Recently I went to a public speaking workshop. I never thought of myself as a public speaker before I had to give a three-minute talk on the topic of my choice to complete strangers. I wrestled with preparing my talk…
Category: Compassion International
Facts About Uganda: The Pearl of Africa
Uganda is home to bustling cities, breathtaking national parks and unique wildlife. And amid all its natural beauty, you’ll find even more beautiful people and culture. Learn some fun facts about Uganda that will help you get to know this…
How These Sponsors Raised $120,000 for Children in Poverty
Thinking about hosting a fundraiser for charity but not sure where to start? Matt Vermeer is a sponsor in Michigan who co-founded a golf fundraiser 10 years ago that has raised $ 120,000 for Compassion and helped find sponsors for…
Facts About Nicaragua: The Land of Lakes and Volcanoes
Nicaragua is home to beautiful Caribbean beaches, active volcanoes and Central America’s largest lake. And amid its natural beauty, you’ll find even more beautiful people and culture. Learn some interesting facts about Nicaragua that will help you get to know…
Let’s Make 2021 an Epic Year of Gratitude and Praise
The only way through hard times is … well, through it. You can’t go over, under or around difficult seasons. You simply plow through, one step at a time. Last year was hard. And that didn’t go away because the…
Facts About Togo: A West African Treasure
Togo is a small West African country tucked in the midst of Ghana, Benin and Burkina Faso and bordered on the south by the Gulf of Guinea. Let’s learn some interesting facts about Togo – the home of over 66,000…
Facts About Mexico: Home of Ancient Civilizations, Stunning Landscapes and Vibrant Cultures
Mexico is a beautiful country found in southern North America. From its rugged, arid northern region to its tropical southern border, Mexico features diverse landscapes and cultures. Today we’d love to celebrate this wonderful country where over 58,000 Compassion-assisted children…
Best of the Blog 2020: Your Favorite Stories of the Year
As you might expect during an incredibly challenging year, your favorite stories on the Compassion USA blog were inspirational ones. The most popular blog posts we shared during 2020 were those that showed the resiliency of the human spirit and…
How a Brave 12-Year-Old Girl Escaped From Forced Marriage
Yerosen* shudders every time she remembers that day — the last Thursday of May 2020. As much as she tries to forget the three months she spent in the hands of her abductor, the nightmare still haunts her. It probably…
The Nativity Story – Compassion International
Compassion International SPECIAL NEWS BULLETIN: Click today to request your free ACRX discount prescription card and save up to 80% off of your medicine! SPECIAL DONATION REQUEST UPDATE: Please help American Consultants Rx achieve it’s biggest goal yet of donating…
The Thoughtful Christmas Surprise That Relieved a Worried Mom
Jenny was worried. The mother of three had been working daily in the fields, trying to recover what little remained of her corn crops after they were pummeled by hail. But the damaged crops weren’t even her biggest concern —…
Children in Guatemala Perform “O Holy Night” – Compassion International
Compassion International SPECIAL NEWS BULLETIN: Click today to request your free ACRX discount prescription card and save up to 80% off of your medicine! SPECIAL DONATION REQUEST UPDATE: Please help American Consultants Rx achieve it’s biggest goal yet of donating…
Facts About Tanzania: The Land of Wonders
Tanzania is a stunning country found in East Africa along the Indian Ocean. We’d love to share some interesting facts about Tanzania that will teach you about its fascinating culture and traditions. Come travel with us to the country that…
Facts About Peru: The Land of the Incas
Peru is a fascinating country found in South America. We’d love to share with you some interesting facts about Peru – the home of over 80,000 Compassion-assisted children. Come travel with us to the land of the ancient Incas and…
10 of the Most Unique Christmas Traditions Around the World
This year, most children in Compassion’s program won’t attend big Christmas parties that are typically held at their child development centers. But that doesn’t mean they won’t celebrate Jesus’ birthday in other fun ways! Christmas traditions vary from family to…
See How Lives Can Change When You Donate Livestock
In 9-year-old Derick’s village in eastern Uganda, fathers have passed on poverty to their children for generations. Joseph, Derick’s father, was not going to be any different. It took a gift in the form of livestock to break the cycle.…
How Amazing Are These Games Children Play in Asia?
