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02.2008
KAZAK YOUTH BENEFIT FROM IMPACT PROGRAM
KFF Partnership Makes a Difference
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Recent statistics place the number of orphaned children in the world at more than 140 million. That figure is staggering, and the painful reality is that most of these kids will never be adopted. For them, tutoring and training are the lifelines they need to make a successful transition from institutional care to independent living.
Fortunately, the InterLink Resources organization has established a program to address this growing need. Through InterLink’s Youth Impact Program, young adults in Kazakhstan are now being
provided employment and life-skills training to help them prepare for the unique challenges that face all graduating orphans.
The Youth Impact Program started in 2007, and the KidsFirst Foundation helped this important initiative
take flight. KFF funds were put to work to kick off the program last August in Taraz, Kazakhstan. And the
Foundation plans to continue its support in 2008.
“Getting this program off the ground took a lot of hard work, but the Kazak youth have really responded
well to the opportunity,” said Sandi Baron of Interlink Resources. “These kids want direction on how to
succeed in life, and we appreciate everything the KidsFirst Foundation family is doing to bring hope to
youth who are too often overlooked.”
The Youth Impact Program provides youth the opportunity to learn about setting goals, overcoming
obstacles, working in teams, trusting one another and embracing an “I Can” attitude. Basic employment
and career development training is provided. The program also includes social skills training so youth
can learn how to communicate and interact
effectively with others.
“This program is already making a difference
for the youth of Taraz, and we think it
has tremendous potential going forward,”
said Carol Johnson, board member of the
KidsFirst Foundation. “InterLink has gained
the trust and interest of these youth, and
our partnership is going to play an important
role in helping these kids succeed.”
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Currently, more than one million children live in orphanages in the
former Soviet Union. Only about 15,000 are adopted each year. |
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The KidsFirst Foundation has already made a difference in the lives of many children and families. |
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