Education

Equipping Children, Transforming Families: Holistic Care in Nepal

aheckman — Thu, 14 May 2026 22:08:35 +0000

Equipping Children, Transforming Families: Holistic Care in Nepal aheckman Thu, 05/14/2026 - 22:08

Equipping Children, Transforming Families: Holistic Care in Nepal

May 14, 2026 ~ Amy Heckman

In Nepal, a child development center is seeing transformation in the lives of the children and families it serves.

Lola’s grandchildren attend the center. Their story is similar to many of the center’s attendees. As part of a large family, there were never enough funds to go around. That includes the costs associated with attending school.

When families lack the resources to purchase school supplies for their children, the center provides books, pens, pencils, and school uniforms. When children struggle academically, the center offers free tutoring to help them improve their grades and build confidence.

For Lola’s family, the lack of funds for school supplies was putting her grandchildren at a disadvantage.

“Because our family was so large, our income was never enough,” she shared. “We always struggled to pay school fees, tuition fees, and buy uniforms for the children. Sometimes, because of lack of money, the children were scolded at school. When the center distributed educational materials [and] school uniforms … we no longer had to buy those items for the children. This helped us use our limited income for other important household needs.”

Lola

The center’s programming includes basic health checkups and hygiene and personal care lessons, ensuring children stay healthy and learn to wash their hands, brush their teeth, and maintain personal cleanliness. These simple actions help reduce the spread of disease, helping children grow up strong. Children then take these skills and others and use them at home, impacting their families.

“[My] grandchildren, who once didn’t know how to do household chores, now help with washing dishes, cleaning the house, and cleaning the toilet,” reported Lola, activities that improve the health of families and help children practice important life skills.

Parents and community members are invited to training seminars at the center to learn about topics such as child safety and protection. The classes discuss challenges like child labor, child marriage, abuse, and violence, helping adults to understand how best to protect children from common risks.

Parents also attend self help groups at the center, a program that educates participants on wise financial choices and helps them reach financial goals. With the funds saved, families can take out loans to invest in small business concepts. At the center, parents can learn marketable skills such as making soap, caring for livestock, and making candles. These business opportunities can increase family incomes, making it easier for them to pay for food, clothing, school fees, and other pressing needs.

“The center not only supported children but also taught parents like us the habit of saving through group activities,” said Lola. “Through this savings group, we were able to borrow money to pay for the children’s exam fees and repair our animal shed. This small saving initiative has brought financial stability to our large family.”

With greater financial freedom, parents contribute a small amount to the center to help pay for student snacks and a percentage of the school uniforms that the center provides. This gives parents a sense of ownership and partnership in the center’s activities, and for the center, it frees up some funds for other operational costs.

“I believe that the saving group has given our family hope and happiness,” reported Lola.

With increased parental support, and the volunteer work of church and community members, the center is poised for long-term sustainability and a reduced need for external funding.

All of these activities have led to community members viewing the center in a positive light.

“Earlier, I used to think that church people do not mix well with society,” shared Lola. “But when I started attending parental training at the center, I saw the kindness and dedication of the believers there, which deeply inspired me. Now, I also participate in the programs.”

Most importantly, the center is a place where children can discover the love of Jesus. Spiritual and moral values are taught through Bible stories and lessons, and children learn to pray. As character qualities like kindness, honesty, discipline, and responsibility are demonstrated and learned, children become leaders among their peers and gain the skills they need to succeed in life.

Bhim* is in 6th grade. His father works as a day laborer to support Bhim, his brother, and their mother. Their limited income meant that even notebooks and pens were beyond their means. Though Bhim was registered at the center, it was a far distance from his home, and he only made the trip occasionally. After a teacher instituted a reward system for faithful attendance, Bhim was motivated to attend every day! He now likes playing badminton with friends, studying, and assisting his teachers. The financial support from the center means Bhim has all the supplies he needs to succeed in school. His teachers and family have also observed growth and development beyond his academic journey.

Bihm

“[Bhim] has become helpful at home as well assisting his mother with cooking, taking care of the chickens, and washing his own clothes,” shared a center leader. “He is now the leader of his group, cooperating well with his friends and siblings, and caring for everyone around him.”

An 8th grade student, Sabina*, comes from a large family where economic realities prevented her from affording everything she needed. While her family noted she was always happy to help around the house, it was her schoolwork that caused stress. Her parents were unable to assist much, and Sabina found even simple homework difficult. She struggled to turn in her assigned work.