Games are an important part of Compassion’s holistic child development model. They encourage children to have fun and be active, as well as teach life skills like teamwork, communication, self-confidence, and respect. The games children play at Compassion child development…
Facts About Honduras: The Land of Great Depths
Honduras is a stunning Central American nation that borders Guatemala, El Salvador and Nicaragua. Learn some interesting facts about Honduras that will teach you about this fascinating country that is home to nearly 60,000 Compassion-assisted children! Read the full article:…
This Video of Children Playing “O Holy Night” is Exactly What You Need Today
We hope you’ll smile (but we can’t promise you won’t also get a little choked up) when you watch these children and youth perform a stirring rendition of “O Holy Night.” Read the full article: This Video of Children Playing…
25 Powerful Photos of Children’s Rooms That Will Move You
Step into the homes of 25 children who live in poverty. Whether it’s a corner of a domed traditional home, a simple hammock, or a private space created by a curtain partition, each of these children’s rooms offers precious insight…
These Kids in Togo Need Your Prayers This Christmas!
This Compassion center in southern Togo knows how to throw a memorable celebration at Christmastime. This year, however, a shadow of uncertainty is cast over the children and their families. COVID-19 restrictions have been enforced across Togo, prohibiting the center’s…
Facts About Thailand: The Land of Smiles
Thailand – known as the land of smiles – is a beautiful country found in Southeast Asia. Today we would love to share some fun facts about Thailand with you – facts that will help you understand the culture and…
Celebrate Giving Tuesday With COVID-19 Recovery
What better way to celebrate Giving Tuesday than with a gift to help families in poverty recover and rebuild? Compassion’s Gift Catalog is full of unique ways to make a big impact in the lives of children and their families.…
10 Creative Ways to Include Your Sponsored Child This Thanksgiving
This year’s Thanksgiving will look a little different. With the changes that COVID-19 has brought, Thanksgiving may not include a large family gathering. But I’m grateful that the pandemic has helped us learn how to celebrate with those we love,…
How We’re Supporting Children Who May Wait Years for a Vaccine
Today, on World Children’s Day, while young people across the globe wait for COVID-19 relief, Compassion continues to support nearly 2.2 million children and youths — by equipping 8,000-plus church partners to meet immediate physical, spiritual and educational needs. Read…
The Top 5 Reasons These Kids Are Grateful Will Make You Grateful Too
Is it actually possible to give thanks in ALL circumstances … even when those circumstances are 2020? Yep … and these grateful children who live in poverty prove it! Find out what these kids around the world are thankful for,…
Facts About Rwanda: Land of a Thousand Hills
Rwanda is a stunning landlocked country found in East Africa. Known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” Rwanda boasts towering volcanos like Mount Karisimbi, where mountain gorillas live. Learn some interesting facts about Rwanda and the 99,430 Compassion-assisted children…
How Becoming a Sponsor Gave Me a Heart for Children
When I felt the Holy Spirit’s promptings to sponsor a child through Compassion almost two years ago, something held me back. It wasn’t timing, finances or a need to do more research. It was a fear that I wouldn’t know…
Facts About Ecuador: The Light of America
Ecuador is home to a tropical coastline, Andean highlands and volcanoes, a portion of the Amazonian jungle and the breathtaking Galapagos Islands. Here are some interesting facts about Ecuador that will give you a peek into the culture and traditions…
This Is How Grace Lives Without Limits
Many in Grace’s community saw her disabilities as a curse and even suggested to take her life. But her mother would go to great lengths to ensure she was safe, loved and could live without limits. Read the full article:…
When All You Want is a Pink House
After her family was evicted from their home, 5-year-old Deneilis shared a two-bedroom home with 11 other people. Her family had to wait for their relatives to go to bed before they could pull out old mattresses and sleep on…
Facts About Haiti: Land of High Mountains
Haiti is found on the western third of the island of Hispaniola in the Caribbean Sea. With miles of beautiful beaches, striking mountains, impressive architecture and resilient people, this country has much beauty to share. Here are some interesting facts…
This is What Happens When You Send a Letter to the Child You Sponsor
In the United States, we don’t really think about it much because it’s so easy — you mail a letter or a package, and a few days later it arrives in the mailbox or on the doorstep of the person…
We Stopped Sharing Sponsored Children’s Full Names. Here’s Why.
