My journey with Star of Hope began a late summer evening 1996 when I was introduced to a Jossi. She had recently been to the Philippines, she told me in an engaged way for hours about the country, the people and the Star of Hope good work there among the poor.
I had long wanted to support any development organization. Star of Hope felt right immediately after listening to Jossi.
A few days later Star of Hope was contacted and I became sponsor to a little girl in the poor district of Crame in the megacity Manila. More on her later, but she has now graduated college.
I had great connection with Star of Hope right away and the staff was helpful with my questions and more.
It turned out that some of my friends were on vacation to the Philippines in spring 1997. I asked Star of Hope whether it was possible to visit Star of Hope schools, and my sponsor kid. Of course the staff said. I got the contact information and faxed to the Philippines about my visit. Got an answer within a few days that I was welcome. I booked my ticket and packed my bag.
End of Part 1.
Some pictures from the Star of Hope preschool in Crame and its graduation ceremony in March this year. More pictures on Flickr.