Once she enrolled in the child development center, Sabina found the support she needed to grasp her lessons and complete her homework. She also thrived in extracurricular activities like Bible quizzing, singing, and dancing, which built her confidence.

Sabina

Sabina’s family is grateful for the growth Sabina has experienced from the center’s ministry.

“When I look at other children, my daughter seems very wise to me,” said Sabina’s mother. “She is happy with whatever she has.”

As a result of her hard work, discipline, and dedication, Sabina was awarded the Best Student Award at the center this year.

*Children’s names are changed for protection.

children and youth

Holistic Child Development

Child Sponsorship

Education

Nepal

2025 Christmas Project: Annabella's Story

aheckman — Wed, 24 Dec 2025 11:07:00 +0000

2025 Christmas Project: Annabella's Story aheckman Wed, 12/24/2025 - 11:07

2025 Christmas Project: Annabella's Story

The 2025 NCM Christmas Project will provide hope for children in Jordan and Lebanon through Nazarene schools that provide more than just education—they offer a chance to grow, heal, and thrive.

In Jordan, although 97% of elementary-aged children are enrolled in school, dropout rates remain a concern as students grow older—especially among those from low-income families or those who are refugees. In Lebanon, a variety of barriers to education surround refugee children who are often denied enrollment in traditional schools due to discrimination, language barriers, and financial hardship. At the same time, the country’s ongoing economic crisis and persistent security threats affect nearly all students, making it nearly impossible for many families to afford tuition and uniform fees.

To meet these needs, Nazarene schools in the Middle East serve students from kindergarten through high school—many of whom are refugees from Syria and Iraq, displaced by war and violence. The schools offer an affordable, quality education alongside spiritual care that includes daily scripture reading, prayer, and weekly chapel services, creating a place where learning and faith go hand in hand.

The local community, including nearby Nazarene churches, plays a key role in supporting the school community, offering prayer, emotional care, and a chance to grow in faith. Often, teens enrolled in the schools become regular church youth group attenders due to the connection to the school. Some families of students also receive food vouchers, psychological support, medical care, and other wholistic assistance through local churches.

When you give to the 2025 NCM Christmas Project, you’ll open doors for children from across the Middle East to receive an education, build lasting relationships, access healthcare, and grow in faith. Your generosity makes it possible for these children to experience God’s love and care, giving them the hope of a brighter, stronger future.

Will you help unbox hope and give the gift of learning this Christmas?
Learn more and give today.

ANNABELLA'S STORY

2025 Christmas Project: Lina's Story

aheckman — Wed, 17 Dec 2025 17:25:00 +0000

2025 Christmas Project: Lina's Story aheckman Wed, 12/17/2025 - 17:25

2025 Christmas Project: Lina's Story

December 17, 2025 - Hiba Haddad

The 2025 NCM Christmas Project will provide hope for children in Jordan and Lebanon through Nazarene schools that provide more than just education—they offer a chance to grow, heal, and thrive.

Will you help unbox hope and give the gift of learning this Christmas?
Learn more and give today.

LINA’S STORY

Lina* is an 8-year-old student in 3rd grade at a Nazarene school in Jordan. She lives with her parents and one younger sister in a small home. When Lina first began attending the school, her parents were facing difficulties in their relationship, which deeply affected her.

Lina often came to school wearing unclean clothes, sometimes without having brushed her hair, and she frequently seemed sad and withdrawn. Despite these challenges, her teachers surrounded her with love and care. They brushed her hair, helped her feel comfortable, and encouraged her every day.

Slowly, Lina began to feel safe and supported at school. She started smiling more, participating in class, and enjoying time with her teachers and classmates. Today, Lina is thriving. She is an excellent student who loves her teachers deeply. When asked who her best friend in the class is, Lina quickly answers, “My teacher!”

Inspired by the care she received, Lina has begun helping other students in her class—sharing the same kindness and support that was shown to her. She dreams of continuing to grow, learning as much as she can, and always spreading love and care to others.

*Names are changed for protection.

2025 Christmas Project: Rami's Story

aheckman — Wed, 10 Dec 2025 17:54:15 +0000

2025 Christmas Project: Rami's Story aheckman Wed, 12/10/2025 - 17:54

2025 Christmas Project: Rami's Story

The 2025 NCM Christmas Project will provide hope for children in Jordan and Lebanon through Nazarene schools that provide more than just education—they offer a chance to grow, heal, and thrive.