If you sponsor a child, you’ve probably noticed some updates this fall. The most obvious one: Compassion has stopped sharing the full names of beneficiaries in our program. It’s part of our ongoing efforts to protect child privacy in a…
Facts About Sri Lanka: Pearl of the Indian Ocean
Sri Lanka is a beautiful island nation off the southeast coast of India. Here are some interesting facts about Sri Lanka that will help you gain a deeper understanding of the culture and traditions in a country that is home…
Top 10 Reasons These Kids Love Christmas
Learn why Christmas is the most anticipated holiday of the year for 10 children around the world. Their beautiful answers will put a smile on your face! Read the full article: Top 10 Reasons These Kids Love Christmas Compassion International…
Put Food on the Table by Not Leaving Money on the Table
Compassion-assisted children and their families are fighting for their lives in the face of the global pandemic. Work is scarce, food is scarcer. The good news? Doing more might not require any additional giving on your part. Here’s how to…
Facts About Ghana: The Land of the Warrior King
The Republic of Ghana is a bustling country found in West Africa. Ghana boasts great natural wealth and beauty, not to mention giant markets, colonial forts and a lively culture. Here are some fun facts about Ghana that will help…
Facts About Colombia: The Gateway to South America
Colombia – one of the most biodiverse countries in the world – is home to striking mountain vistas, tropical coastlines, powerful rivers and a portion of the great Amazon rainforest. Located in the northwest corner of South America, Colombia borders…
COVID-19 Has Created a Crisis of Hunger
The worldwide problems caused by COVID-19 seem nearly impossible to count, but millions in poverty share one obstacle that may eclipse all others: hunger. Read the full article: COVID-19 Has Created a Crisis of Hunger Compassion International Blog – Feed…
Responding to a Hunger Crisis – Compassion International
Compassion International SPECIAL NEWS BULLETIN: Click today to request your free ACRX discount prescription card and save up to 80% off of your medicine! SPECIAL DONATION REQUEST UPDATE: Please help American Consultants Rx achieve it’s biggest goal yet of donating…
How Does the Bible Define Poverty?
Many people and organizations view poverty in economic terms. The World Bank has described poverty as “pronounced deprivation in well-being.” This conventional view primarily links well-being to the ability to have command over commodities. By this definition of poverty, the…
Are These the Most Inspirational Teen Girls in the World?
We could all learn a lot from these inspirational teen girls. Living in poverty makes pretty much everything more difficult for them, and yet they persevere. They dream. And they trust. Oct. 11 is International Day of the Girl Child,…
20 Photos That Capture How Awesome Children Are
The world feels a little wild at the moment, the future unknown. Yet every day I see stories about society’s smallest and most vulnerable members — children — who are facing extreme challenges with their heads up and their shoulders…
Facts About Guatemala: Land of Eternal Spring
Guatemala is home to a Caribbean coast, majestic mountains and Mayan ruins and heritage. And amid its natural beauty, you’ll find even more beautiful people and culture. Learn some interesting facts about Guatemala that will help you get to know…
4 Prayers of Praise During a Pandemic
Over the past several months, we’ve asked you to join us in praying specifically for the children and families living in poverty who have been disproportionately affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. You answered. And so did God. Today, we want…
Facts About the Philippines: Pearl of the Orient Seas
The Philippines is a beautiful country found on an archipelago in the western Pacific Ocean off the coast of Vietnam. Consisting of over 7,000 islands and islets, the Philippines boasts cultural and biological diversity. There is great need in the…
A Family Gift Multiplied – Compassion International
Compassion International SPECIAL NEWS BULLETIN: Click today to request your free ACRX discount prescription card and save up to 80% off of your medicine! SPECIAL DONATION REQUEST UPDATE: Please help American Consultants Rx achieve it’s biggest goal yet of donating…
How Does the Environment Affect Children in Poverty?
