I have had the honor of volunteering with Arms of Love in Nicaragua over the past 9 years. Every time I visit, I appreciate how the kids and staff welcome our team like family. I love how the mission of the organization is to not only provide housing for kids who need it, but to give them as much as possible the love, care, and support of a family. It is evident how the staff at Arms of Love do not just see their role as a job, but more of a calling. They work tirelessly to serve the kids in their care, and they have a faith in God and His provision that inspires me on every visit. God has used this trip to meet me and transform me, many times. Each trip is a re-orienting of my ways to God’s ways. The community of Brazos de Amor, Nicaragua is a place where you can see God moving every day.
I have also appreciated that Arms of Love is an organization that has allowed my whole family, husband and three children, to volunteer and participate in the work they are doing. They welcome the volunteering and participation of children, as it demonstrates equality and value to the kids who participate in their programs. Volunteering as a family has created strong memories and bonds for our families, and helps our children to learn about and participate in other cultures, broadening their view of the world and of God’s kingdom.
Having volunteered with Arms of Love for so many years now, has also shown me the intentionality and frugality of the organization. We know that any money our family contributes will be used thoughtfully, prayerfully, and put to the use of immediate needs in their community. We look forward to being able to continue to participate in the work God is doing at Arms of Love, both through more in person volunteering, but also through continued financial contributions.
We visited the Arms of Love location in Nicaragua. They have an amazing staff that run three ministries; a children's home, a community center that supports the public school double session with both morning and afternoon homework help, computer skills classes, English classes and art classes, they also have a transition home for young adults.
Hello, My name is Cinthia Maria Blas Astorga, I am 18 years old. In 2016, I started attending the Arms of Love community development program. Because of the support of Arms of Love I have been able to achieve some of my goals and dreams. Ever since joining the program they have given me a lot of love and support, especially in my primary and secondary classes. I thank God I was able to complete my studies with excellent academic grades and I am currently studying the first year of my university degree, which is public accounting and finance. I trust in God that He will help me complete them. I want to thank Arms of Love and all of the people that have supported and believed in me. May God bless you and all your families.
Hai my name is danilo morala, 26 years old, i came ine arms of love last 2006 and im really happy that i am part of arms of love family. It was really a blessing having arms of love to support my need they are like my real family, without arms of love, i cant imagine where i am right now, Anyway i grow up on arms of love for many years my childhood memory there was really amazing that i really feel the love there, even though sometimes you can feel yourself that quit on study, but i keep on pushing myself to finish the job that i can graduate and help my family. Last june 11 i graduated my bsba major in fm. Bachelor of science major in financial management. It was really a big success to finish my study and starting my journey to find a job.
Hi, my name is Estrella Poveda! I arrived at Arms of Love in Nicaragua when I was approximately 4 years old in 2006. I don't remember much about my childhood but I was very small. Over the years I can say that I was a very happy girl with the people who supported me. They instilled good values in me, both spiritual and emotional. For me, Arms of Love is my family. I felt loved by all the staff and teams that visited us.
I am very grateful for being part of the Arms of Love family. The work that Arms of Love has done in my life has taught me that difficulties and pain do not define our lives and I’ve learnt to depend on God and therefore turn my experience into a way to give hope and to bless others.
My Arms of Love family has not only left a mark on my life but has also changed the lives of many young people and children. They now have a prosperous life in God. I am grateful to God and to my family of Arms of Love because at this moment I am studying law and I’m only one year away from graduation. I’m thankful to God and for the hard work that Arms of Love has done in my life. I am certain that God will continue completing their successful mission and that other children and young people will have the opportunity to continue forward. God bless all the people who give that grain of sand possible to fulfill our goals and dreams.
My name is Nabasca Donnabell Marie B. I'm twenty-two years old. I simply want to tell you about my life.
The family I grew up in was broken. I am the middle child with two half brothers. We have our stepfather around us as we grow up. I was nine years old when my mother passed away in the fourth grade. I dropped out of school for a year due to my mother's situation.
I shared a home with my mother's elder sister, my aunt. Living with me were four cousin girls. During that period, I was responsible for all home responsibilities and faced harsh treatment from my aunt. I feel so hopeless, like everything is so gloomy, and I've never been able to discover the happiness I've always desired. I was unable to explain myself or stand up in front of them as I often feel invalidated.
I am quite excited to study in Cebu City after completing my elementary school education. It is known as a "girls town" and is backed by nuns and priests. My aunt gets upset when she finds out that I passed the entrance exam, which I took in secret and waited for the results of.
My uncle from Bohol is aware of Arms of Love, therefore they want me to send me there, but she doesn't want me to send me to Cebu City. I've always doubted myself and thought my future wasn't so bright. I'm always sent there by them. At that moment, I didn't understand why they wanted me to go to Arms of Love. My uncle used to assure me that I would have a bright future once I arrived at Arms of Love. Before agreeing to travel to Arms of Love, I had made up my mind for three nights. Because the cost to Arms of Love is so high, my aunt was unable to travel with me. As a result, I traveled alone.
I joined the Arms of Love Family when I was twelve years old. I was afraid to talk to the kids on my first night there as I get timid when they ask me questions.
My relationship with Jesus and the free gift of salvation I received were made possible by the Arms of love that guided me to Him. By the mercy of the Lord, I have been found after formerly being lost. In the sight of the Lord, I am great, worthy, and adored. Arms of Love brought out the best in me and taught me how to lead worship during an activity when I was a residential child. They never fail to remind me that my confidence is in Jesus. Many unexpected things happened to me while I was a college student, including spiritual and emotional ones.
Life is emotionally abusive, in my opinion. I had no idea that life would be more tough than I had anticipated when I was not surrounded by affection. Living in a dorm wasn't simple for me. My aunt brought me to this church, where I prayed for months prior to reintegrating. The Lord never ceases to amazed me with His mercy and grace, which makes me feel so grateful and blessed. He does, in fact, answer my prayer that I will be able to join the worship team at a church where I can continue to grow.
God is so wonderful. Despite all of my hardships, He never ceases to astound me. I recently received my Bachelor of Science in Psychology from my university. It was always God. His assurances that He will never abandon me have me incredibly appreciative.
I sincerely appreciate the support provided by Arms of Love and the Love Forward family throughout my tumultuous path. I also wanted to express my gratitude to my wonderful sponsors, without whose support I could not have completed my studies. I can't express how happy I am to have met everyone of you. That my sponsors' efforts to help me didn't go to waste was all for you. I appreciate everything you do to help me fulfill my goals of attending college. This is only the beginning of what life has to offer; my tale is not over yet.
Jeremiah 29:11
“For I know the plans I have for you, “says the Lord”. Plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give you hope and a bright future.”
Arms of Love for me is not an organization as other people see it, but it is a family that grows every day. It is an environment where each person arrives because they feel called by God and they feel they have what it takes to impact the lives of our children and adolescents for good. More than just teaching and educating, they are an important pillar for our future, as they teach us life lessons and also play the role of a mother and a father, striving to give their best so that we become great people in life.
They are always in line with Christianity since it is the fundamental basis of Arms of Love. Faith in God and love for the children make every moment in Arms of Love unique because they are memories that we will always carry in our minds and hearts, as they will always be an essential part of us. And even though at times the children or workers may leave Arms of Love environment, they will always remain part of the Arms family because we have connected in an incredible way (like a real family), and each of us feels grateful to be or to have been part of the beautiful and wonderful Arms of Love family. Arms is a great support to help us achieve our dreams.
