young person.

“It’s not just helping one child,” he said. “Children International helps the entire family break the cycle of poverty.”

During his visit, Chris also met Children International staff members — including some of whom once participated in the sponsorship program. Connecting with thriving graduates left him even more impressed with the organization’s mission.

Children International supporter Chris Aragon (rear left, navy shirt) also visited with Children International Philippines staff and met several team members who were graduates of the sponsorship progam.