In Our Community

Yar's Dream Kids

Creating a Better Life for Children a World Away

By Jill Funke | Photos courtesy of Yar's Dream Kids

Board member Anyeth

Dreams can be powerful and can, in some instances, change lives. Minnesota resident Yar Kang says that her long-time dream was to help children. Upon learning from her sister about the plight of the impoverished orphan children in various tribes in South Sudan, she knew the reason for her vision as she explains, “When God calls you to do you something you must look into it.” For this reason, Yar turned that dream into her mission.

As a South Sudanese refugee herself, Yar financed and coordinated a successful effort in 2019 to relocate a group of 25 orphans from several villages to a United Nations refugee camp in Adjumani, Uganda. Yar recalls, “I worried about something happening to the kids during their journey. So had connected with Abraham, a pastor at the camp who arranged for housing, as well as local families who would be financially supported for their caregiving responsibilities. It was a relief to everyone when Yar’s sister called with the good news that the kids had arrived safely at the camp.

Yar sent her own money to help support the kids for as long as she was able. She met many of the children on a spring visit to South Sudan, and she recalls, “I knew I couldn’t continue to afford the tuition costs and I needed to find a solution.” Additional funds were needed to cover the cost of safe housing, daily meals and to enroll the kids in United many things were out of my control, but I kept praying.” She

Nations schools where they were learning to read and write in English. A non-profit organization was established to receive donations and distribute funds for this mission, and a supporter suggested they name the group Yar’s Dream Kids to honor the founder’s commitment to the children.

Beyond grateful for the leaders and supporters of the Yar’s Dream Kids organization, Yar says, “This would have only remained an idea if we didn’t have the backing of so many

Joy to t World Christmas ShowThe Browns

Board members from left to right : Stephanie, Athiee, Rose, Justice and Yar.

others. Abraham, the caregivers, and their families feel blessed as they make such an impact on our dream kids’ lives.” Keeping in regular contact, Yar tells the children she loves them and revels in how cheerful and grateful they are for their large, blended family. She explains, “The children are united in their love for God and a common hope for their future. Their goal is to return to their country with the education and skills to hold jobs and assume leadership roles in their communities.”

Yar’s Dream Kids continues to support the children through challenges they face with the global COVID-19 pandemic. To learn more about the 501 (c)(3) organization, the children, and their supporters, visit their Facebook page or email yarsdreamkids@gmail.com. Contributions can be made through the Cash App: $YarsDreamKids or by mailing a check to Yar’s Dream Kids: 14387 Hickory Way, Apple Valley, MN 55124. n

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