Training Center prepares teenage orphans for success
At the training center, orphans learn valuable job skills.
Instructors teach courses in computers, English language, and life skills.
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KIEV, Ukraine - Between the ages 15 and 16, orphans in Ukraine are released from state institutions and expected to begin living as independent adults in society. For many, however, the transition is costly. Unprepared to enter the world beyond the orphanage's walls, they often face a future of crime, drugs, prostitution and even death.
For most, the idea of a successful life is a distant and often unachievable goal. "It's a world of wolves with the wolves' laws," said a youth living in the streets. "My dream is to grow up and get married, so that I can finally have a family and have a happy life."
With a mission to equip newly-released orphans with practical life skills, Operation Blessing opened the Graduated Orphans Training Center in September 2005. The success of the center speaks for itself. They began with 50 students, and in three months time, grew to full capacity with 250 students.
"I am so grateful for this opportunity," said one student. "Every person has a dream and you are giving us a chance to reach that dream."
At the center, students take English language and computer courses, two of the most highly-demanded skills in the Ukrainian job market. In addition, the center also teaches a comprehensive life skills curriculum which includes courses in cooking, financial planning, shopping and time management.
"The majority of orphans who spend their lives in institutions have no idea how the real world works," said Nataliya Khomyak, the regional office coordinator for the center. "Here they have the opportunity to acquire these important life skills and successfully adapt into society."
"Such chances come rarely," said one student. "But through you, Operation Blessing, I have been given this chance to have a future. I want to become successful in life so that I can help children like me - those who cannot help themselves."
How You Can Help
Help transform the future of an orphan by giving them an opportunity to succeed! Your online contribution will allow Operation Blessing to continue this life-changing work.
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