Aging Out Program
With little support from the government, orphans who age out of traditional care are often left on their own to navigate adulthood. Housing and a small stipend are provided for a season; however, that housing is often uninhabitable due to neglect. With no safe place to call home, and no one to offer encouragement and guidance, many orphan graduates fall victim to criminal activity, sexual exploitation and trafficking, and drug abuse. Those who want to rise above the statistics find themselves struggling to trust anyone because of their past experiences. The needs of orphans who age out are many. Even the basics like food and clothing are difficult for some young adults to obtain. The lack of educational support keeps some from completing vocational training or attending college, and medical and dental care are often ignored due to lack of finances. Because of the lack of housing, many orphans who age out receive rooms in communal apartments with other graduates they don’t know. Safety is an issue. Orphan Outreach’s goal is to help as many of these young adults as possible, providing them a safe, nurturing support system that will enable them to become thriving adults filled with purpose. This often includes helping to find or create safe housing, providing guidance on the best path for education, and working through their legal rights as an orphan. The assistance goes even further, teaching the graduate how to manage a budget, shop for and prepare meals, and develop healthy relationships with others. Orphan Outreach began our aging out program in 2009, after spending time with the young men and women to understand their needs, dreams, and very real fears. Candidates for the graduate program are identified while they are in the orphanage, and a personalized transition plan is designed for each graduate to help them learn to live independently. Orphan Outreach staff and volunteers come alongside each orphan graduate to provide the emotional, physical, and spiritual support they need. Resources are provided through sponsorship and individual support of urgent needs like home repairs, medical and dental care, and tuition. Mission teams work with local volunteers to help orphan graduates through mentorship and tutoring.
Katya in Russia
Gender: Female
Grade: GRAD
DOB: 8/10/89
As you may know, Katya lived at the orphanage from 2004 to 2009. She did not go to college because shortly after graduation, in 2010, she gave birth to her son, Timur. She still works at the shipyard factory as a mounter and often takes extra shifts to help with her finances. She is well-respected at work and remains happy with the job she has. Katya received a subsidy from the state to buy a two-bedroom apartment, where she and Timur live. Katya and her son are really close and spend their free time together. Their favorite things to do are walk around the town, go hiking, and cook together. Timur is a big help around the house, where he is given weekly household chores. Katya is a wonderful mother to him and a great friend to all. In the next few years, she hopes to raise her son well, help him in his studies, and pay off her mortgage loan for her apartment. We have no doubt Katya can accomplish her goals, as others often describe her as brave, cheerful, and helpful. Though she is brave, she is also quick to lean on the community around her to give her parenting advice and encouragement in her faith, especially when parenting becomes difficult. Please pray for God to give Katya wisdom and strength in raising her son.
Sponsorship Code: RUGRAD-16630
Ira in Russia
Gender: Female
Grade: GRAD
DOB: 8/2/92
As you may know, Ira was placed in the orphanage at age eleven when her mother died and her father could not raise her. Though this was the case, her father still came every weekend to take her home and spend time with her. After graduating from the orphanage, Ira moved to college where she received a degree in law. She still works at a savings bank in the credit department, issuing loans for cars. Though Ira loves her job, she dreams of finding a job with an even better income to provide for herself. She recently inherited a room in a building in downtown St. Petersburg and would love to start a family to share it with. Those who know Ira best say that she is a calm, helpful, and funny person. She often spends her free time reading, writing short stories, watching television series, and cooking. Ira asks that you would pray for her health and wisdom from God. Please also pray for continued growth in her faith.