I recently had the opportunity to take a trip to Nicaragua to visit Arms of Love's protection center (orphanage) Brazos de Amor. When I got there I was impressed with the staff and the care and love that they gave all the kids there which was only multiplied in my view as I got to know them on a deeper level. The staff there were not only great people who I felt genuinely cared about the kids, but I later found out after talking to them the career opportunities they had passed up in order to stay at Brazos because they felt called to look out for these kids. In a world where lack of transparency and fraud is rampant within NGOs I feel that Arms of Love is the exact opposite and has continued to be transparent about what they do and how they do it. Because of this and the people that work for/with them I am going to continue to support there cause.
I know that Arms of Love makes a real difference because my elementary-aged children and I lived with them for a time. They lacked birth parents who could care for them, but how were they able to so welcome us and care for us? Arms of Love transforms the children so that they become useful, confident, loving individuals.
I saw Arms of Love in action. They give a home for kids who have no home. This "home" not only includes shelter, food, education. It further includes love, laughter, and hope. Arms of Love house parents keep daily journals of the kid's physical, emotional, educational, spiritual well-being. Arms of Love social workers review progress and concerns, and provide extra help and counseling where needed. If the children struggle at school, Arms of Love provides extra tutoring, or even transfers the kids to better educational environments more suited for them individually.
Arms of Love's impact spreads even to the staff, because all the staff at the children's home are local. It gives the locals an opportunity to empower their own people and holistically changes the community. Meanwhile, the American team keep in close contact. All the children know and love the American team. And all the staff can come to the American team for support and training. Through all of this, everyone is constantly praising God and relying on God's help. This is God's good work.
The photo shows a 3D model of the children's home that we built together!
14 years ago, I had the privilege to visit this amazing place for the first time. We arrived at night, the cool weather from the beautiful city of Jinotepe felt good, but the warm welcome we received from the staff members and kids suddenly made us feel like in home, the kids were amazing, well behaved, educated in music and in Christian knowledge making us all feel like part of the group. There was Javier and Elizabeth taking care of all of them like if they were all their own kids, I think that was the key of the success. I see them now as young successful adults making their dreams a reality, dreams that were taking away from them at early age and that Arms of Love played a huge role in giving them back the chance to dream again. Arms of Love is Javier, Elizabeth, Kim, Jess, Ewner, the kids... Arms of Love is all of the wonderful people that was touched and (AOL) hope you continue helping and changing people's lives.
My name is Roberto Flores, I had the privilege of joining Arms of Love in 2015, I was 10 years old when I just came the Protection Home. Well... being part of it completely changed my life in an incredible way, I learned all the values and education that today is the tool that has opened the doors of many opportunities that I have now.
Being part of Arms of Love was a very beautiful experience, they taught me to fight for what I wanted and for my dreams, it is a place where people believe in you in a very expressive way in order to relive everyone's emotions, how the staff worked to get financial help so that we did not lack anything. It is a blessing. They even dedicated extra time for us with reinforcements that shaped me to be what I am now, someone who is disciplined and responsible. Today I have more opportunities in life thanks to the effort that Arms of Love gave to me.
I am very grateful to all the people who from the beginning bet on me without even knowing me, this is further proof of the great Love that God has for each of us.
My name is Maribel, I am 18 years old, I came to arms at the age of 8 when I started the community program in 2013 and that was when I began my journey in which there were changes and learning throughout my childhood, I have been around 10 years in this program and I can only say that it has been the most beautiful process and that I have enjoyed being part of something that was and continues to be wonderful; The affection, help and personal improvement that I have had in all these years has improved the quality of my life and that of my family.
Arms of Love has been part and means of all the important processes of my life such as growing intellectually, emotionally and spiritually, thank God, I, think that other children have had the opportunity to be part of something so amazing and that has allowed us to have different spaces to develop ourselves that day by day mark our lives to move forward and give us vision for the future, I feel lucky and grateful that through this place I am achieving everything I have always wanted.
I believe that God's plans are perfect and my time in this place has been under his will and above all the love that he puts in the hearts of the people who support each process to impact our lives.
I am Eugenio Martín Alfaro Pavón, I am currently 26 years old, I would like to share an unforgettable experience. I was 9 years old in 2007 when I entered the family with arms of love that welcomed me with open arms. I never imagined that I would fall in love with that place. I grew up with amazing people, friends, tutors, directors, Americans. I thank God for having given me that door, because without him I would not have gotten to where I am, I am also grateful for the support that he gave me arms of love for opportunities that at some point I could not have to go to school, to a university, learn English, music. Today I have a decent job in which I work hard to help my family and move forward. I am grateful to God, arms of love, for giving me a good education, a life lesson, and for those people who gave a grain of their support so that I and all the children who grew up with me, became what we are today. . in day.
I have been visiting, donating, volunteering with, and working with Arms of Love for nearly 5 years.
From the first time I stepped foot on their Jinotepe, Nicaragua grounds the first time my family and I saw the love and care they pour into these kids and the community.
I have heard the concerns from so many about institutionalized child rearing, so it was very important to me that any ministry I work with have community prevention programs, as well as independent living programs for after the kids "age out"
Arms of love has amazing programs for both. The thought and care they put into every program they offer, every event the run is just amazing.
I have working with orphanages in Ukraine, group homes in the US as a licensed foster care provider, and other orphanages in Central America. I know the down sides to this type of mission, and I am so impressed with the work Jess and the board do.
The past year I have had the honor of working more closely with Ewner and Ted, to see the care they give the kids. I am just so humbled to be able to support such amazing servants.
I truly believe that the work Arms of Love is doing in Nicaragua is changing the entire community. I haven't had the opportunity to visit their home in the Philippines yet, but knowing Jess it is as much a beacon of hope as their home in Nicaragua.
I am bringing my second group of volunteers to visit in a year later this month, if you have the opportunity visit and work with this amazing organization, you won't regret it!
Arms of Love International is a great organization doing work in Nicaragua and the Philippines. Their team is very passionate and dedicated to the cause and they provide tremendous support to the local community. My Organization, The LAUREN Project, has funded dozens of volunteers and has even helped provide additional funding when needed. Can't say enough great things about the work they are doing, truly changing lives and making the world a better place!
Brazos de Amor, specifically in Nicaragua, has been a space of support, accompaniment and follow-up for many children in the area, not to mention that it has a committed team dedicated to children.
Every day, they always manage to exceed my expectations, because of their commitment to the integral development of these children.
I have known about & supported Arms of Love for many years & have even visited one of their centers in Nicaragua. A beautiful organization with a heart for children. Efficient & effective.
Conocí al equipo, a sus líderes, su propósito noble y simplemente doy gracias a Dios por la existencia de esta organización que puede cambiar la vida y el futuro de niños y adolescentes de nuestra nación.
Before I had the honor of going to the Philippines with Arms of Love myself, my eldest brother and several friends had volunteered with them. I heard only positive reports and there was always a desire to return from those who had once volunteered. Due to COVID I was unable to go on a trip with Arms of Love to the Philippines until this summer, June 2023. I am so glad that I was able to be a part of the team! Arms of Love has blown me away by how well it focuses on the well being of the children they work with. They desire to cultivate home, healing, and hope in the lives of children on the island who have nowhere else to turn. During my visit there was a lot of transition and change happening on campus. The Arms of Love staff were handling that added challenge with grace and understanding, while benefitting the kids and hosting the volunteer team. I was so inspired by the stories, dreams, and successes the children at Arms of Love shared with me. I believe Arms of Love is doing a wonderful job giving these kids a stable foundation from which they can securely grow. They cultivate personal faith, motivation, and healthy habits that will benefit these kids for their whole lives. I would definitely recommend Arms of Love to others looking for a missions opportunity to invest in the needs of children, and I cannot wait to return to the Philippines with them once again.
