Children’s Hope invited coordinators from several countries to attend the CHI reunion in Chicago last month as well as visit families in the U.S. Their reunions with families and other staff members was so joyful that we just had to share them with you. We’ve also added some of their comments.

 

It was a wonderful trip, one that I have never experienced before! I was fortunate to learn about America, the people, weather, culture...especially to meet all the kids and the families who I have helped over the years. It was unbelievable to see how all the kids are changing and growing. Thank you to all the families who gave me this special chance to see all the kids again, and also thank you to everyone who did help me through my trip. I do really appreciate it, and hope to see everyone again soon!—Thuy Nguyen

 

 

Thuy, right, with one of our Vietnam families.

 

 

 

Helen (right) with CHI staff members at the reunion. Helen is here in the U.S. for two months of training. She will be in St. Louis until early October.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Peggy with the Owen family at the reception in St. Louis.

 

I have realized more than ever before how important our work is for the families and the kids in particular. Thanks to the detailed and patient preparation in St. Louis, we can make a satisfactory and memorable trip for the families! I now also have a clearer picture of what happens in the St. Louis office.

I’d like to indicate again my personal appreciation for inviting me and arranging such a wonderful trip. My gratitude for your kindness and hospitality is beyond what words can express.—Peggy Xia

 

Ludmila, our Russian representative from Moscow, visited regional offices in New York, Nashville, Chicago, and St. Louis, where she was able to meet with many families.

Of course, the big event was the Reunion in Chicago. As Ludmila described it: “They were all just very special people in the world – people with big and open hearts, people who were very proud of their children. It was a real holiday that could be called ‘Holiday of a Happy Family’.”

The picture shows Ludmila (left), with several families whose children were adopted from Russia.”