Sponsorship Code: RUGRAD-16636
Katya in Russia
Gender: Female
Grade: GRAD
DOB: 8/24/88
After graduating from the orphanage, Katya became a cashier. Shortly after, she started school at St. Petersburg College of Tourism and Business. She successfully graduated in 2014 and entered the Academy of Tourism. This led to her job as an administrator in a sales room. Katya continued working until 2019, then stayed home when she had her son, Arseny. She loves her son and cares for him well in their one-room apartment. When Arseny went to kindergarten in 2022, Katya started working remotely from home to provide for their family. She still has this job and is enjoying it, though she would be delighted to find a job that has higher pay. Katya recently met a young man who lives in Moscow and works for the same company. They are now dating and he is looking to move to St. Petersburg soon. Katya is excited and hopeful to start a new relationship! Please be in prayer for her as she navigates this new relationship and continues to care for Arseny. Katya also asks that you would pray for good health and wisdom from the Lord.
Sponsorship Code: RUGRAD-16639
Vanya in Russia
Gender: Male
Grade: GRAD
DOB: 1/20/94
Vanya is know by those around him to be open-minded, friendly, and eager to help. He lived at the orphanage since birth, never knowing his parents. Though he was born with hydrocephalus, he was able to have a life-changing surgery at age six. When Vanya was eight, he was adopted into a loving family. Soon after, he started attending school, where he grew to love literature and history. He wanted to help other children find their love for education, so he went to vocational school to become an elementary English teacher. Vanya began looking for jobs and currently works as a mathematics tutor, teaching both in-person and online classes. He got his math teacher certification in September and is excited to continue helping young learners. Apart from studying, Vanya started going to weekly Bible classes, later joined his church, and got baptized! He actively sought God and fellowship in the Christian community - something we praise God for! When he is not at church, he can be found training dogs, practicing sports, and learning English. Please be in prayer for Vanya's health, a stable job, and success in his future.
Sponsorship Code: RUGRAD-22549
Dasha in Russia
Gender: Female
Grade: GRAD
DOB: 4/26/94
Dasha became an orphan at age 11 and lived at the orphanage until 2013. Her mother passed away and father's rights were terminated. She graduated from the School of Art and Restoration, as well as the College of Water Resources, both with great grades. She then entered the institute. Not long after, Dasha married Alexei. Together, they had a precious little girl named Valeria. Though the couple is now divorced, Dasha is still able to take great care of Valeria and loves her deeply. They live together in a one-room apartment, which Alex bought them. Currently, Dasha works as a manager in a construction company. She and her daughter come to our meetings, which is held for mothers with children, where they are incredibly loved. Dasha's biggest dreams are to be a good mother and help her daughter with her studies. We have no doubt she will accomplish this! When she has free time, Dasha enjoys taking photos and playing with dogs. She asks that you pray for God's wisdom in raising a daughter and in all actions.
Sponsorship Code: RUGRAD-22589
Yulia in Russia
Gender: Female
Grade: GRAD
DOB: 10/6/92
Yulia is a calm, open, and friendly graduate of the Tikhvin Orphanage. She lived there since she was ten years old. After graduating from the orphanage, she started to attend teacher training college, but did not complete it, as her first child was born! Around this time, the state provided Yulia with a one-room apartment, but she went to live in a different city, where she rents a house with her husband. She had two more sons and they all live together. Yulia got a job as an assistant teacher in a kindergarten classroom, but has recently transitioned jobs to become a cashier in a shopping center. Her ultimate dream is to have a permanent high-paying job in the future. In her free time, Yulia enjoys cooking and spending time with family. Please pray for financial security and good jobs for Yulia and her husband. Please also pray for her health, faith, and God's wisdom as she navigates being a wife and mother.
Sponsorship Code: RUGRAD-23146
Alyona in Russia
Gender: Female
Grade: GRAD
DOB: 2/6/93
Alyona's mother passed away when she was seven, so she was placed in the orphanage. After graduation, she went to vocational school to learn to become a chef and a confectioner. Alyona loved working with food, as it gave her a creative outlet! She also enjoys listening to music and embroidering ribbons. Though she loves to do anything creative, her biggest passions are her daughters, Daira and Sophia. They all live together in an apartment she received from the state. Alyona is still learning to adjust to life as a single mother after losing her husband in a car accident. Both of her kids are now in school, which makes life both easier and harder on her. Her oldest daughter, specifically, has struggled with losing her father, which makes going to school difficult. Alyona and the girls are starting to feel better and are continuing to improve as a family. In the next few years, she dreams of securing a steady job to provide for herself and her girls. We have no doubt she can do this, as others describe her as hardworking, friendly, and calm. Please pray for strength and peace for Alyona. Please also pray for a steady job and bright future.