I first visited Arms of Love in 2007. I fell in love with the children. I was so impressed by the care and love shown to them by the amazing staff that I returned several times after. I have been to the homes both in Nicaragua, and in the Philippines. I have also been a long time donor because I know the money is managed well.
I have been a sponsor and donor for the last 14 years. I first got involved when my younger sister went on a mission trip and came back sharing stories about the children and encouraged us to help. My husband and I decided to become sponsors and chose three older teenagers Eduardo, Pilar, and Alejandro. We thought children entering high school and university might be less likely to receive sponsorship. We've enjoyed receiving hand written cards, photos, and regular updates from them. We also enjoy being involved in a small ministry where we know the children and can see the impact we get to be apart of. Over the years, we have also donated to special projects such as a small community farm, raising chickens, typhoon relief, and staffing needs. Arms of Love is not a large organization, but a small one, that works hard every day for the needs of their children. We are dedicated to its mission and hope more people get involved. It is a wonderful blessing to our family!
As long time donors of the non profit “Arms of Love” I can truly say it is a pleasure to partner with them in creating a healthy, loving, educational environment for at risk children! They have the children write letters of thanks to their supporters and give updates on how they are doing and goals they hope to achieve. The organization sends newsletter regularly and has video gathering to keep us informed and up to date on what’s happening! It is the best non profit that we support! Cheryl Cowles
I visited the Arms of Love home in Bohol for the first time in 2015 with a small team led by Steve Bagley. This trip made a huge impact in my heart and in my relationship with my Dad, Robert Benson. I finally got to see the fruit of my Dad’s ministry upclose. From the first day I met the children, I felt deeply connected to them. Their joy-filled spirits and love for one another was a living testimony of God’s heart for us all. Every child’s smile was worth a thousand words. I could hardly believe that these children had gone through the worst of circumstances as I saw them running around on the grass lawn. These are my brothers and sisters, I thought. Afterall, we have been loved and cared for by the same Father (both on earth and in heaven).
Fast forward seven years (has it really been that long?) I am twenty-three years old, married to my dear husband, and counseling children as a therapist trainee. My heart has always been drawn towards children because they hold the purest joy and also the deepest wounds. The more I learn developmental psychology, the more my heart aches for the infants who are born into environments that deprive them of care and affection. We literally cannot survive without being held! Who are we to neglect the children God loves? Each child is God’s prized possession.
I am thankful for the Arms of Love family and all that the house parents and staff do for these children everyday. May Christ continue to richly bless you!
I am involved with Arms of Love because of my wife. When we first started dating, she visited Nicaragua three times every year and always told me of how special the kids were to her and that Arms of Love was part of her heart and life. When we married in 2016, we visited Arms of Love together during our honeymoon. I played games with the kids, had good conversations with staff, and from that time, made personal connections with some of the boys. I now give advice to them as they are young men and remind them of God’s plan for their lives. Arms of Love is special. The kids come from tough circumstances and their lives are changed for the good when they come here. I will be part of Arms of Love forever now.
Arms of Love International is an amazing organization. With volunteering and being a donor it is absolutely incredible to the see the love, support and dedication from the staff and organization. They are truly changing lives with the work they do. I will be a supporter of Arms of Love for the rest of my life!!
I am a Registered Social Worker and also hold a master's degree in Christian Education with a focus on Guidance and Counseling. Over the past 9 years, I worked with Extreme Response and focused my time helping an orphanage and residential care family ministries, including Arms of Love, Philippines.
As a professional, I have served as a missionary for two decades. I am passionate about working with those in need on social justice issues and systems affecting marginalized people and communities. I enjoy working with organizations in planning and organizing for people in need, including Arms of Love, Philippines. I am collaborative and have an analytic approach to building strategic partnerships.
In 2019, I met Gaudie Micuotan, the Director of Arms of Love Philippines. I had the pleasure of consulting for Arms of Love Philippines and helping them to grow and develop to best meet the ongoing needs of their children through training, as well as fully complying with the regulations of social services. Through this time, I supported and advised Arms of Love Philippines during their reaccreditation and relicensing with the Department of Social Welfare and Development, a process that is required every 3 years to operate children’s homes.
All of my professional experiences are underpinned by my love for the Lord and my desire to see people come to know Jesus as their Lord and Savior. I have loved serving alongside
Arms of Love Philippines, and am encouraged by the incredible work they do to care for the children in their children’s homes and reach out to others with the saving message of Jesus.
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I love their mission. I think this is beautiful and much needed organization! I love giving to an organization that not only helps families and children but follows them through their life. Giving them the resources and support, love and education needed to grow beyond that which may pose obstacles in their life. I love that they share stories and highlight people and families with inspiring stories and where they are now.
After experienced a big typhoon 8 months before I went to AoL in Philippines, to see the smile in the kids faces and to see eyes full of hope in the ILP program students, remembered me that we live once and that our lives are in our God, who takes care of each one of us.
I've experienced a full month of learning and sharing time with the Board, Staff, Children in and out of AoL. As I was able to see the great things happening, such as good students, the growth of the staff, the engagement of the Board, I also detected some areas of development. One of the biggest areas is the ILP program but I'm happy that during my time here, the AoL were able to hire someone to be the ILP coordinator.
The warm and kind people made me feel in home and we also shared many special moments: Devotions with the staff, family gathering, basketball games, Church time, etc.
It is important to tell that the new challenges that AoL is facing with the DSWD (Department of Social Work and Development) and their new rules is a matter of concern but I know that the staff and children are ready for next steps. I will continue to pray about this and any other issues.
In the images attached you will see some of the activities that the Kids at AoL and the ILP program realize just to show some Life Skills and day to day activities at the Center.
I thank God for the opportunity to visit and share at the AoL Philippines!!!
I flew to Nicaragua in 2010 and in 2014 to volunteer with my church. We felt welcomed and part of the family from the minute we came on campus. It was a time of laughter, hugs, fun games, parties for the kids, and celebrating the staff's hard work. I hope to one day return, but until then will continue to donate to the organization changing kids' lives.
There are many NGOs to support, but Arms of Love calls my husband and I family. We get to witness the changes in lives of the kids we support. I have pictures from when my sponsored kid was only 5 years old, and now he is a 20 year old young man! We have visited and created relationships with everyone, and seen firsthand how kids are cared for. I trust that my money is used for what it is intended for.
Mi nombre es Moisés Gámez, maestro de música y arte, y llegué a Brazos de amor hace poco más de un año, desde que llegué a este lugar supe que tenía una misión, de enseñar, de educar, de compartir arte y brindar mi talento a los y las niñas del centro.
Jamás pensé que en tan poco tiempo la misión que traía se transformaría en un aprendizaje, un aprendizaje continuo de amor, de fuerza, de fe, de esperanza. Y sigo aprendiendo, cada día más, de la solidaridad, de la entrega, de oportunidades, de cambios, pero sobre todo, de elevar nuestra humanidad hacia algo positivo, sumando esfuerzos para tranformar.
Siempre es un buen día para ayudar.
Hoy puedo decir que pertenezco a una familia que cuida con mucho amor y entrega a sus hijos e hijas y los impulsa a lograr sus sueños y metas de la mano de Dios.