Will you help unbox hope and give the gift of learning this Christmas?
Learn more and give today.

RAMI’S STORY

Rami* is a 15-year-old student in 9th grade who has attended the Nazarene school for nine years. He lives with his parents and two siblings in a modest home, and his family has always valued education and faith as foundations for a better future.

When Rami first joined the school, he struggled academically and often lost motivation. Studying felt difficult and he sometimes doubted his ability to improve. But over time, with the constant encouragement of his teachers and the support of his classmates, Rami began to change. The positive atmosphere at the school helped him believe in himself and work harder each day.

Through patience, guidance, and dedication, Rami transformed into a diligent and confident student. He now participates actively in lessons, helps others, and shows great progress in all subjects. His teachers describe Rami as polite, hardworking, and a role model for his peers.

“When I was younger, I didn’t believe I could be good at school,” said Rami. “But my teachers at the Nazarene school kept believing in me. They always told me I could do it—and now I know they were right.”

Rami says the school feels like a second home—a place where he feels loved, supported, and inspired to reach his goals. His story shows how the ministry of Nazarene schools in the Middle East continues to change lives by giving students hope, confidence, and the chance to succeed.

*Names are changed for protection.

2025 Christmas Project: Amira's Story

aheckman — Wed, 03 Dec 2025 17:09:49 +0000

2025 Christmas Project: Amira's Story aheckman Wed, 12/03/2025 - 17:09

2025 Christmas Project: Amira's Story

December 3, 2025 ~ Lara Mdanat

The 2025 NCM Christmas Project will provide hope for children in Jordan and Lebanon through Nazarene schools that provide more than just education—they offer a chance to grow, heal, and thrive.

Will you help unbox hope and give the gift of learning this Christmas?
Learn more and give today.

AMIRA’S STORY

Amira* is a 14-year-old student enrolled in a Nazarene school in Jordan and is a member of this year’s 8th-grade class. Amira came to the school eight years ago. She lives with her parents and two brothers in a modest home. Her family faces financial challenges, but they always encourage her to do her best in school.

When Amira was younger, she struggled academically and often felt discouraged. However, with the support and motivation from her teachers and family, she began to believe in herself and work harder. Her teachers noticed her improvement and praised her for her effort and persistence.

Amira now feels more confident and enjoys learning.

“I used to be afraid of making mistakes,” she shares. “My teachers taught me that trying is the most important thing. Now I love studying, especially English.”

The encouragement she received has made a big difference in her life. Amira hopes to continue improving and dreams of becoming a teacher one day so she can inspire other students in the same way her teachers inspired her.

*Children's names are changed for protection.

Schools in Jordan: A Place of Refuge

aheckman — Wed, 11 Jun 2025 18:50:45 +0000

Schools in Jordan: A Place of Refuge aheckman Wed, 06/11/2025 - 18:50

Schools in Jordan: A Place of Refuge

JUNE 11, 2025 - NCM STAFF

For children who have experienced displacement and hardship, a stable learning environment provides hope and opportunity. The Church of the Nazarene in Jordan partners with Nazarene Compassionate Ministries to develop schools that serve as a refuge for students seeking knowledge, stability, and a brighter future.

Through the safety and consistency found in these schools, students not only gain academic skills but also find encouragement, community, and a deeper understanding of God’s love.

Omar* is a ninth-grade student from Iraq. Omar is incredibly hardworking and always eager to help his classmates and teachers. After facing difficult conditions at home, Omar moved to Kurdistan and later relocated with his family to Jordan. The transition was difficult—especially learning a new language. While he was comfortable with English and Kurdish, Arabic, particularly writing, was a struggle. But Omar remained determined and continued to work hard.

Omar enjoys helping his classmates just as they help him. He tutors them in English while they support him in improving his Arabic. He also loves going to chapel and learning more about God. As a member of his church’s youth group, he has served in summer camps and even acted as a translator for guest speakers at school chapels. With a strong faith and a love for the Bible, Omar feels called to become a pastor.

Omar and his friends at graduation

Another student, Hasan*, faced significant challenges and behavioral issues in a previous educational program. Concerned for his well-being, his parents made the decision to transfer him to the Nazarene school, even though they are not a Christian family. At first, Hasan was hesitant to engage with his classmates or participate in lessons. But with dedicated support from the staff—including one-on-one mentoring, meetings with the principal, and a peer buddy program—Hasan slowly began to adjust.