Sponsorship Code: RUGRAD-23150
Andrey in Russia
Gender: Male
Grade: GRAD
DOB: 1/9/00
Andrey grew up at the orphanage from a young age. He was always a hardworking and inquisitive boy. For a long time, he has had a passion for the arts, specifically theatre and music. He even got to participate in "Angels from Abroad" in Dallas one year. Andrey was previously at school at St. Petersburg Chemical and Pharmaceutical Academy. He did well in school and received a certificate in biology in 2022. He currently works as a laboratory assistant but dreams of continuing his studies. It did not work out for him to be in school this year, so he will continue to work and will apply to the university again next summer. His ultimate dream is to work for a pharmaceutical company someday! Soon, Andrey's apartment will be privatized. He plans to work on fixing it with our help. He also stays in touch with his former guardian and is going to help fix her apartment, as it will be left for him as an inheritance. Though Andrey has little free time, he often spends it learning foreign languages, playing the piano and cello, and studying microbiology. He asks that you would pray for his health and God's help in study and in life. Please also pray for Andrey as he works, studies, and applies to the university again.
Sponsorship Code: RUGRAD-23522
Anton in Russia
Gender: Male
Grade: GRAD
DOB: 2/21/99
Anton moved into the orphanage in 2005, as his parents could no longer care for him. His parents, who loved him and visited him at the orphanage, have now passed away. Even through this, he has continued to persevere and find success in life! Anton graduated from the Vocational School of Service and Industrial Technologies and currently works at an internet shop delivering goods. He also has a part-time job as a waiter in a Japanese restaurant. Anton cannot afford to rent an apartment in the city, so he moved back to his apartment in the suburbs. His apartment needs repairs, which he hopes to make happen soon. Anton plans to enter university again next year, so he is spending his free time studying this year. His ultimate dream is to be a graphic designer someday! Please be in prayer for continued provision for Anton, as well as for his health, work, and future.
Sponsorship Code: RUGRAD-23802
Sveta in Russia
Gender: Female
Grade: GRAD
DOB: 4/6/00
Sveta lived at the orphanage from age 5 to age 15. When she was 15, Sveta's mother took her from the orphanage to avoid paying child support. Even through difficult relationships with her family, Sveta remained optimistic and determined. She later became an orphan again, which gave her the opportunity to receive an apartment and an education. She did very well in school and started at the technical school, studying economics and accounting. She graduated with honors and wanted to get an even higher education. Because of this, Sveta decided to go back to school to study psychology and will have entrance exams soon. She hopes to find a job to be able to pay for half of her tuition. When Sveta is not doing schoolwork, she can be found doing upkeep on her apartment, growing plants on her balcony, and playing with her cat. Please be in prayer for Sveta as she takes her entrance exams and works toward a degree. Please also pray for her health, faith, and overall wellbeing.
Sponsorship Code: RUGRAD-23803
Tolya in Russia
Gender: Male
Grade: GRAD
DOB: 1/1/98
Tolya has lived in an orphanage since 2015. Though he faced many obstacles at a young age, he persevered, entering technical school to be a car mechanic. He currently works on the railway as an electrician. He is a hard worker and leaves a positive impact on those he meets. Others often describe Tolya as well-mannered, polite, kind, and friendly with others. While he works, his wife, Alyona, takes care of their baby girl. They live modestly, but are happy with the life they have. Tolya is grateful for the support from Orphan Outreach, especially the groceries, utility bills, and baby clothes that are paid for. He and Alyona live together in an apartment provided by the state and continue to work to care for it well. In the next few years, Tolya hopes to make a name for himself in his career to adequately provide for his family. He also wants to do a good job raising his daughter. When he has free time, Tolya enjoys being with his family, playing soccer, and listening to music. He asks that you would pray for help from the Lord in achieving his life goals. Tolya also asks that you would pray for him to be a good husband and father.