We have had a wonderful experience with this nonprofit! My husband and I took a trip serve at AOL in Nicaragua for the first time in 2012 and have gone every summer possible thereafter. The children, staff and surrounding community have captured our hearts and enriched our lives in more ways than one, which is why we also cannot wait to travel their with our young children someday soon as well. We have had the opportunity to build great community there, we feel at home every time we go and want our children to experience it along with us. Additionally, it has been amazing to see the children at AOL grow in every way - education, faith, mental health, physically and more. Every time we go there it has been a completely different experience, but one thing that has not changed is the way the staff pours their heart and soul into the lives of the children and the surrounding community. They inspire us to be better parents, neighbors, coworkers, servants, etc. We feel honored to get to be part of it in a small way and come alongside to support this organization however we can.
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My husband and I have been serving with Arms of Love for the past 6 years. When we signed up for our first trip we did not know the impact this organization would have on our lives! We have since gone every summer to serve and work to find creative ways to fundraise for this organization throughout the year. We believe in this organization whole-heartedly as they work to provide a family-oriented and God-centered home for the kids they serve, both those who live on campus and in the surrounding community. The staff have demonstrated to us what it truly means to serve others and have inspired us in many ways to bring that type of servant-heart back to the U.S. and implement in our daily lives. We have been able to use our stories from serving and learning from the Nicaraguans to inspire our employers to invest in this organization as well! I never would have thought that we would be using a Hedge Fund and Pharmacy as a platform for this organization, but God has worked wonders in us and through as and we are excited to continue this relationship!
Faith, Hope, and Love. Arms of Love International is an organization embodying all three. The mission is the kids. So many of the children come from hopeless situations and for the first time in their lives they find hope and a sense of family within Arms of Love. Being able to see this transformation, is a journey that I have been blessed to experience over the years through hand written letters from the kids, hand drawn pictures, newsletters, and email updates. It is humbling to read a hand written letter from a child who has started with extremely disadvantaging circumstances praise Jesus, be filled with hope, and share their dreams for the future. The work this organization does is by definition selfless, compassionate, caring, and most important loving. Arms of Love not only meets the basic needs of their children when it comes to food, clothing, education, and shelter, they also teach them life skills like raising farm animals and gardening. Meeting so many needs, takes special people willing to pour out the love of Jesus. There is a very collaborative and focused effort from those in administration, to the house parent’s in raising well balanced kids. The foundation of Christ is evident as you see Him working in their lives. Arms of Love nurtures the Faith of these children and teaches them that refuge is found in Jesus. I have truly been blessed over the years, as a donor, to play a small part in the mission of Arms of Love. It has been a joy to watch the kids grow up into young Christ filled adults. The true measure of success. If you are looking for an organization that puts kids first, you can trust, and feel connected too, then I encourage you to join the Arms of Love International family.
Arms of Love has been one of the most amazing organizations I have ever volunteered for. I was able to visit the home in the Philippines and the home in Nicaragua. I left feeling as if I was part of the family and have continued to get updates on the children. I have loved the changes to their social media because now I get to see pictures more often and hear about exciting things going on in each country. If you’re thinking of volunteering or donating, Arms of Love is a must!
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Arms of Love provides a loving home for kiddos that need it the most. As a volunteer, I was able to learn not only about the work the organization does, but it allowed me to meet the kids, learn about their stories and their culture. It was a heartwarming experience and one that I will hold close to my heart forever. I appreciate the love they give the kids and the support they provide through the hard work and services the staff provide. It is unfortunate that these services are necessary but the world is lucky to have such hardworking, passionate and selfless staff members to keep the program going. Thank you!
I have actively been involved with Arms of Love International since 2009, first as a volunteer, and then as a child sponsor. I love the work of Arms of Love - they care for the kids in the orphanage as their own and work tirelessly for the kids to have a childhood and to heal from the atrocities they have survived. At any time I am able to call the staff in the U.S. and get updates about the kids I sponsor. It is not a large organization with general information - they know the kids personally, and can give detailed accounts of how they are doing. I trust this ministry and will continue to give to the work they are doing.
I've been part of the family of Arms of Love for more than 12 years. I started serving as an interpreter and I fell in love with the kids, the staff, and the vision in general. I became part of this family.
Arms of Love has been a blessing to so many over the years. It has given the opportunity of a home, a family, and a future to kids that otherwise would have been left on the streets without shelter, food, or hope. Over the years I have built strong friendships with kids and staff. During the time I have been part of this family I have volunteered, served as a part-time collaborator and nowadays I am serving as a board member. I am honored and bless to be part of Arms of Love and it is my prayer and hope that the good work being done for the children under its care can continue for many years to come.
I invite you to get to know and be part of this amazing organization!
Arms of Love for me is my second precious family where I felt loved and find my future goals in life. Back when I'm still a little girl who is hungry, seek food and no future, Arms of love family rescued me from poverty and put me in a fine little girl in there compound. There I found love, joy and happiness without worries of what will I eat in the next meal. There for the first time in my life, I knew the goodness and uncoditional love God has given to me. I sometimes wonder to myself that if what if Arms of Love didn't rescue me? What will happen to my physical, emotional and spiritual being? I never imagine God would have a great plan of my life. Growing at the Arms of Love, I learned a lot like doing chores initiatively and all the guidance that the foster parents taught me. Now, I am an Independent Living Program, where the Arms of Love discharge me to my biological parents, but still support me on my studies. Living outside Arms of Love is quiet hard, but thanks God I was able to survive and keep moving forward from the help of my foster parents guidance in Arms of Love. Now I'm a 2nd year college student and I'll prove to the people that I can make it with the help of Arms of Love guidance and especially to God above. Therefore, Arms of love for me is a home full of loved, a precious family of mine and will have a great future. I am forever thankful to what Arms of love has done in my life.
Over the last five years I have gotten the opportunity to volunteer and participate in the incredible work that AOL does. This organization provides at risk youth with the opportunity to find a forever home, a wholesome family, and a chance at living a successful and productive life. I've witnessed firsthand many success stories of children who have succeed in the AOL program and are now giving back to the organization.
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I have had the privilege and the honor to volunteer and form a part or what is the Arms of Love International family for some time now. This is not an organization but rather a large extended family. During the time I have been connected with AOL I have met incredible volunteers, donors, board member, staff, and children who are the definition of resilience. Watching the children grow and go on to have successful lives has truly been the best gift one could ask for. AOL has truly left an lasting impact in my life and has allowed me to connect with people who recognize the importance of supporting our youth.
I had the opportunity to serve at Arms of Love in Nicaragua and it was the best experience of my life. I was able to work alongside staff as they served children who have been through major traumas. The staff truly care for these children and work to provide them with any resources they can get their hands on. During my time, adults who had grown up at Brazos De Amor returned to visit this place they considered a safe home to say thank you to the staff for the impact they had on their life. I will never forget how dedicated Arms of Love is to setting up these children well for a successful future. I am continually reminded that homes like Arms of Love are only possible when people say yes to financially supporting their mission. I hope you read this and choose to donate to Arms of Love International with me to continue to provide a good home for children who need it.
I am Jecelle Dumadag and I became a part of Arms of Love Phils. Family when i was 5 years old that's way back 14 years ago. I just wanna share my story wholeheartedly, Being a part of AOL was really the best thing that happened to my life, My parents left me when i was still young, and right from then I never Know who Jesus is right until He gave me the opportunity to be part of the family. God has a greater plan for my life through Arms of Love, since then I grow up fearing the Lord in my life, I started leading worship when I was 15 Years old right until now. Arms of Love didn't just me a Home, Family, And a Future but arms of love show me the way to a stronger and bolder spiritual life with the Lord.
