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TO RUSSIA WITH LOVE What does the Altrusa Club of North Georgia and a small orphanage in Shchuch’ye, a Russian village located halfway around the world, have in common? A suitcase carefully packed full of over $160 of children’s vitamins, aspirins, bandages, toothbrushes, toothpaste, gum, candy and loving thoughts. These basic items, desperately needed by the local orphanage and generously funded in part by Club 993, were recently transported by my uncle, Paul, to their final destination. He is currently on assignment in Siberia and we keep in touch via email. I always look forward to hearing about his latest adventure or encounter. You could say I have sort of lived vicariously through him since he has been in Siberia. He has sent many digital photos of historical landmarks and the local events. While some experiences were breathtakingly beautiful, others were stingingly sad. One such poignant reality is the struggles of orphans and orphanages throughout the region. In the village of Shchuch’ye there is a small orphanage. The children range in age from toddlers to 15 years of age. They have been displaced due to alcoholism, drug abuse or physical abuse in their families. The population of the orphanage is continuously changing as some children are returned home or sent to live with other families. Economically the village is poor and there is never enough supplies to meet the needs. Even the most basic items are in scarce supply. However, what the village lacks in material possessions, they make up for with love of these children. The job site nearby, where my uncle is employed, assists with the financial needs. For Russian Christmas, the orphaned children were given a tour, dinner, movie and gifts by the employees of the job site. In return, they gratefully presented a stage show. (See photos). At a recent Club meeting, I relayed the story of the needs of the orphanage. I was overwhelmed at the response! We collected $100! I forwarded the contribution to coincide with my uncle’s next visit home to the United States. My father, Bob, assisted by utilizing his membership at a warehouse club chain. Items were purchased in bulk for the best value. Soon all supplies were on their way to the orphanage. I received an email from my uncle confirming that he and the items had completed the journey! One small deed can have a global impact. That is what Altrusa encompasses. It begins with an idea, gets nurtured by encouragement from enriching and supportive members, then bears the fruit of service and kindness. Dawn R. Wells, Treasurer
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