Thanks for Helping Provide the “Finishing Touch”
written by Kent Greve
I received the following text message from Anne-Marie recently. “With this presentation that I had today, University is officially over. I am so overwhelmed and grateful at the same time! Thank you so much for everything!”
Though I received the message, I realize that her gratitude for everything is rightfully sent to you, her ICC family.
My wife, Jan, and I went to Romania in 1997 and helped to establish an ICC children’s program for orphan and vulnerable children. This program consisted of an emergency placement center and three children’s homes. Some of the children were transferred from the center to the ICC homes where they received nurturing care within a family unit. This was the case with Anne-Marie and her sister, Beti. These sisters thrived in the care of house parents who loved them and provided for their needs.
In June, Beti, married the love of her life, and recently, Anne-Marie completed her course work and will graduate with her degree in dentistry. As these young women take their place as productive members of society in Romania and maintain a firm faith in Jesus whom they love and serve, they have ICC family members like you to thank for the years of loving care they experienced.
In May, Jan and I were able to visit Anne-Marie and Beti and attend a reunion of the ICC Romania family. It was wonderful to see several of our grown children as well as dedicated care center staff and house parents. Warm embraces, smiles, and laughter filled the room.
As time passed, the crowd began to disperse. However, many of those who remained, who lingered basking in the moment, were the house parents and the children. They had bonded, lived together, ate together, worked together, solved problems together, and worshipped God together. They lingered because of a deep bond, because of love – the love of a family. It reaffirms that ICC’s model of home-based care for children is ordained by God and blessed by God.
Thank you, ICC family, for your love and support of orphan and vulnerable children. Anne-Marie and Beti bear testimony to the wonderful impact of your support!
Click here to see more pictures of Anne-Marie and Beti.