Sponsorship Code: RUGRAD-23804
Yaroslav in Russia
Gender: Male
Grade: GRAD
DOB: 4/18/00
Yaroslav graduated from the orphanage in 2017 and entered vocational school to learn carpentry. Those who know him best often describe him as a cheerful, servant-hearted, and open-minded young man. He has a younger sister, who was adopted by a family in Texas, and a twin brother. Because their sister is so far away, Yaroslav and his brother worry about her wellbeing. Yaroslav continues to struggle with his developmental delays and learning disabilities. Living independently is hard for him. He has switched many jobs already and does not work for more than two weeks at the same place. However, he remains determined and is currently working at the supermarket. Yaroslav loves to come to our meetings and spend time with other graduates and staff members. He hopes to secure a high-paying job, strengthen his financial position, and start a family in the near future. In his free time, Yaroslav loves to bike and take care of animals, specifically horses. Please pray that God would give Yaroslav wisdom for his finances, for a job that interests him, and for his overall wellbeing.
Sponsorship Code: RUGRAD-23805
Kristina in Russia
Gender: Female
Grade: GRAD
DOB: 10/11/97
As you may know, Kristina was placed into the orphanage at a young age, as her biological father was unknown and her mother was not well. Not long after, at age five, she was adopted from the orphanage. At age sixteen, Kristina was no longer wanted or cared for by her adoptive family, so she was returned to the orphanage. However, she has met all of these hardships with optimism. Kristina is an incredible young girl who is often described as friendly, sincere, and sweet. She is kind and selfless to all around her and has a big heart for young kids. Kristina successfully completed nine grades of school and found a love for basketball while there. In 2022, she completed her pedagogical studies and started working as a teacher with kids in the Tikhvin Orphanage. This was her way of giving back and pursing her passion. Kristina recently got married and gave birth to a daughter. She stays home with the baby, while her husband works to provide for them. Recently, they took out a mortgage for a two-room apartment and are looking forward to making it comfortable to raise a family. In the next few years, Kristina hopes to become an even better wife and mother, and desires to go back to work at the orphanage. She asks that you would pray for the protection and help of the Lord in her life.
Sponsorship Code: RUGRAD-23810
Olesya in Russia
Gender: Female
Grade: GRAD
DOB: 5/8/91
Olesya grew up in the orphanage, graduated from vocational school, and became a cook. Shortly after, she met her husband, Ruslan, who changed her life for the better. They make each other stronger each day. Together, they had a beautiful daughter, who is now in first grade, and live in a one-room apartment, which they bought. Olesya not only cares for her own family, but she loves all who enter her home, including her nephews, which she helps take care of. She is kind and caring, wanting to help anyone who needs it. Ruslan is also amazing and works hard to provide for the family. Olesya now has a job as a manager at a pet store and sometimes helps Ruslan with his work, as well. In her free time, Olesya does needlework and likes to do design projects. Her goals in life are to receive a stable income and be a good mom and wife. Please be in prayer for God's provision for Olesya, Ruslan, and their daughter.
Sponsorship Code: RUGRAD-23811
Olya in Russia
Gender: Female
Grade: GRAD
DOB: 11/14/95
Olya was raised in the orphanage since 2004 and is known to be a kind, funny, and diligent young woman. Her positive traits led her to success in college, where she obtained a degree to become a teacher. Olya took a break from her job as a teacher to raise her daughter, Eva, but has now returned to work as a kindergarten teacher. She and her husband, Sasha, are proud of their daughter for starting school. Olya's greatest desire is to be a good wife and mom! Others say that she is very caring and attentive to her family. At home, she loves to cook, take care of her dog, and make the house tidy and cozy. Please join Olya in praying for her family's health. Please also pray for financial provision and continued growth in their faith.
