501 Collective Update in Ukraine & Romania
501 Collective in Ukraine & Romania
Alexis, you just returned from Romania & Ukraine with 501 Collective for a third time…
How have things evolved since your first visit in April 2022?
It’s much more calm and feeling more settled. For example, when we first went in April 2022, the main building at Fight for Freedom, our partner organization in Romania, was abuzz with dozens of volunteers (both local and international), staff, and refugees. The building was receiving a major renovation, so there were construction workers and dust everywhere. Most people were just trying to jump in to help wherever needed, and it looked and felt somewhat chaotic. In August 2022 when we went for the second time, things were definitely more stable. The food distribution program was running and very organized. They had received the first group Ukrainian refugee kids, and they had their daily routines, but a couple wings of the building were still undergoing renovation. Fast forward to December 2022, and the building still houses about 75 Ukrainian orphans along with the women caring for them. The whole building and organization has settled into routines regarding the care of refugees (mainly children), food distribution, and various other outreach and projects Fight for Freedom is working on.
What has spurred you on to continue returning?
There are three things that keep me going back: Conviction, commitment and people.
1. Conviction: If I can help in some small way in the midst of this horrible situation, send me! My desire in life is to be a light, make a difference and serve people in need. Even if it’s just a smile or hug or showing them that someone halfway around the world cares, it’s worth it.
2. Commitment: My husband and I were first given the opportunity to get involved in Romania and Ukraine in March 2022. Believe it or not, I didn’t want to go at first! I am so glad I answered the call! Since then, we feel called to be committed long-term through our nonprofit 501 Collective. Long-term commitment looks like continuing to show up and encourage our friends at Fight for Freedom, lend a helping hand and support them in any way we’re able.
3. People: Ultimately, it comes down to the people. The connections and friends we have made on these trips keep me going back! These relationships are priceless and so special. Knowing that each time we go back, we’ll see our friends as well as continue making new friends makes it hard not to continue going! The thing that has stolen my heart though, are the 75 Ukrainian orphans at Fight for Freedom. They are the sweetest, and I love spending time with them. Tom and I want to adopt them all!
What are your hopes for the people of Ukraine?
My hope for the people of Ukraine is that the war will end and there will peace in their country.
My hope for the people of Ukraine is that those who have fled from their country will be able to return back safety.
My hope for the people of Ukraine is that those who have left to go to another relatively safe part of the country (internally displaced refugees) will be able to return to their homes.
My hope for the people of Ukraine is that they’ll continue receiving help and support in rebuilding their lives.
My hope for the people of Ukraine is that they won’t be forgotten.
My hope for the people of Ukraine is that they will heal and be able to not just survive but thrive.
My hope for the people of Ukraine is that they will seek and find Jesus to be their comfort, hope and peace in the darkness of this war.
What is something from your time in Romania & Ukraine that you will remember forever?
Nearly everywhere I’ve traveled internationally, I’m always struck by the strength and resilience of people around the world affected by war or disaster. It’s amazing how they persevere and fight each day to keep moving forward, whatever that may look like. One thing that always sticks with me is the smiles. I’m struck by the fact that they keep smiling, and they’re often happier than the people who have it all. Our friends who may have little, or things may be going horribly for them, are often so generous in heart and spirit!