As he settled in, Hasan started showing genuine interest in his classes and school activities. His parents noticed a positive shift in his demeanor—he became more enthusiastic about attending school each day. They were thrilled with his progress. Within just three weeks, Hasan began attending the church’s youth ministry program, where he was able to explore the Christian faith in a safe and welcoming environment.

Hasan, 2nd from the left in the back row, on the first day at his new school

Through education in Nazarene schools and educational programs, in Jordan and all around the world, children like Omar and Hasan are given the tools to overcome obstacles, dream bigger, and build a future filled with Christ’s hope. With each lesson learned and every challenge conquered, they gain the confidence to impact their communities and inspire others.

*Names are changed for protection.

Impassioned Love in the City

aheckman — Wed, 19 Mar 2025 20:02:41 +0000

Impassioned Love in the City aheckman Wed, 03/19/2025 - 20:02

Impassioned Love in the City

In one large city in Southeast Asia, the contrast between bustling development and deep-rooted poverty is striking. For many immigrants and low-income workers, the promise of a better life often feels just out of reach, particularly when it comes to providing their children with an education. Amid this struggle, Zion Church of the Nazarene, through its initiative called the "Love Class,” offers a ray of hope to the community. This church is located in a neighborhood rife with economic hardship, drug addiction, and violence, issues that can impact students’ attendance. The Love Class began with a simple yet profound goal: to offer free education to children who might otherwise be left behind in their studies. This initiative not only focuses on teaching literacy but also aims to uplift families and spread the message of faith. Educators are living out the compassionate love of Jesus through this class, often visiting families' homes to address barriers to education and provide support.

Minh* is one of the students who has been empowered through the class. “I can now read the Bible. The best part of the Love Class is that I learned to read and write without paying any tuition fees,” Minh said.

Beyond academics, the class offers a supportive community where children are introduced to biblical teachings and encouraged to participate in church activities.

The mission of the Love Class aligns seamlessly with the broader vision of the Church of the Nazarene. It’s not just about education; it’s about transforming lives through a combination of learning and spiritual growth. By integrating biblical teachings into their curriculum, the program helps children develop a strong moral foundation while also addressing their practical needs.

This ministry is run primarily by volunteers, who often go beyond their duties in a testimony to their commitment to the children’s well-being. Three educators, including two lead pastors and a dedicated church member, teach the children. Their commitment is evident in their willingness to address the personal needs of the students, such as transporting them to class or providing personal care.

Lien* has felt the passionate care from the leaders of this class. “At 14, I was often overlooked by my peers because I couldn’t read or write,” he said. “Thanks to the teachers’ patience, I’ve learned these skills, even though they are still a bit challenging. I felt incredibly supported when they visited my grandpa in the hospital and prayed for him.”

Every month, the church provides essential food supplies to the students' families, ensuring that their basic needs are met. This support is a lifeline for many families facing economic hardship. Diep’s* family faced significant difficulties, but the Love Class provided much-needed relief. “I couldn’t attend public school due to our financial struggles,” Diep said. “Joining the Love Class in 2019 has been a blessing. The food support from the church has been crucial, especially during times when we had nothing to eat. I also enjoy the children’s service, where I have fun with my friends.”

The Love Class aims to expand its impact by continuing to blend education with faith, transforming lives and fostering stronger community ties. The church hopes to build on its success by strengthening its relationships with local authorities and increasing its outreach efforts. By working together, the church and its supporters can provide even more children with the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive. Zion Church of the Nazarene exemplifies how a community of faith can extend compassion beyond its walls, offering support and being a guiding light to those in need. By nurturing both the minds and spirits of the children and their families, the church is not only addressing immediate needs but also fostering a culture of kindness and understanding that echoes throughout the community.

* Children's names are changed for protection.

This story taken from the most recent issue of NCM Magazine. Click here to read.

Through Grief to Hope in Guatemala

aheckman — Fri, 28 Apr 2023 17:46:43 +0000

Through Grief to Hope in Guatemala aheckman Fri, 04/28/2023 - 17:46

Through Grief to Hope in Guatemala

APRIL 28, 2023 · BY AMY HECKMAN

Evan*is a 7th grader in Guatemala who attends the child development center in his town. Evan’s mother experienced complications with childbirth and passed away four years ago. Since then, Evan and his seven siblings have had to face life without her love and care. The teachers at Evan’s center report that despite this tragedy marking his life, Evan is a hard worker who loves to improve. He strives diligently to overcome the obstacles he faces. Evan also attends the local Nazarene church that hosts the child development center, where he participates in children’s church and youth services.