Sponsorship Code: RUGRAD-23812
Oxana in Russia
Gender: Female
Grade: GRAD
DOB: 10/23/89
Oxana was raised at the orphanage, but despite her circumstances, she is determined to be successful. She graduated from the College of Construction and continued her education in accounting from Forestry University. Soon after, Oxana became a mother to two children. She and her husband, Andrey, raise their children in a one-bedroom apartment received from the state. Her son attends school and her daughter goes to kindergarten. Oxana used to work as an accountant at a local hospital, but she recently quit her job and is now looking for a new place to work. Oxana's ultimate dream is to become an economist when her children grow up. For now, her husband has a job and is helping to provide financially. In her free time, Oxana enjoys driving, traveling, and visiting museums. She often does various art projects to relax and be creative. Oxana asks that you pray for God's wisdom in raising children. Please also pray for her health, future, and faith.
Sponsorship Code: RUGRAD-23813
Timur in Russia
Gender: Male
Grade: GRAD
DOB: 10/28/97
Timur was born with medical issues and was placed into the orphanage soon after. Those who know him best say that he is quiet, determined, and open to knowledge. This has led to Timur's success, as he has faced his challenges head-on and done well. Not only did he graduate from boarding school, but he started college and became a cashier. Though his health prevented him from completing medical school, he graduated from tech school. This year, he received a diploma and started working at a hospital as a laboratory technician. In addition to his work, Timur helps his girlfriend take care of her sick mother. He has incredible work ethic and a servant's heart! When he is not studying or serving, Timur enjoys visiting museums, cooking, playing football, and listening to music. In the next few years, he hopes to find a job with a stable income and renovate his apartment. Please pray for Timur's health, strength to continue his work, and growth in his faith.
Sponsorship Code: RUGRAD-23818
Anya in Russia
Gender: Female
Grade: GRAD
DOB: 3/25/97
Anya used to live in an apartment with her five siblings before receiving a one-room apartment from the state. She now lives in an apartment in the north with her son and husband, who works in the area. Anya is a great mother and truly cares about her son. During the summer, the two of them spent time in St. Petersburg. While there, they had the opportunity to attend multiple group meetings, where Anya enjoyed spending time with her friends and our staff. In the next few years, she hopes to move back to St. Petersburg and focus on raising her son well. In her free time, Anya can be found traveling to fun places and listening to music. She asks that you would pray for her father-in-law, who has been sick. Please also pray for Anya's health, future, and family.
Sponsorship Code: RUGRAD-23854
Diana in Russia
Gender: Female
Grade: GRAD
DOB: 9/19/98
Diana became an orphan at a very young age, but was placed into a foster family at age two. She stayed with that family for ten years and then was sent back to the orphanage. She lived in the orphanage for three years before being adopted by a single woman. Diana left home two years after being adopted, finishing 11th grade in a hostel. She entered university, but had to leave after financial and health issues. Fortunately, she recently entered vocational school and will study social work for the next three years. Diana works in the evenings and sometimes during the night, as well. Because she could not commute to school and work each day, she was able to move into a new apartment. She remains optimistic for the growth and learning that is to come! When Diana is not studying, she enjoys traveling, skateboarding, and working on her photography. She also loves to dance and working on choreography, as God has given her a special talent in this area. Please be in prayer for Diana as she studies, as well as for her health and future.