How do changes in the environment affect children and their families on the front lines of poverty? Here are two stories from Uganda that reflect the devastating impact that climate events can have on the well-being of our sponsored children,…
What God Teaches Us When We’re Forced to Slow Down
What did you do for vacation this summer? I’m guessing that instead of getaways, many of you experienced unexpected changes of all kinds. Each of us has endured significant life interruptions this year that have forced us to slow down.…
Facts About Ethiopia: The Land of Origins
Ethiopia is a stunning nation found on the Horn of Africa. This landlocked country is one of the oldest in the world, and its people are proud of their rich heritage. Alongside the breathtaking vistas and fascinating traditions, there is…
Behind the Scenes of a Compassion Christmas Celebration
Giddy anticipation ripples through the crowd of children arriving for the Compassion Christmas celebration. I watch from the window of a barn-turned-church in Uganda, which sits uphill from a child development center where the kids are gathering. I’m recalling Christmas…
6 Authentic Ways to Be Generous but Not Judgmental
Working in poverty alleviation, I can feel the need to explain and justify the nice things I have. I worry that people will judge me or will judge the organization I work for if I don’t drive a junker and…
Facts About Brazil: A Spirited, Lively and Beautiful Nation
Brazil – the largest country in South America – is home to tropical and subtropical landscapes. From the depths of the remote Amazon River basin to the lively metropolis of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil boasts stunning natural scenery and vibrant…
Video: How the Word “Compassion” Reveals God’s Character
The word “compassion” packs a lot of power. Bible history and etymology buffs, prepare to geek out over an artful new video from The Bible Project. It delves into the meaning of the word “compassion” — and what it reveals…
Not Convinced Your Letters Matter? Meet Kenenisa.
Letters. They are a source of joy and discouragement for nearly every sponsor I’ve met. If you sponsor a child, you might wonder: Do my letters really matter? To answer that question, let me introduce you to 6-year-old Kenenisa in…
Facts About El Salvador: The Little Thumb of America
El Salvador — known as the land of volcanoes as well as “the little thumb of America” — is the smallest but most densely populated country in Central America. We’d love to share some interesting facts about El Salvador with…
Kids in Poverty Adapt to the Strange New World of School at Home
In early 2020, we documented children all over the world as they returned to school or began kindergarten for the first time. Just months later, the COVID-19 pandemic saw schools close in almost every country in the world. As International…
Dignity and Diversity: Honoring the Children You’re Helping
The Latin term “imago Dei” is one that I first heard in a college Bible study. I remember sprawling on the floor of our dorm lobby, rolling the funny words around in my mouth. Imago Dei. Image of God. That…
How Do Sponsors Help Kids Spiritually?
The issues that prevent a child from thriving — malnutrition, illness and emotional and relational instability — are symptoms of poverty, what it looks like from the outside. That means that addressing just one of these areas of development, while…
Facts About Indonesia: Unity in Diversity
Indonesia is a stunning country found on the archipelago between the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean. Made of about 17,500 islands, Indonesia has unique geography. These fun facts about Indonesia will give you a deeper insight into the culture…
Why You Need to Watch the Unite to Fight Poverty Concert
Experts predict half a billion more people are at risk of being pushed into extreme poverty due to the impact of COVID-19. Now, more than ever, we need to stand together in unity to fight poverty! Read the full article:…
5 Biblical Truths to Share With the Child You Sponsor
We all struggle to separate truths from untruths, especially these days. Children living in poverty are surrounded by untruths too — lies told them by their circumstances of poverty. So when you write to your sponsored child, look for ways…
Unite To Fight Poverty – Live Concert Event – Compassion International
Compassion International SPECIAL NEWS BULLETIN: Click today to request your free ACRX discount prescription card and save up to 80% off of your medicine! SPECIAL DONATION REQUEST UPDATE: Please help American Consultants Rx achieve it’s biggest goal yet of donating…
Facts About Bolivia: The Tibet of the Americas
Bolivia — a beautiful highland nation in South America — is nicknamed “the Tibet of the Americas” because of its similar high elevation and climate. See breathtaking photos and learn some interesting facts about Bolivia to get to know the…
Inspiring Stories of Courage and Bravery
