Two Stories of Hope: Alexandru and Raul
Dear Friend,
When you support Point of Hope, you are not just giving to a program.
You are investing in a child’s entire future.
Today, we want to share two stories that show exactly what that investment looks like — from the very beginning of a child’s journey, all the way to a life transformed.
Alexandru’s Story: The Beginning of Hope
Alexandru has been coming to our Day Center since kindergarten.
Now he is finishing third grade.
But his journey has been anything but simple.
Alexandru comes from a family with very little money. That made school and home life hard. Without support, he might have fallen behind. He might have believed that struggle was all his future held.
But because you stood with us, Alexandru found something he desperately needed: a safe place to learn and play.
He received help with homework. He joined learning games. He took part in art and group activities. These simple things — tutoring, a caring adult to listen, school supplies — began to change what was possible for him.
Over time, his grades got better.
He began to enjoy learning.
He made friends.
He felt proud of himself.
Today, Alexandru is a hopeful student. A child who believes in his own potential.
That did not happen by accident.
Your gifts gave Alexandru the material, educational, and spiritual care he needed to grow. Your kindness and generosity helped a worried child become a hopeful student.
Raul’s Story: Seven Years of Faithfulness
Now imagine that same child, seven years later.
That is Raul’s story.
Raul has been an integral part of the Point of Hope family for seven years. Throughout his time in the program, he has maintained an exceptional daily attendance record and demonstrated profound personal growth.
But Raul’s journey has not been easy.
Tragically, during his time with us, Raul suffered the devastating loss of his mother.
Many children would have given up. Many would have believed that loss meant the end of their dreams.
But Raul remained incredibly ambitious.
Because you continued to stand with us, Raul had something that mattered more than anything: consistent love, support, and belief in his future.
He had people who showed up for him every single day.
He had tutoring and encouragement.
He had a safe place to process his grief and find hope.
And this June, Raul successfully graduated 8th grade.
He has been officially admitted to high school.
And through our vocational workshops, Raul discovered a true passion — developing remarkable skills as a meticulous and talented tailor.
One Promise. Two Stories. Your Impact.
Alexandru’s story shows us the beginning of what hope looks like.
Raul’s story shows us the fruit of what seven years of faithful support can produce.
Together, they tell the story of Point of Hope:
Reach. Teach. Transform.
Alexandru was reached with compassion and a safe place to learn.
Raul was taught with patience and love through his darkest moments.
Both are being transformed — one at the beginning of his journey, one stepping into a future he once thought impossible.
This is what your support makes possible.
Not just programs.
Not just meals.
But the steady, faithful presence that tells a child: You are not forgotten. Your life matters. Your future is worth fighting for.
The Promise Continues
As Point of Hope kicks off its 20th year of ministry, there are still children like Alexandru waiting for their first safe place.
There are still children like Raul who need someone to believe in them through their hardest seasons.
Will you continue with us?
Your support will keep classrooms open with God-centered programs for more children to learn, grow, and thrive.
With gratitude,
Tim Oloffson- Founder & Executive Director