Im very thankful to the Lord and to my arms of love family who guide and support me in everything that I do, their unconditional love towards me even through rough and easy times they remained by my side. No matter what achievement I already achieved and will achieve in the future I dedicate everything to my Arms of Love family who inspire and support me through everything and to all the people who respond to the calling of the Lord in their life that made me possible to have a better life, a secured future and made it possible for me to go to school.
Hi my name is Geoconda Stefania solis Gómez, i lived in arms of love since i was 6 years old now i am 20 years old.It was and incredible experience. they provided me studies they received me with love i learned english rigth there Also i received computer class and music , i studied in a privated school all my elementary school and high school they gave me food , love and a home i felt like i was with my own family. Now days im in collage in my Second year of business administration and i still reciving a lot of Arms of love i am really grateful with all the support that they provided me. without this foundation i can't be the person that now i am.
Having served with Arms of Love International in Nicaragua for more than five years, I can soundly say they are among the best, both in their holistic community centered approach and in the measurable lasting impact on the children and surrounding communities.
I attribute the the early success in my career working with at risk populations, to the way serving with Arms of Love over the years has educated me. Both culturally, ethically, and heart wise, Arms of Love both empowers the kids it serves, as well as the volunteers who take part in the service. The community centered, holistic approach culturally educates outsiders to best practices in working with at risk populations. This cultural, ethical best practices education is invaluable and has continued to serve me later in life both personally and professionally.
Professionally I currently work for the International Rescue Committee (www.rescue.org) resettling unaccompanied minor refugees from central america. My time at AOL and their approach, heart for service, and relationships enabled me with the cultural sensitivity and tools to serve at risk populations in my profession. Years of college education don't compare to direct service work, when done right. Arms Of Love stands out among the few non profits that seek to make a sustainable impact by partnering with locals already doing the work.
Personally Arms of Love has blessed me with relationships for a life time, both with the kids in the community and the staff and caregivers in the surrounding cities. I can't under state the heart impact and passion that awoken personally through serving alongside them over the years. Seeing lasting impact and building life long friendships are just a few of the personal blessings from my time with Arms of Love.
Now as a professional with 5 years of experience in Central America, and several throughout all of South America - having encountered numerous NGOs, Non Profits, and Governmental programs; I can honestly say that Arms of Love's approach, sensitivity, heart, and passion stands out among the rest. The measure of success in this case, being the trajectory of the kids' lives changed forever.
I have been involved in one way or another with Arms of Love International since 2009. I started as a volunteer in 2009 when I spent 3 weeks at the home in Nicaragua. It was a blessing to see how the staff cared for the children and the volunteers that come and go. Since then, I became a donor and have watched some of the small children in 2009 grow into adults today. I went back with a team of volunteers in 2012 and it was like coming back to a second home. I have chosen to remain a donor, even during periods when my own financial situation was tight, because I believe in the mission and the people at this organization. I have seen first hand the purpose and love that these beautifully and wonderfully made children receive. I hope one day to visit the home in the Philippines and even bring my husband and daughter!
I cannot recommend this nonprofit enough for anyone wishing to volunteer or donate. May God bless everyone involved in this organization!
Arms of Love for me is
I arrived in my last year of high school, practically on the verge of a huge transition; since I did not know what would become of me at the end of that stage. I longed to go to university and study a professional career, but everything was uncertain ... until I came to Brazos de Amor, and they gave me the opportunity. I was heard.
6 years later, I learned the English language, I finished my journalism degree, and thank God I have a job.
My gratitude with Brazos de Amor is forever. That is why I emphasize that Brazos de Amor "is" ... because it was, is, and will be of great inspiration for me to come, in which I always hope to be for the great family of Arms of Love.
The support, the opportunities to get ahead, and the love that I always receive even though I am not in any internal program without expecting anything in return inspires me to do the same to contribute to a change in society. To close cycles not only of economic poverty, but also spiritual, and emotional.
Thank God, and all the people who have made it possible to change so many lives. We must continue for all those who walk around, yearning to be heard.
Blessings to all!
Well my experience with arms of love is absolutely awesome ! they always showing everything they do for the kids and the smile on there face is priceless.,my donation is not much but they appreciate my donation the same as big or small . God bless arms of love and give them health and a life time to continue helping the unfortunate kids .
We (my husband and I) visited Arms of Love International Nicaragua in the summer of 2014. We went expecting to "help" the children and staff. Instead, the children and staff showed us the true meaning of love and compassion. The next year we visited Arms of Love International Philippines. Again we were shown the true meaning of love and compassion. We were greeted with open arms and acceptance even before they got to know us. We have been back to Nicaragua once and have gone to the Philippines every year. We had a trip planned this year but due to the pandemic it has been postponed.
The staff and children all respect each other and work together to help improve each other. The children belong to a family at Arms of Love. Each orphanage has homes set up for each family and the children are reared in a family environment: the homes have a family setting where they eat as a family, worship as a family, do chores as a family and play games together as a family. When in the Phlippines for example each night we ate with a different family.
The other unique aspect of Arms of Love International: the children remain in the family forever - just like in a biological family environment. For example, Arms of Love International ensures the children are set up for success and help them move beyond "home". They help them find jobs, go to college, move beyond the home environment. They have a program called "Independent Living Program" where, once the children are of age, learn the next step before leaving home: how to live on their own.
It is not unusual to have those that have moved on to come back and visit and help with the younger children! What a wonderful, caring, God-centered organization!
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What a wonderful, God-centered led organization. We have been to Brazos de Amor twice and Arms of Love, Philippines five times.
Our first experience was with Brazos in 2014. We went with our church via OrphanNetwork. It was a wonderful experience. In fact, such a good experience we signed up to go to Arms of Love, Philippines the following year. And have returned every year to Arms of Love, Philippines with an extra trip to Brazos one year!
Living quarters are not up to the 5 star hotels in the U.S. but friendliness and outstanding, bend over backwards care for us was unbelievable. For example, I have difficulty with motion sickness and Arms of Love, Philippines were able to pick up on this and help me overcome this with natural remedies!
The children are amazing! They are given the opportunity to be children: they love to play games and simply be with adults. They love to show their love of God by singing songs and doing skits. It is so fun to see the love they have and the love the staff has for them.
The staff are also amazing! At the Arms of Love, Philippines, one of my favorite activities is eating dinner at one of the 4 homes (2 girls homes and 2 boys homes). The staff, with the help of the older children, prepare the meal. It is fun to eat with them and then sit around afterwards and talk. The children love to share and to ask questions.
Every year I am amazed at how much I receive! There is an over abundance of love that is poured out on us when visiting the Arms of Love and Bravos de Amor. We visit the orphanages to serve but I always come home feeling served.
Arms Of Love (AOL) is a life-changing organization for so many children in need. My wife and I have been donors for many many years. We have personally met the amazing staff and some of the incredible children they serve. The leadership team steadfastly remains mission-focused on supporting the needs of the children and the community. AOL is not just a name, it is a way of life for the staff and volunteers that serve the organization. They support the children through the best of times, and the worst of times, truly changing the trajectory of their lives. I whole-heartedly recommend AOL!
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We first got involved with Arms of Love International 3 to 4 years ago. The work they have done in both Nicaragua and the Philippines is amazing. Their focus on helping and educating children is so strong that they are literally building a learning center not just for the kids at Arms of Love but for the community surrounding them. The kids and the families that they touch always seem to do so well. This is an organization where every cent raised goes to the children’s home or the surrounding community. We have seen firsthand people’s money changing the lives of these beautiful children. In a time where other charities have big salaries and large overheads, Arms of Love is doing God’s work on a budget.