“It is easy to get discouraged in a world full of evil, murders and lack of opportunity. It is easy to take our eyes off God and see our weakness and limitations. But with God, there are no limitations.” These…
Facts About Burkina Faso: The Land of Honorable People
Burkina Faso — known as the land of honorable people — is home to more than 60 ethnic groups and many rich cultural traditions. Today we’d like to share an array of facts about Burkina Faso — facts that will…
Kitchens Around the World: 10 Fascinating Photos
These photos of kitchens around the world say more than words ever could. Every kitchen tells a story. From Latin America to Asia and Africa, these intimate images captured by Compassion’s photojournalists show the remarkable ways that families —usually women…
Facts About the Dominican Republic: A Lively Island Nation
The Dominican Republic – located on the Caribbean island of Hispaniola – is a country with a bright and lively culture. We’d love to share some interesting facts with you about the Dominican Republic to give you a deeper look…
Around the World With a 4-Course Meal
No matter where you are in the world, a love for food is one shared trait that unites us all. Yet each culture has its own unique way of preparing, spicing and serving its traditional dishes. To give your family…
Why These Flood Survivors’ Heads Are Above Water
February feels like a lifetime ago now, doesn’t it? But on Feb. 29, we posted this prayer request in Compassion’s monthly prayer calendar: “Pray for the families of 1,558 children in Sri Lanka affected by recent heavy rains and flooding.…
Facts About Bangladesh: A Country Rich in Folklore and Culture
Bangladesh is a country full of green hills, coursing rivers, delicious food and vibrant storytelling. Keep reading for more fun facts about the country and people of Bangladesh. You will learn some fun trivia and gain a deeper understanding of…
15 Powerful Photos of the Journey From Child Slavery to Freedom
Millions of children around the world remain trapped in child labor. Ebenezer was 6 years old when he was sent to work on Lake Volta, a notorious hotbed of child slavery. These 15 powerful photos capture the injustice he faced…
Facts About Kenya: Culturally Vibrant, Beautifully Diverse
Kenya — home to more than 40 different ethnic groups — boasts of both cultural and natural diversity. Today, we’d like to share an array of interesting facts about Kenya that will give you a deeper look into the culture…
A Surprise Gift for Brazilian Health Workers in Need
Second only to the U.S. in the number of COVID-19 infections worldwide, Brazil has faced supply shortages at its hospitals and health clinics that serve the neediest communities. But here’s the good news: Brazilian health workers in need of supplies…
7 Children Share Their Favorite Bible Verses Right Now
These seven children share some of their favorite Bible verses, and the verses that are encouraging them right now. We pray they inspire you today! Read the full article: 7 Children Share Their Favorite Bible Verses Right Now Compassion International…
Teens in El Salvador Virtually Perform “Days of Elijah” – Compassion International
Compassion International SPECIAL NEWS BULLETIN: Click today to request your free ACRX discount prescription card and save up to 80% off of your medicine! SPECIAL DONATION REQUEST UPDATE: Please help American Consultants Rx achieve it’s biggest goal yet of donating…
3 Girls Who Are Insisting They Are NOT Property
Throughout history, many societies have treated girls as little more than property to be traded in marriage. Enormous progress has been made, but entrenched beliefs are hard to overcome. The practices of child marriage, dowries and female genital mutilation, while…
Compassion Alumni on the Impact of Sponsorship
There are a lot of opinions about sponsorship — from your pastor encouraging you to sponsor a child, to your co-worker who thinks it’s a scam, to our invitations to sponsor, and everything in between! But what do those who…
This Girl in a Wheelchair Inspires All With Her Joy
Four-year-old Maisa from Brazil was born with a congenital malformation in her legs. Despite being unable to walk, her optimism is infectious, and she has found acceptance and encouragement at her Compassion center. Her bright smile and outlook will definitely…
Dear Sponsor – Compassion International
Compassion International SPECIAL NEWS BULLETIN: Click today to request your free ACRX discount prescription card and save up to 80% off of your medicine! SPECIAL DONATION REQUEST UPDATE: Please help American Consultants Rx achieve it’s biggest goal yet of donating…
3 Ways to Write to the Child You Sponsor
Paralyzed by the thought of mailing anything? Tired of technology? There’s a writing method for you. Here are three easy ways to make writing the child you sponsor a breeze! Read the full article: 3 Ways to Write to the…
These Children Created Art to Tell Sponsors How Much They Love Them