Making ends meet is not easy for Evan’s family. Evan is one of the ten percent of children in Guatemala who work in order to help out at home. He spends a few hours each day in a local bakery to cover his educational costs, as school is only free in Guatemala through the 6th grade. Sometimes, Evan uses his income to help pay for the needs of his younger siblings. To balance all of his responsibilities, Evan goes to work in the morning before school. After work, he goes to school, then to his center in the afternoon, and studies in the evenings.

Being part of the child sponsorship program means that Evan is able to attend the development center for free. There, he receives help with his homework after school, along with spiritual, intellectual, physical, emotional, and social care that is designed to develop all aspects of his life. Evan’s sponsor is a Nazarene church in Wisconsin, and Evan regularly writes notes to the church to shares gratitude and updates. In a recent letter, he expressed how happy he was to be a part of the center.

“I thank God first of all for putting in your hearts the will to help me,” he wrote. “I know that our God will multiply you in abundance.” Evan is not the only one in his family to benefit from sponsorship; two of his younger sisters attend the center as well.

The care given by the staff is impacting each of Evan's family members with the help needed to thrive despite both grief and economic challenges. In a country where only 79% of children complete primary school, the center’s activities help keep children engaged and learning. Most importantly, the center is built on a foundation of faith.

“We take the opportunity to pray with [students] and remind them of how important they are to us, to the church, and above all to God,” said Arnoldo, center coordinator. This kind of encouragement can give children confidence and a reason to hope for a bright future, no matter their current circumstances.

That encouragement is echoed in the care felt through the sponsorship relationship. “I am very grateful to my sponsor,” said Evan. “Even though I do not know them, I feel a great love for them because of the support I have received.”

When you sponsor a child like Evan, committing your financial resources and prayer support, you are making a tangible difference. Learn more here.

*Child’s name is changed for protection.

Holistic Child Development

2022 Christmas Project: Holistic Care

aheckman — Thu, 22 Dec 2022 21:07:32 +0000

2022 Christmas Project: Holistic Care aheckman Thu, 12/22/2022 - 21:07

2022 Christmas Project: Holistic Care

DECEMBER 22, 2022 · DANA FRANCHETTI

Since 2019, Lebanon has been caught in a devastating financial crisis. What was a difficult situation has gotten worse and worse, increasingly amplified by the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2020 Beirut port explosion, and the economic effects of the war in Ukraine. Now, basic items people need to survive cost dozens of times more than they used to.

Through the NCM Christmas Project, you’re providing food and necessities for the many people who can no longer afford them, scholarships for students at the Nazarene school in Beirut, support for those living in Lebanon as refugees, and salary support for teachers and psychologists.

Keep reading to hear how funds from the Christmas Project will benefit teachers and students alike at the Nazarene school in Beirut.

As the people of Beirut continue to live through an extreme financial crisis, the faculty at the Nazarene school is intentional about shaping children, families, and staff to be people of integrity who live out generosity and compassion.

One way this is done is through the influence of instructors who have developed and implemented a new curriculum for the students designed to impact their families and community.

Laur, a teacher at the school, and one of her colleagues have been working on developing the curriculum.

“It’s an anti-corruption project,” she explains. “We're trying to teach them different values because, as you know, we can see corruption everywhere. And we're trying to start with young people especially. So, when they grow up, they go out to society having good values.”

The students have identified several values that they want to encourage at the school and the curriculum covers the meaning of these values and how to live them out. Some of the values they identified were respect, responsibility, and honesty. By having the students help identify their values, it creates excitement and a sense of responsibility for everyone involved.

This holistic approach to education, of teaching more than just academics, is designed to help the next generation develop resiliency, good character, and problem-solving skills. This approach is rounded out by providing access to psychologists to aid students who have faced extreme difficulty and trauma in healing from those experiences.

However, the administration at the school also believes this kind of development and care should also be available for the faculty that works with the students and their families.

“We had a workshop for all teachers, which is called counseling,” says Laur. “This helped a lot to [teach us how to] work with students, how to counsel them, guide them, and how to help them deal with their problems, too.”

Through this equipping, the staff are more confident in their ability to help lead through really complex challenges.

