Supporter Voices

My name is Alli Harvey, and I began sponsoring Abril* from NPH Nicaragua last summer when our youth group took a trip to the NPH house there. I was a little unsure what it would be like with the language barrier and never having sponsored someone before, but meeting Abril for the first time took all my nerves away. She was fun, sassy, and always tried to include me in games and activities. I could rely on her to help me out as I stumbled through Spanish conversations, point me to where I needed to go, or blow bubbles with me during free time. Mostly, Abril taught me about love and generosity. She was always thinking of me and willing to share everything she had. She taught me the joy in sharing whatever I have, whether big or little, to help others. At the end of the trip, I was able to leave with her some of my items (sheets, my pillow…) and I was grateful to know that I could help her in even that small way. We’re still able to write back and forth, and I hope to go back to NPH Nicaragua to visit again soon! “You may only be one person in the world, but you may be the world to one child.” – Padre Wasson 

---

My name is Lillie Romeiser, and I had the opportunity to travel to NPH Nicaragua last summer, where I met my Godchild, Oliverio*.  Between my butchered Spanish and Oliverio's only recent attempts to learn English in school, communicating was not exactly easy. Nevertheless, we made a quick bond, augmented by our mutual love for soccer (or should I say futbol!), for playing games, and for the Lord. I never will forget the way he smiled up when I showed him my glow-in-the-dark Frisbee - the luxuries of America! Although I was his older Godparent, he took care of me during my week in Nicaragua, always making me feel welcome at his home, ensuring that I ate well and enjoyed the food, and never being afraid to share his affectionate hugs. Oliverio and I have very different backgrounds, yet at the end of the day, none of those differences matter. What matters is that we care for each other, we give to each other, and we grow together in love, even with 3,000 miles between us. I am grateful to be able to continue supporting Oliverio through a small gift each month. After all, I receive from him so much more than I give, through his example for my life and, most importantly, his friendship. I might have given him a glow-in-the-dark Frisbee, but he has lit up my life in a way that is hard to find here in America - no batteries required.

---

Hi, my name is Luke and I am 15 years old. I have visited the NPH home in Mexico twice and the NPH Guatemala home once. On my most recent trip to Mexico with my school I encountered a heartwarming smile. It turned out that Erline* was the five-year-old girl welcoming me to her home. Later during my trip I met Erline in the Kinder area and our bond grew from there. After numerous piggyback rides and hours of swing pushing I knew that I wanted to become more acquainted with Erline. I wanted to sponsor Erline. I wanted to watch this little girl grow up and do the things she loves. Without sponsoring, I wouldn’t have this special opportunity to remain in her life. I feel more involved with the home in Mexico now that I personally sponsor Erline. I plan to visit the home again this summer to be at the High School graduation ceremony, and I will again be able to spend time with Erline. I’m so glad that I now have the ability to support Erline, and I wouldn’t give our friendship up for the world.

*Aliases are used for all children's names to protect their privacy.

---