Arms of Love is exceptional and I am happy to be part of this organization. I have been a sponsor for over 10 years. I like how small they are. I can have a phone call with staff easily, and they know every kid personally. They call me part of their family and I feel it. My support matters.
Having been a sponsor for many years.. I’ve lost count hehe.. and visited both Brazos de Amor, Nicaragua and Arms of Love, Philippines.. this organization has brought so much joy in my heart and has always been an inspiration in my life. I love love love! kids and maybe I’ll adopt 500 kids someday. But for a start, I stumbled upon this organization awhile back (yes, Google and maybe work of God’s hands too.. hehe..)
As an organization they rescued these kids who needed a loving home. They have these amazing house parents that I get to meet and had gotten to know in both countries that gave them unconditional love and warmth and so much joy and belongingness and guidance as a family unit. This truly made me fall in love with Arms of Love even more. Family. God. Faith. We can be an instrument of God’s love in many many ways.. grand or small.. this can be one of them.. :) you can be a volunteer or a sponsor. And I would highly recommend Arms of Love and will even give you a phone call if you have any questions and if you ever plan to be a sponsor. :) Making a difference in a child’s life.. giving the child back the self worth that was once taken away from them and giving them the capacity to dream big.. surely makes my heart happy. I hope it can do wonders for your heart too.
And the many kids who’s hearts are waiting to be loved like God’s unconditional love for us. We can be life givers and change the world, one child at a time. ❤️
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08/02/2017 My story started when I moved to the United States from Bohol and I started my first job. At first with all these money earned and I have nobody to support nor have student loans to pay, I spent it on traveling, shopping, concerts, parties and bazillion shoes. ( I blame New York City jk) But then I felt the emptiness. I wasn't genuinely happy. I wanted to have meaning in life so I make it a promise to myself to give back a little of my hard earnings back home. I wanted to make a difference in this world. I was looking for an organization that strictly doesn't involve Philippine politics. And also doesn't involve family relatives back home. It's different when you give anonymously and sincerely. I know a little bit of Philippine politics since I grew up there and some of my relatives are politicians. Money sent from overseas doesn't really go directly to those who needs it. Let's just say they keep it for themselves or attached their names when they do have outreach missions. I found Arms of Love, Bohol. (via Google) I Thank God for Google. hehe. They have an orphanage back in my hometown of Bohol where I grew up and it is based in Colorado. They shelter orphans who were abused and mistreated and who doesn't have a loving home. They put them through good schools in my province. Not just public schools but pretty good private schools in Bohol. And the Arms of Love kids in school are excelling in both curricular and extracurricular activities. But what I'm very much in love with Arms of Love International is that they have house parents who acts as their mom and dad and as a role model. The boys have house parents. The girls have house parents. These kids are surrounded with so much love and support by these house parents. Also, I super love the fact that they have Bible studies. The Arms of Love family teach them about God. That.. made me even more in love with the community. I was drawn immediately to the inspiring idea so signed up to be a sponsor. I've known Gele through them. The girl I sponsored. I think I was 23 and she was 9. She's like my little sister. Throughout the years of writing letters our friendship grew. She's in college now. Full of light and love. I love receiving her letters about her school adventures from grade school to high school and her daily life growing up at Arms of Love and her relationship with God and I love the fact that Arms of Love is centered around Christ. These kids have Jesus in their hearts. No matter what life throws at you, I truly believe if you have God at the center of it all, you can face every struggles and challenges with a smile and even a giggle.
I lived in the US for 11 years now.. turning 12. I've only visited Arms of Love Bohol once because every time I go there I make time for my relatives and friends in Tagbilaran City, Cebu and Manila and in the neighboring countries. Next time I'll give a week or two to stay home in my hometown of Bohol and hang out with the kids since my mom and dad are moving back. I love the fact that I can speak visayan to the kids. And they'll laugh because I speak very much Bol-anon visayan. It feels home to them one of their sponsors is "taga-Bohol" (from Bohol).
I also went to Arms of Love, Nicaragua. I was friends with Geoff on Facebook and for some reason my card gets expired or declined so he always get in touch. hehe. So when he posted that he's going to Nicaragua. I signed up for it without hesitation and without knowing anybody. I also have struggles in my own life that I needed this exotic-I-dare-you-to-go-Anna-Lynn getaway. I don't belong to a church family here in New Jersey (maybe I should do that). But I do go to mass every Sunday. And I do think God always has my back that He brought me to Nicaragua. I fell in love with Arms of Love, Nicaragua. The kids' warm hugs and laughter and playfulness cured my sad soul. I love that we had Bible sharing everyday with the girls and they incorporate it with their daily experiences. It was so much fun going there. Arms of Love International brought my faith back. As much as we teach them about God and Faith ( Vineyard Church of the Rockies is amazing), they return taught me about genuine love and selflessness. So being a sponsor at Arms of Love is a blessing. It gave my life meaning. And I hope in my own little way, I can be a light and of service to the Arms of Love International both in Bohol and Nicaragua. Also an inspiration to those who would love to sponsor these amazing kids. :)
xoxo
Anna Lynn Racho
Arms Of Love International USA.
Brazos De Amor in Nicaragua.
I'm one of the very first kids that had the honor to be part of the program. I can't explain with words how my life has changed, coming from the street, without education, family and a future to face with many other challenges.
Arms of love, is the family dream, home, life and future that millions of kids today on the street are seeking for. It's an unimaginable dream that Arms Of Love turn into a reality oportunitty for any kid that is part of the program.
AOL, provide home, family and future opportunities, but also guide you and train you to be a leader in the society.
I had the great honor to be valued, loved and guided by AOL. My family.
I graduated from one of the best college in Nicaragua, for a short time, I had the opportunity to develop my own business and I had the honor to contributed serving to my own country.
I'm happily married for 3 years today, I moved to Colorado and we have a cute puppy, her name is Reyna (Queen) she is a malamute over 120 pounds.
Today I have the honor to be one of the Board member for Arms Of Love International. I can't describe how bless I feel, it's like if yesterday I was abandoned, surviving on the streets and today I have more family than never before but also as a new member of AOL, I wouldn't never believe it if somebody would it say it to me 10 or 15 years ago.
As well, one of the Board member for Love Forward. https://www.loveforward.org/ scholarship program, in Nicaragua, India and the Philippines.
Please, let me introduce you our book Love Forward, also leaded by Robert Benson, the creater of Arms of Love Intarnational, please follow up our book, to read some of the most incredible story, any of these wouldn't never be possible without Arms Of Love International.
I invite you to join this amazing organization changing people's life, provideing hope, family and future to hundred of kids needing it today.
I can't describe how thankful and willing to give my best back serving and loving these in needs.
We need you to empower and secure more kids opportunities under Arms Of Love international.
More thank thankful for the wonderful people that serves AOL and its day by day loving and caring for our kids in the Philippines and Nicaragua.
Blessings
Having been a volunteer and donor over the last 10 years I have seen the positive impact that Arms of Love has had on the lives of the children they serve. They continually walk through all seasons of life with their children and community members. They show compassion by meeting physical, spiritual and emotional needs. Being a volunteer changed the course of my life. Now being a donor I get to participate in them forever changing the foundation of their kids futures. Changing the future of Nicaragua one student at a time. Arms of Love is a top notch organization in my book and I will continue to volunteer and donate as long as I am able.
