HUMANITARIAN AID

Our first substantial “humanitarian aid” project involved getting two sets of very nice playground equipment donated, shipped to Vladimir, and assembled at an orphanage and a boarding school for deaf children in the fall of 1993.  We’ve continued to assist the orphanage—with the help of others.  For example, one of the regular “criminal justice” tour groups delivered several thousand dollars worth of high quality donated children’s shoes and the first “tourism development” group presented the kids (at the orphanage staff’s request) with eight bicycles and tricycles.  We have also repaired the playground equipment when local vandals have damaged it.

In 1991 we arranged for an American doctor and a nurse to review Vladimir's healthcare needs and report back to their colleagues.  This helped initiate an ongoing sister Cities' medical assistance program.  In 2005 we arranged for an ISU College of Nursing faculty member to review the Vladimir Regional Children's Trauma Hospital's needs and make recommendations to a group in California that is interested in providing assistance.  Along the way we have sent donated used medical equipment and medical supplies with tour groups, we have helped guide through Russian Customs other donated medical shipments, and we have delivered a variety of medications and other items to individuals and organizations.

When tour group participants—and others—have wanted to provide financial assistance, we’ve identified productive ways to put their aid to work.   For example, one donor provided the funds to purchase a computer and a copier for the Youth Health and Education Center.  This organization works very hard—with very limited resources—to help troubled teenagers, their parents, teachers, and school administrators.  When the staff was told they were getting this equipment they reportedly broke into a spontaneous cheer.  In addition, this organization now has a website in English and Russian thanks to a summer internship that we arranged.  [URL to be added.]

We’ve also assisted with several adoptions.  The positive reputation of the American Home can sometimes help “move things along.”

In general, when possible we attempt to use our experience, contacts, and reputation to get things done ourselves and to help others provide significant assistance.  See, for example, the essay by Norm Manzer concerning his church’s efforts to provide “transitional assistance” to older orphans.

Our motto is:  Just because we can’t do everything, it doesn’t mean that we can’t at least help get some worthwhile things done.

 Norm Manzer, The American Home—A Home Away From Home