Sponsorship Code: RUGRAD-23903
Marianna in Russia
Gender: Female
Grade: GRAD
DOB: 2/22/00
Marianna has a father and an older sister. Both of her parents' rights were terminated, and not long after, her mother passed away. Marianna came to the orphanage in 2015 and left in 2018. Since 2015, she has shown deep care for her father. She wants to help with his drinking, so recently, she has been looking for a rehabilitation center for him. Her prayer is that he would have a better life. After Marianna graduated from the orphanage, she headed to vocational school, hoping to become a secretary. She then went to another school in 2021, Art on Fabric, and says she likes it there. In the next few years, Marianna hopes to finish college, receive a diploma, and find a steady job. Her dream would be to become a professional photographer in the future, so she is currently practicing her photography when she has the opportunity. Marianna is truly thriving. She is a wonderful young lady who is often described as calm, reasonable, sociable, and open. She is incredibly thankful for her one-room apartment from the state, which she has furnished well. Soon, she hopes to find a part-time job to help her financially while in school. Please be in prayer for Marianna's health and for the security of a job. Please also pray for continued growth in her faith.
Sponsorship Code: RUGRAD-24469
Lyuba in Russia
Gender: Female
Grade: GRAD
DOB: 2/5/95
Lyuba came to the orphanage at the age of 12. Despite the number of hardships she has overcome in her life, Lyuba is a strong young woman who is driven by her purpose in life. She graduated from the institute with a Bachelor of Business and Computer Science degree. She recently entered a master's program at a financial university and will study for the next few years. Lyuba works incredibly hard. On top of going to school, she works as an economist at the post office and is doing well. Though she loves what she does, nothing makes Lyuba happier than her son, Sasha, who is in kindergarten. They live together in a one-room apartment she received from the state. Apart from being a mother, some of Lyuba's favorite things are resting in nature and hiking. Lyuba asks that you pray for her studies, finances, health, and wisdom in raising her son.
Sponsorship Code: RUGRAD-24472
Olya in Russia
Gender: Female
Grade: GRAD
DOB: 3/15/92
Olya grew up in the orphanage, graduated, and quickly entered vocational school in St. Petersburg to become a commercial consultant. She did not finish school, as she had her two sons and chose to stay at home with them. Her sons now attend school and are doing well. Olya's friends describe her as a calm and caring mother and wife, taking good care of the household. She has changed jobs several times over the last year, but she is now taking a course to be able to apply for a job with the railway company. Her husband, Alexander, does not yet have a permanent job, so finances can be tight, but they continue to endure. Olya and Alexander rented an apartment and are enjoying making it feel like home. In her free time, Olya likes to do crafts, such as embroidery, and cook for those around her. Olya asks that you pray for God's wisdom in raising her sons and working with finances. Please also pray for their family's health and growth in their faith.
Sponsorship Code: RUGRAD-24506
Veronica in Russia
Gender: Female
Grade: GRAD
DOB: 8/18/95
Veronica lived at the orphanage starting in 2006. She then went to the College of Traditional Culture and graduated in 2021 with a degree in Management. She is known to be a polite and calm young woman who has three beautiful kids and a husband. Veronica's husband, Vyacheslav, takes great care of their family. They have received a two-bedroom apartment from the state and are loving the joys of living together in a comfortable home. In her free time, Veronica loves driving to meetings with her children, cooking, and playing sports. One of her biggest dreams is to become a better driver so she can work in public transportation someday. She also desires to provide for her children and help her children grow in knowledge. Please be in prayer for this, as well as for Veronica's health, future, and overall wellbeing.
Sponsorship Code: RUGRAD-24666
Sasha in Russia
Gender: Male
Grade: GRAD
DOB: 4/11/98
Sasha's father has another family, so they are not close, and his mother sadly passed away. He successfully graduated from vocational school and currently works in a carpentry workshop. Others who are in the Aging Out program have grown especially fond of Sasha. They often describe him as calm, responsible, and reserved around those he does not know. Because of this, Sasha loves coming to meetings, yet finds it hard to be around people at times. When he feels this way, he likes to find a quiet spot where he can spend time alone. Sasha started to become even more quiet when one of our staff members got sick. Though he felt sad, he began to step in by doing many of his roles, including fixing broken things and lifting heavy objects. This gave him many new skills that have helped him in everyday life. Not only has he gained new skills, but he has also been given new opportunities. Recently, Sasha moved into high own apartment in the outskirts of St. Petersburg. He is excited and knows that our staff is there to help if he needs anything, including furnishing his apartment. Sasha asks that you would pray for God to grant him physical and spiritual health.
