Supporters learn how they’re making a difference

By Brianne Binelli, online content manager, Canada

CCFC’s Passport to the World event celebrates successes

CCFC’s Passport to the World event celebrates successes and new goals, while giving guests a chance to meet our CEO and six country directors

MARKHAM, Ont. — Good conversation, food and company was the backdrop for Passport to the World, a meet-and-greet held last night for supporters and country-office directors at Christian Children’s Fund of Canada’s (CCFC) Markham-Ont., office.

“You’re making a tremendous difference in the lives of children around the world,” began Patrick Canagasingham, CEO of CCFC, upon welcoming supporters to the event and thanking them for their contributions. “We are making sure every child is protected. It’s a daunting task, but it’s possible. It’s about putting children at the centre of everything we do.”

Supporters learned about the impact they’re making, providing children with more than their basic needs but also the chance to be safe from being trafficked or from working in a factory.

Throughout the evening, guests were encouraged to pick up a blank “passport” to be stamped as they met each of our six directors living and working in countries where CCFC has sponsored children — Burkina Faso, Ethiopia, Ghana, India, Nicaragua and Paraguay. Along the way, they sampled dishes such as gallopinto, cassava wedges and pakora.

Two lucky donors received a gift basket, thanks to support from Starbucks, capping a night of celebrating culture around the world — including Canada’s 150th birthday.

But, in the end, the purpose of the night was clear: “We want to empower [children], so their tomorrow can be brighter than today,” said Canagasingham, imploring guests to continue to join us on our journey of positive change.

Introducing the team: (above) Patrick Canagasingham, CEO, (at podium) welcomes CCFC’s team of country directors, (from left) Swaleh Karanja, Nicaragua; Dr. Belinda Bennet, India; George Baiden, Ghana; Dr. Feleke Tadele, Ethiopia; Jeremie Ouangrawa, Burkina Faso; and Jorge Mendez, Paraguay

About Children Believe

Children Believe works globally to empower children to dream fearlessly, stand up for what they believe in — and be heard. For 60+ years, we’ve brought together brave young dreamers, caring supporters and partners, and unabashed idealists. Together, we’re driven by a common belief: creating access to education — inside and outside of classrooms — is the most powerful tool children can use to change their world.

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