A group of children in Bolivia gathered together all of the arts and crafts supplies they could to create treasures for their sponsors. We wanted to showcase some of our favorite art projects for you – as a reminder that…
How a Simple Fish Cooler Improved a Family’s Life
Father of three, Julius, lost his job as a minibus driver due to COVID-19 quarantine restrictions. He began buying and selling freshly caught fish instead. But without a freezer, he could only purchase a small amount of fish or risk…
5 Helpers Caring for Kids Behind the Scenes
My favorite thing to do when visiting a Compassion center is to look for the helpers. I hug the cook and thank her for lunch. I find a tutor and tell her how the sacrifices she makes are changing lives.…
Give a Man a Fish Cooler …
Father of three, Julius, lost his job as a minibus driver due to COVID-19 quarantine restrictions. He began buying and selling freshly caught fish instead. But without a freezer, he could only purchase a small amount of fish or risk…
Our Top Picks for Thoughtful Summer Entertainment
Media influences the way we see the world around us. It can shed light on our current cultural moment in a meaningful way. It has the power to spur us on to be people who seek justice, love mercy and…
Ethical Fashion: How to Alleviate Poverty By Changing How You Shop
The fashion industry can have a profound impact on the lives of people living in poverty. Here’s how you can help make positive change. Read the full article: Ethical Fashion: How to Alleviate Poverty By Changing How You Shop Compassion…
A Heartfelt Thank-You Letter From a Mom
Mother of three, Mimi, shares the heartfelt thank-you note she wrote to staff at her daughter’s child development center. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, her husband has been in a leprosy colony and the migrant mother has struggled to provide for…
I Will Never See My Children Starve Again
When the COVID-19 pandemic threatened Mary’s family with starvation yet again, the church stepped in with a long-term solution to feed her family. Read the full article: I Will Never See My Children Starve Again Compassion International Blog – Feed…
These 8 People Prove You Can’t Quarantine Kindness
This post is dedicated to you … to all of you out there being salt and light in your own communities and to children living in poverty around the world. Keep reading for inspiring ways Compassion supporters like you are…
The Bangladeshi MacGyver Turning Trash Into Robots
Ever since he was 6 years old, Sanjoy has wandered junkyards in open-mouthed wonder. Eyes narrowed in concentration, he expertly sifts through the trash, seeking out discarded metal and spare parts to use for his inventions. Today, his friends think…
5 Bible Verses to Give You Hope in Hard Times
In challenging and uncertain times, we have the source of all hope in our corner. All we have to do is turn to his Word and read the stories of hope written in the Bible to remind ourselves of God’s…
A COVID-19 Update From Compassion’s Three Regions
While cases of COVID-19 are slowing down in some countries, they are ramping up in others and deeply impacting the communities where Compassion works. Today, we’re going to hear directly from each of Compassion’s three regional vice presidents, to learn…
Why Aren’t My Sponsored Child’s Letters as Engaging as I Hoped?
Why are some letters from sponsored children personal and relational while others feel formulaic and impersonal? In this article, we think through some of the reasons this might be your experience and refocus our hearts on the purpose of letter…
What to Do When You Realize Dad Can’t Fix Everything
When I became a dad, I had this urge to fix things before they even needed fixing, and many of the thoughts that crossed my mind were far beyond the scope of my control. It began to dawn on me…
How to Be an Effective Social Media Slacktivist
Before you post, re-tweet or change profile pictures in reaction to news, consider these 7 ideas on how to take the “slacker” out of social media slacktivist. Read the full article: How to Be an Effective Social Media Slacktivist Compassion…
Pastor Makes His Own Mask and Gives Away His Own Food to the Poor in His Community
Meet a superhero: Pastor Ganiban! He’s using whatever he can so he can give whatever he has to those struggling. This man is just so incredible, using faith to fight fear during this global pandemic. Read the full article: Pastor…
Children Answer the Question “What Makes You Happy?”
Children are good at finding joy in any situation, aren’t they? That’s why we asked Compassion-assisted children from across the globe to share with us the things that make them happy. We pray this will inspire you to look for…
Clean Water Has Completely Changed Their Lives! – Compassion International
Compassion International SPECIAL NEWS BULLETIN: Click today to request your free ACRX discount prescription card and save up to 80% off of your medicine! SPECIAL DONATION REQUEST UPDATE: Please help American Consultants Rx achieve it’s biggest goal yet of donating…