Sponsorship Code: RUGRAD-24672
Pasha in Russia
Gender: Male
Grade: GRAD
DOB: 11/3/00
Pasha lived with his brother, Valentin, in an orphanage since 2006 and recently graduated. He lives in a one-room apartment provided by the state. He is often described by others as a sociable, hardworking, helpful, and responsible young man. He behaves well and always tries to do the right thing. This, in addition to Pasha's ability to handle his emotions and resources well, helps him to be respected by both his peers and adults. These traits have attributed to his success since graduation. Pasha was first educated to become a chef and later went to school at Leningrad Region University of Economy, Finances, Law, and Technology. He has done well academically, financially, and responsibly. Currently, he is serving his country in the army. He still enjoys volunteering and often comes back to the Tikhvin Orphanage on breaks to bring treats and visit the kids. Pasha dreams of becoming a physical education teacher and starting a family in the future. When he has free time, he can be found playing sports and running long distances. Pasha asks that you would pray for God's help in his studies and sports. He also would love prayer for God's wisdom and salvation.
Sponsorship Code: RUGRAD-24673
Sasha in Russia
Gender: Male
Grade: GRAD
DOB: 1/1/00
Sasha is a graduate of the orphanage. He also graduated from the University of Economy, Finances, Law and Technology in Gatchina. After receiving a diploma, he left to serve in the army for one year. He returned this year and has started working as a welder. Sasha dreams of entering a higher education institution in the future to continue his studies. In his free time, he likes to drive cars, play soccer, and skydive. Those who know Sasha best often describe him as friendly, organized, and happy. These qualities help him to easily make friends and care deeply for those around him. Sasha asks that you would pray for God to help him in life and keep him well.
Sponsorship Code: RUGRAD-24674
Sasha in Russia
Gender: Male
Grade: GRAD
DOB: 1/1/93
Sasha started living at the orphanage at age seven. He has Miniere's Disease and hopes that he can soon find a treatment to help. He also has skin issues, and our staff is providing him with medicine to treat it. Even with these two health issues, he has remained determined. Sasha went to Kirovsky Restoration College, successfully graduating with a specialty in Building Restoration. Those who know Sasha best say that he is open-minded, cheerful, and sociable, which helps him in his education and relationships. A few years after graduation, in 2021, he married his wife Olga. Later that fall, they had their first daughter named Eva. They are all doing well and live together in an apartment from the state, which is close to his job. Sasha is currently working with our attorney to secure his share of an inheritance from his family, specifically for the apartment where his sister lives. Please be in prayer for Sasha's family, future, and healing for his body.
Sponsorship Code: RUGRAD-24954
Igor in Russia
Gender: Male
Grade: GRAD
DOB: 9/26/00
Igor spent most of his life in an orphanage. After graduating, he went to vocational school to study carpentry. He graduated, switched jobs several times, and even became unemployed for awhile. But with our help, he started working at a store. Igor is a hard worker, and is quick to make friends with all around, which is helpful for him at work. Recently, he received a one-bedroom apartment from the state and is enjoying his independence. Igor is excited to spend more time in his apartment and dreams of starting a family soon to share it with. When he has free time, he likes to play football, table tennis, and take care of his kitten. Igor asks that you would pray for his work and faith. Please also be in prayer for his health, as he injured his right foot many years ago and still struggles with it.
Sponsorship Code: RUGRAD-24956
Roma in Russia
Gender: Male
Grade: GRAD
DOB: 11/19/93
Roma grew up at the orphanage. After graduation, he went back to live with his mother and half-brother for a little while. Roma now lives alone in his apartment and is learning how to live independently. Roma recently got married to the girl he was dating and together, they have a daughter. He hopes to have a strong family and raise his daughter well. We have no doubt Roma can do this, as he is often described as a calm, quiet, and determined young man. These traits are shown in the way he cares for his family, as well as in his perseverance and hard work at his job. He works in the delivery service at Ozone and wants to improve as a specialist. When Roma is not at work, you can find him playing soccer or listening to music. He also spends his time repairing parts of his apartment, as he hopes to make it even more comfortable for himself. Roma asks that you would pray for God's help in renovating his apartment and building a family.
