“thank you so much for writing this post: an eye-opening look into something that many people take for granted…”

and – thank you for your blog.

warmest wishes,
veronica

Ann, thanks for your very insightful comments on this subject. Our organization (Chernobyl Children’s Project International) recently started investing significantly in “in-country” rehabilitation for these kids. While an opportunity to summer abroad is very attractive for many families, there are many other Belarusian families who would not even consider sending their kids to a stranger’s home. (If the situation were reversed, I would feel the same!) Also, we work with many ill or handicapped children from home a vacation abroad would not be realistic — for example, children recovering from cancer or heart operations.

Your point is quite valid however . . . it is really hard for people to get excited about programs in which they are directly involved, thus the appeal of these summer programs. Real change requires the long view. Charities have to do their best to ride both horses in order to both keep their funding stream alive, and to affect real change in the regions. For our part, we are moving more and more toward in-country programs. People have to help themselves, and be supported in that, and not always be left beholden to the charity of others.

All the best to you,

Kathy Ryan
Executive Director/USA
Chernobyl Children’s Project International
Visit: http://chernobyl.typepad.com