Our Stories

Over 1900 Aussies and Kiwis have taken up the challenge, and made the trip to Russia. Here is what they had to say about it.


James
"It is so hard to just say one highlight. Cause this has been an experience that has not just changed my life, but has helped change many lives. The most encouraging part of this camp has been when one of the kids asked us to start a Bible study for some of the kids that wanted to know more about the love of God. I really have loved the relationships that I have made. In our time the best is the one that we cannot communicate well, but you know they just want to be around you. This is when you can really see the love of God shining through you."

Irene
"When I first arrived in Russia I thought I was there for me, to make me a better person to improve my spiritual life, not to say I didn't learn a few things while I was there, which I will cherish forever. But I wasn't there for me I was soon to learn this in the most unusual way."

Helena
"The mission was the best thing that I have ever done in my whole life. Seeing all the children with such happy smiles, how lovely, caring, gentle and giving they were to not only our team but to each other. The camp's leaders are exceptional people. The care and compassion they showed to each child was a wonderful thing to see and I will never forget this."

Rachel
"I have loved every minute of camp! Everyone who comes on Love for Kids - Russia has something to offer and God will use what you give."

Theresa
"There were so many highlights! In the first few days of camp a little orphan girl called me mamma: it really tugged at my heart."

Michael
"I have been interested in going to Russia for years but the camps... not so sure, but everything seemed to point to going with Kids Outreach International. So I did and I don't regret it at all. In the end - I really missed being in the camps & didn't want to leave. Things that worried me before were the highlights - God came through. I am sure this will not be my only trip - it was a blessing and I pray that God blessed the kids and leaders through me. "

Nathan, Age 20
"Seriously if you have ever felt that your life is just average this is for you! My heart has been changed, by watching God's love being put into action. Being used by God to show his love to others is an experience I don't want to forget."

Megan
"We really had no idea what to expect. The absolute highlight was the children who were so friendly and responsive.."

Maree
"Many people don't understand why I would come once, let alone twice. Well, it's beyond my understanding also. All I know is that I'm already saying 'next time' ... Was it worth the time and effort fundraising and preparing programmes or experiencing financial stress? These answers I can give simply and with hesitation - absolutely."

Klariske
"To see the children smile and reach for a hug, will stay in my heart forever"

Jonathan, age 19
"Russia is definitely for anyone, especially if you love kids."

Robin
"The smiling faces of the children at your every turn make it very worthwhile"

Amelia, age 15
"The ability to share God's love with people who don't understand your language makes you realise how great and powerful God is. To come to Russia and just love the kids was so much fun. I had a great time."

Sam
"We did the drug and alcohol health program with a few groups. During this I shared my testimony of when I had been a drug user and was getting drunk a lot. One particular group asked lots of questions afterwards. We finished with this group and after we left a good friend I had made, came running out to see me. He stopped me and asked: 'Why did you tell that story? It's not something to be proud of.' I was then able to explain that God was the hero of the story and he understood and went away happy."

Lucinda, age 11
"My highlight was playing with all the kids and meeting lots of new friends."

Danny
"...rewarding and inspirational, spiritually it is beyond words to explain."

Elizabeth
"For me I can't describe a highlight. I love the kids and I love Russia!"

Jonathan
"God still works long after we are gone."

Katya's letter to a team member
"My name is Katya. I met you at a camp where you were near St.Petersburg this summer. You told me and my brother about Jesus and we both received Him into our hearts. A few weeks after we returned home from the camp, my brother died in an accident. Thank you for coming and telling us about Jesus. My brother is in heaven with Him now."