“You know, we all had that fear. Not just because of the refugees, but also because of what happened here in Lebanon after the explosion too, and after [COVID-19],” says Laur. “We had so many problems and we tried to deal with them in different ways, to understand our students better.”

Beyond training, administrators at the school are working to provide for the teachers personally, too. They know that if the teachers are struggling to find food and care, they will struggle to teach well. Marlene Mshantaf, the school principal, addressed this by providing extra support.

The inflation rate in Lebanon has been around 167 % compared to the 8% average inflation rate for the United States in 2022. In addition to inflation, rising food costs due to the war in Ukraine have made purchasing basic necessities incredibly challenging. To combat this, the school administration provided raises and bonuses to teachers, waived school fees for their children, and provided access to as many outside resources as possible to ease the impact of inflation.

“We are getting vouchers to go to the supermarket, to buy food and everything we need,” shares Laur.

At the height of the pandemic, Laur’s father became incredibly ill with COVID-19. He needed access to oxygen and other medication that Laur and her siblings could not afford. The administration at the school decided to step in and help meet this need. They provided the medicine necessary for her father to heal.

These intentional acts of kindness and generosity have elevated the Nazarene school in the community. While the program exists to educate children and provide a safe place for them to learn, it has also become a place for families, community members, and the staff to find essential support. When each aspect of care is combined, it adds up to a holistic ministry that is meeting needs, inspiring integrity, creating ties across cultural barriers, and raising up young leaders who will positively impact Lebanon for generations to come.

When you give to the 2022 NCM Christmas Project, you’ll help Nazarene churches in Lebanon and educational programs like the school in Beirut provide tangible support like tuition, salary, and food packs. Learn more and give today.

2022 Christmas Project: Finding Hope at School

aheckman — Thu, 15 Dec 2022 19:24:38 +0000

2022 Christmas Project: Finding Hope at School aheckman Thu, 12/15/2022 - 19:24

2022 Christmas Project: Finding Hope at School

DECEMBER 15, 2022 · DANA FRANCHETTI

Over the next few weeks, you’ll find highlights from the children, teachers, and community members who are part of the church-led compassionate ministries in Lebanon. Keep reading to hear how two students have found help and hope through their Nazarene school.

Fadi* is a 14-year-old Syrian boy who has lived in Lebanon for 9 years. Due to the war in Syria, his education suffered. Since moving to Lebanon, he attended a few other schools before finding an encouraging community at the Nazarene school.

“On my first day here, I felt a bit strange because I didn't know anyone. I didn't know how people were going to treat me because I was a new student, and I didn't have any friends. I was also worried about how the teachers were going to treat me because I knew that teachers don't treat students well in some schools,” says Fadi.

What Fadi found instead was a school where he was able to build relationships with friends from all over the world, receive a good education, and learn important leadership skills.

The culture that has been developed at the school by teachers and staff is reflected in how the students welcome and encourage each other, regardless of where they came from and what their background is.

Zaina* is in the sixth grade. She grew up in Lebanon, and her family has been impacted by the current economic crisis in the country. The Nazarene school is the only one she has known, and she values the culture of care and welcome students find there.

“In this school, everyone is nice to each other,” Zaina explains. “No one bullies and no one lets anyone act like that ... I love all the teachers because they (have) always been nice to me and my class. They teach us good things to learn and help us for the future.”

Going to school in an encouraging environment that includes core subjects as well as conflict resolution and leadership development helps families heal from their trauma and instills new mindsets in the students. They are learning to see the differences in the people around them as something to embrace, instead of something to be feared. Fadi experiences this firsthand.

“I have a really good friend, Danny, who is from Sudan. His skin color is different from mine, and that didn’t affect our friendship. We are really good friends now. It is actually really cool to be friends with people who are different from you. Our differences shouldn’t stop us from being friends. It could actually make you become better friends,” explains Fadi.

The students at the Nazarene school know that times are hard in Lebanon right now. However, they have clear hopes and dreams for the future of their country and see themselves as being part of the solution.

“It’s not like the other schools I went to,” says Fadi. “When I started school here, I was surprised at how they treat students ... and the students who go here, or will go here, are going to be really influential because this school is so different.”

Zaina has dreams of being a veterinarian one day, while Fadi hopes to be a police officer. They both want to give back to their community and care for people in order to help create peaceful and prospering communities.

“The most important thing that I have learned here is that nothing is impossible. There is always a way to do better than what you have done so far,” says Fadi.

*Children's names are changed for protection.

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