Arms of Love (AOL) International moves beyond the traditional sense of the term non-profit, operating more like a family unit to support each child they serve in learning healthy coping skills to live their best life possible. Having volunteered for AOL since 2013, I have witnessed first hand how they are coming alongside communities in both Nicaragua and the Philippines to implement forward thinking intervention approaches and working to end cycles of trauma and poverty. With relationship building at the core of AOL’s identity they are not only positively impacting the lives of those they serve but also actively changing the lives of those who serve with them, by breaking down cross-national barriers and emphasizing our inherent need for human connection and community in order to solve the world’s ever evolving challenges. It is due to the organization’s human centered approach that inspired me to pursue a career in grass-roots level work that celebrates cultural diversity and global collaboration, recognizes people by their strengths, and provides opportunities for folks to build both their personal and professional capacities. My time as a volunteer has been invaluable and ultimately prepared me for acceptance into one of the US’s top ranked social work graduate programs, at the University of Chicago. Their work is transformative, and most importantly inspiring as they put the needs and values of their youth first and work to foster a new generation of the world’s leaders. If you are looking to get involved and better your life while positively impacting the lives of others I would recommend you get connected with this truly amazing organization.
Hello everyone, I am one of the Arms of Love sponsored child way back 2005 until 2018. Thanking this Nonprofit organization is not enough, thus they rest assured that rendered services were given towards their client constituents wholistically. I will always be also thankful to all social workers who was once employed in this institution and happend to manage my case, thank you so much for your intervention plans, your work was not that easy compared to other professions. And now my dream came true because you were once became my inspiration, now I can fully understand what is a Social Worker and how hard to be a social worker. Number one lesson that I have learned is that, acceptance of your client no matter what it takes no more competing, because this is one of the Core Values of Social Work though.
#Genina M. Batoon, RSW proud from one of Arms of Love family❤
I am Gele Marie Ediong, 23 years old. I've been in Arms of Love Philippines since I was.
Arms of Love truly lives its own name - Loving Arms. They have sheltered me, love me, nurture me, and support me with what I needs&wants. I have finished my college because they are present, available and reliable every time I need them.
They provided everything that I need when I was in college. They encouraged me to excel and do my best during my years with them.
Arms of Love have a big part of my life than any person I've met. I couldn't help but be thankful and grateful for the sponsors, partners and donors that made it possible for me [and us] to hope for bigger dreams & slowly step into it.
Right now, I volunteered staying in the Arms of Love as an intern to help with holding activities, experience work ethics, inspire and talk with the children & staff currently in the Arms of Love and many things I can help. I decided to stay for few months in Arms of Love before looking for a job after my graduation because I know that there are things that the admins, staff & parents cannot relate. I want them to know what's really inside the circle as children. I knew some of our weaknesses, strengths, the things we lacked attention and focus. They were glad about it and I was happy to be able to speak in behalf of the children.
I would always be glad to come back to Arms of Love to help inspire the many kinds of children [present & incoming]. I love them so I pray for them everytime, everyday. I hope they would also appreciate Arms of Love's vision, mission and goals for them. Some of us might not be able to see the good things Arms of Love did for us, but I knew they'll appreciate it in a fewer years passed.
Thank you, Arms of Love❤
May God Bless Arms of Love and the Family.
Who knew a college spring break trip 20 years ago would still bring goodness today?
I spent a week at the orphanage of Arms of Love Nicaragua in 2001 as a college senior. I saw children's lives transformed, as they came off the streets and were given a home and a family.
When I sought meaningful adventure for my husband and four children a decade and a half later, I returned and was awed by the continuity of this home and family. Though the staff has grown, the psychologist remains the same. One of the children I'd played with in the orphanage serve at Arms of Love served as our able and skilled translator and guide during our month there.
The mission of Arms of Love expands beyond the children who live there. They also tutor and equip the most-at-risk children in their community.
I now serve on the board alongside Juan, another child I met during that spring break trip years ago. Now married, he lives in Colorado and shines as an example of the importance of this place.
Just as the love of a family lasts after childhood, Arms of Love commits to caring its charges beyond their years at the home. This isn't an institution; it's where Jesus' love intersects a great need.
We are thankful for such a great organization! Several years ago our oldest son, now 20, chose to sponsor a young boy in Nicaragua who was similar in age to him. It was a blessing to watch the boys connect through letters and encourage each other as they grew up. Years later, our youngest is now sponsoring a kiddo in the Philippines who is also the same age as him. The people who are leading this organization truly care for the kids. Thanks for all you do.
Hi I'm one of the Arms of Love Philippines kids who already finished my going to college.
Arm of love helps me a lot.
I was once a victim of rape abused by my step dad, because of that I put hatered to my stepdad, I felt that I don't have a good future anymore, and I felt no one loves me, but because of Arms of love they gave me a good future, they transform my life.
That's why Arms of Love Philippines is my home and family.
Today I'm a License teacher and one of the member of the board trustees of Arms of Love Philippines.
I'm also tutoring the kids of Arms of Love Philippines...
I'm so thankful the people behind the Arms of love International and Arms of love .
-Anzelie-
Arms of Love has been a part of my life for almost 3 years and it continues to evolve. This year, I had the privilege of traveling to both the Philippines and Nicaragua locations. I was able to combine my new found profession of videography with my passion for service during each trip. While in-country, I was able to document the fabulous work that is being done at each program with photographs and videos. Additionally, I was able to create a promotional video that will be used for Arms of Love International's marketing/outreach efforts.
This past spring, I also made a personal commitment to sponsor a child. Arms of Love has done so much for me by way of feeding my soul and fulfilling my desire to serve. I am excited to see where this partnership will be in the next 3 years.
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Arms of Love International is an organization I truly admire. I visited the Philippines location in January 2017 and still communicate with most of the children I met there. I hope to return within the next few months and bring a team with me to experience the great work that Arms of Love continues to do for our children.
Hey guys, my name is Cairo and this time I want to share how grateful and blessed I am to be part of this awesome organization;
Everything started about eight years ago when I met these beautiful children and loving staff from Arms of Love, I just fall in love for what I saw and the way they were taking care of the children, my first role was as an interpreter, which was fantastic because it allowed me to know deeper their heart and hope and realize a different point of view of our lives on earth, know their needs, fears, happiness, almost everything about them.
Over time I have seen so many successes with our kids and teens, being good students in school and college, hard worker, so in this Home, as I love to call, Arms of Love, learned by one of the kids who used live there when he gave his testimony, he said "Before I came here I didn't have a house but now I have a home" that impacted my life, do you understand? he was about 6 years old and knew the difference between a house and home.
Now I am part of the Board Member cause I want to see more happy faces, just like Sarita (See my picture), great citizens, healthy families and of course, help them overcome their issues and guess what?.... You can be part of this marvelous journey giving your love and compassion for them.
Thank you so much and see you in our Home, enjoying and loving our children.
I continue to be amazed by the work Arms of Love does. They love all of the children, even the most challenging, as their own. Kids who have lived their entire lives feeling unloved meet Jesus and a loving family here. I also enjoyed seeing the community program while in Nicaragua. Kids come to eat, learn, and play. I liked that they also invite community parents to be part of everything. Great organization and I am excited to visit again.
I have traveled to Arms of Love, Nicaragua three times and can confidently say that I will be back without a doubt. Arms of Love and the staff are simply incredible; truly people who live every day dependent on God and where He is leading them. I have seen how Arms of Love has changed lives and continues to do so every day. Every child deserves to be loved and cared for, to know that love and hope exist, and to experience the change that the children at Arms of Love are fortunate to know.
