The Power of Hope and Love: Our President, Robert Kalatschan’s Reflection

Greetings from Cambodia!

I trust and hope that this new year brings happiness and joy to all of us. Breakthroughs if I may be so bold today we got to visit the young men from New Hope Home.

The radiant smiles of our young men at New Hope Home

Getting out of the van I was brought to tears as I looked upon these young men that have been trafficked, addicted to drugs as early as 9-10 years old. All types of trauma and brokenness. But I see these young men having the light of hope in their eyes and the love and warmth they gave to me and our team was incredible.

All my fatigue melted away with these amazing hug

Honestly, I’ve been overseas now for a couple of days and a bit drained. Been doing some shopping excursions with the long van rides. And quite honestly, I felt like a motorbike that’s very low on fuel. But seeing these young men filled up my tank! Yes, raising these young guys there are problems and i”issues” to deal with. I asked a good friend of mine from Peru. He leads a large church in lima. I said why does it have to be so hard? He said, “because all the easy places are already done. Go do it anyways!” I’m glad we’re doing it. 

A heartwarming performance by the boys reenacting their life stories

We’ve had kids run away for 2-3 weeks, but come back a little more weary. One of the toughest ones Moses came into our home when he was 10 years old, we think. He has no birth certificate, no family, living in the streets of Poipet, which is known as a funnel of human trafficking into Thailand. Doing what he had to do to survive on the streets. Bearing scars from being beaten.

Moses – the toughest boy, transformed through LOVE

Today as he spoke introducing himself, he said, “my dream is to open a home for street kids like me. For them to have an opportunity in life! He’s not an easy one, but then again I never was either. 

Ngan Chanvireak – a passionate young man eager to contribute to GIBTK in the future

Another young man proudly got up and speaking in English. He says when I graduate university I wanna work for GIBTK! I can’t wait.

Thynai came to me full of gratitude

Another young lad, who ran away sniffed glue and we got him back. His shame and guilt were clearly seen by his behavior. Giving him a big hug and smile, brought some relief to him. A few minutes later he came and sat on my lap, resting his head on my shoulder. I felt in my heart and rest in his.

Join us in transforming the lives of these underprivileged children

Yes financing has been difficult as we’ve grown with the unknown things happening in our country and many other countries yet we will survive!. ?Clearly your encouragement, prayers and yes funding are transforming lives! I hope you can come and see in person the impact into the kids of GIBTK lives.

If any are interested in helping financially it can be done safely at:

www.givingitbacktokids.org

"We highly appreciate you and thank you for transforming lives"

Robert Kalatschan

Giving it Back to Kids

www.gibtk.org

robert@gibtk.org