Changing the World,
One Orphan at A Time BY SUSAN BROWNING SCHULZ
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here are more than 150 million orphans in the world. Even though this number is staggering, the staff and volunteers at Saving Susan Ministry (SSM), a Kennesawbased nonprofit, work hard to make a difference in the lives of many orphans, one step at a time. Its mission is simple, elevating orphan care in developing countries through local partnerships with Christian families. Each child served is partnered with a loving family, to enrich their education and support them in a holistic way. Parent partnering is the heart of the ministry; it is a unique approach where families are matched with orphans in countries whose borders are closed to adoption due to human trafficking. It is a relational experience that also provides financial support. The commitment to build relationships is key. This is accomplished through regular video calls and caring for the orphan as your own, with the intention to remain with the child until graduation, at least. There are four other programs, in addition to parent partnering.
English learning.
As the child’s grasp of the English language grows, the connection with the parent partner deepens.
Music academies.
Investing in music education enhances the children’s lives in many ways.
Field trips.
These trips are taken to serve the orphan communities and provide the opportunity for parent partners to meet their sponsored children.
Next steps.
Sopheak at the university where she is enrolled.
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AROUND KENNESAW | September 2021
All parent-partnered orphans are eligible to apply for funding assistance for university or trade school.