I learned about Arms of Love International through the Director of the non profit. I learned that the organization works in both Nicaragua and the Philippines. Having heard that Nicaragua is the second poorest country in the Western Hemisphere ,I decided to visit the work of AOL there. Through the civil un rests and extreme poverty, many children end up living on the streets and becoming victims of predators. There is hunger and sickness because of the living conditions. Arms of Love provides a safe place for those orphaned and those abandoned. I decided to partner with the organization about 8 years ago. I believe in the work they are doing! They feed, clothe, educate and love the children in their homes. They become family and take them from a young age and launch them into adult hood after finishing college or a trade school. We have so much , contributing to Arms of Love is a great opportunity to give to those that have so little.
We have been supporting Arms Of Love for several years. My wife and I started supporting after we saw someone we knew that gave up any time off or non designated income to travel to Nicaragua to work with the children. My wife had the opportunity to travel to Nicaragua to find out what the mission was about. She came home having her heart stolen by two of the older boys . We became sponsors to them with the desire to give them an opportunity to not just go through primary school but through higher education . We hope that they can rise above the poverty level that is most prevalent in Nicaragua. They have communicated with us over the years through letters and pictures . They are more than someone we send money to support, rather someone that we love and pray for. They are doing well and growing into their futures.
My first interaction with Arms of Love was at the AOL Philippine’s campus for approximately 2 hours. In those two hours I fell in love with the work and mission of the organization. The kids were so fun loving and accepting of me when I visited. I had to go back and did a few months later and spent an entire week with the kids which still was not enough time. After I returned I held onto all my ties with AOL. I hope that in my future I can continue to serve and help the organization and kids in anyway I can. This organization is changing the lives of the kids and those that experience the work of the organization.
I first got involved with Arms of Love as a volunteer. I liked to serve abroad and learned about a church-led trip. Once I visited Arms of Love in Nicaragua, I became a monthly sponsor of two boys. The work that the staff does is humbling. They love the children as their own, and all of the kids are well-cared for. Arms of Love is like a family, and the kids receive good education, counseling, and incredible opportunities for their future. I have been a sponsor for 10 years, and will continue to dedicate funds to this organization.
I have been involved with Arms of Love for 15 years and often been encouraged by the amazing turnaround in the lives of the children gathered by these orphanages. But when I became involved with the Executive Team of the Board and began to make site visits, I was overwhelmed with the incredibly impressive level of care the staff offers to the kids. I left each location with a renewed commitment to Arms of Love and a tremendous respect for the dedicated workers. Arms of Love truly transforms children's lives!
Where do I begin with Arms of Love International!? To say that this organization is a trailblazer in the world of non-profits would be an understatement. Not only have a raised money on their behalf and donated. But I have been to both sites (Bohol, Philippines and Jinotepe, Nicaragua. The way they treat the children and their fellow employees absolutely blew me away. The bonds that get formed within all participants are simply beautiful to witness. Not only did I feel safe, cared for, and prepared. But after a while it did not even feel like volunteer work anymore. It felt like I was apart of the family. I am a proud Arms of Love supporter and would recommend them to anyone looking for a TRUE service experience mixed with cultural education. I could go on for days about how much of an honor it is to say I associate with them. The things I've learned over the years, the memories I've created, the life changing epiphany's. I owe so many of them to Arms of Love International. And for that, I am forever grateful.
I volunteered on several occasions for Arms of Love in Nicaragua. This is an incredible non-profit that in making important strides in individual treatment for children living in the homes in Nicaragua and for children and families in the community development program. Arms of Love helps volunteers to develop a love for the history and culture of Nicaragua and for the stories of the children and families in their programs. This is a reputable and respectful organization that does important work internationally.
Arms of Love International (AOL) is more than a non-profit organization. It truly is a community of individuals who care about the well-being of our next generation of leaders. I have been connected with the organization going on 6 years now, and I continue to be amazed by the great work the AOL staff is doing. They are extremely intentional in their efforts to cater to youth in need and there is a heartfelt aspect in all that they do. I have volunteered for the organization in both Nicaragua and the Philippines and have always been welcomed with the upmost hospitality and care. AOL provides folks from around the world the opportunity to connect across cultural differences and similarities to establish relationships that allow people to learn and grow alongside each other. This is the beauty of AOL, because the work they are doing is effecting change and catering to the root causes of poverty and trauma rather than providing band aid solutions.
I was with Arms of Love International Nicaragua for the first time in the summer of 2017. It was an amazing place that gives their staff and youth the best opportunities. They do this by creating resources to work and engage with the youth members and assist them with their growth as an individual. Everyone works hard to give the youth a strong foothold for their future and create a place where they can call home. The staff was very welcoming to volunteers and works well to help volunteers create constructive projects and leave with good standing. Their facilities are good for in country staff, Volunteers, and youth members. It is a fulfilling place that creates a felling of true change for the individuals that they serve. I hope to return as a volunteer with this organization and would highly recommend it to others looking for a satisfying and rewarding experience.
If you are thinking about volunteering abroad, this is absolutely the best organization to partner with! You will feel so comfortable at Arms of Love that you will never want to leave. This authentic and trustworthy organization deeply values each volunteer. They have extensive experience with volunteer teams of all shapes and sizes. They specialize in using the talents you have to address the many needs of their organization. Some examples of service projects have included construction projects, gardening, assisting in the classrooms, taking inventory on donations, and leading devotionals. There is also time spent planning and leading daily activities for the kids. You can also couple your visit with other outreach projects and team travel days to see and learn more about the country.
My fist volunteer experience in Nicaragua was so profoundly impactful that I now volunteer at Arms of Love every year, both state side and in country. I also hope to soon visit their sister location in the Philippines. The staff, children, and community and incredibly welcoming. The country is beautiful. The experience is revitalizing!
Arms of Love is a nonprofit like no other.
Arms of Love does an incredible job of immersing themselves in the culture of Nicaragua to partner alongside culture and community to instill hope and build future. I was moved by the relationships built between staff, volunteers, children and community that I returned to Nicaragua twice. I have seen the pure dedication that the staff both stateside and internationally have to creating a warm loving family for the children in residential programs and a welcoming, supportive community for the children in the community program.
The staff and volunteers of Arms of Love go above and beyond their job duties to advocate and care for the children at Arms of Love. This is a nonprofit worth your time and attention.
I've spent time at the Arms of Love property in Jinotepe, Nicaragua. The organization really has a heart for kids and provides them a safe place to be just that, kids! The educational support, homelike environment, and opportunities to grow in their faith all speak to Arms of Love wanting the best for the kids.
The facilities are well run and the volunteer/team space is very accommodating. Come with a lot of energy and a willing heart, and there's no end to projects and people with whom to engage.
Arms of Love is an amazing organization. They make a huge impact on children, families, and communities in both Nicaragua and the Philippines. I have been a volunteer with Arms of Love for 3 years, working both state side and internationally. I love this organization!
Wonderful organization whose mission is nothing short of demonstrating compassionate and unconditional love to the children who enter their homes.
My husband and I started sponsoring two kids at Arms of Love about 2 years ago. Recently, we spent two weeks at Arms of Love in the Philippines, so we were able to see all of their work firsthand AND meet our sponsor kids. Awesome, in a word! The kids are being raised in a family environment, provided with an education, and otherwise cared for with excellence. We love the relationships we are able to have with our sponsor kids and all the kids at AOL. The work they're doing is so needed and so amazing. I love the personal contact we have with AOL being that they're a smaller organization.