Sponsorship Code: RUGRAD-24957
Tanya in Russia
Gender: Female
Grade: GRAD
DOB: 5/11/04
Tanya grew up in the orphanage starting at age three. Her only relative that visited her was her grandmother, but she sadly passed away in 2019. Tanya often spends her free time learning karate, practicing theater, and painting. She also likes to study the Bible and go to church for Bible studies. Tanya is currently living in a college dorm, but will graduate from vocational school this year with a degree in graphic design. She would love to eventually get a second job, most likely as a teacher. Tanya was already offered an apartment from the government and will receive her keys in October. She has started to make plans of what she needs to fix or buy. She has a good amount of savings and has asked for our help in ensuring she uses it wisely for her apartment! Please pray for Tanya as she transitions out of college and begins to live independently. She also asks that you would pray for her mental health, help in her studies and exams, and for the strengthening of her faith.
Sponsorship Code: RUGRAD-25440
Nastya in Russia
Gender: Female
Grade: GRAD
DOB: 7/7/05
Nastya was placed in an orphanage when she was eleven years old. She has started her final year at a vocational school, where she is studying graphic design, and currently lives in a dorm. Those who know Nastya best say that she is calm, modest, and open to communication. She has also become a responsible and organized young adult because of her life experiences. Nastya has not only learned how to cook and take care of herself, but she will soon learn budgeting skills to use after graduation. She will also apply for an apartment through the state so she can live on her own. In the next few years, Nastya hopes to start a job and create a family. Her ultimate dream is to study at a photography studio and become a professional photographer. Not only does she like to take pictures in her free time, but she also enjoys playing basketball and painting. Please pray that Nastya would be given an apartment to allow for more independence and growth. She also asks that you would pray for her physical health and for God's help in her studies and in life.
Sponsorship Code: RUGRAD-25441
Alex in Russia
Gender: Male
Grade: GRAD
DOB: 7/20/03
Alex and his younger sister started lived in an orphanage in 2010, but were quickly taken in by a foster family in 2011. Though this felt exciting, it ultimately did not work out. The two returned to the orphanage in 2017 and stayed until 2019. Alex graduated from 11th grade and entered a pedagogical college to become a physical education teacher. Those who know Alex best say that he is incredibly responsible, always finishing what he starts. He plans his work and manages his time well. Not only is Alex responsible, but others say he is friendly to all. He easily connects with others and is quick to cheer them on in their endeavors. In the next few years, Alex hopes to become a highly-paid specialist in his own business and start a family. Currently, he has an apartment in Tikhvin, but is also renting one in St. Petersburg. He often spends his free time playing computer games in his apartment or playing football. Alex asks that you would pray for his health and wisdom in all matters!
Sponsorship Code: RUGRAD-25742
Karina in Russia
Gender: Female
Grade: GRAD
DOB: 3/19/05
Karina's mother led an antisocial lifestyle and left the family. Because of this, Karina's father sent her to an orphanage. He is now very sick. Those who know Karina best say that she is a calm and responsible young woman. She currently lives in a college dorm with her friends from the orphanage and is studying to become a graphic designer. She recently received a one-room apartment from the state and is looking forward to making it her own. In the next few years, Karina hopes to finish her education and find a high-paying job. When she has free time, she often likes to play volleyball and tennis or take photos. Karina asks that you would pray for her health and for God's wisdom in all matters. Please also pray for the rest of her education and continued growth in her faith.
Sponsorship Code: RUGRAD-25743
Martha in Russia
Gender: Female
Grade: GRAD
DOB: 8/3/06
Martha's father passed away. Her mother, grandmother, brother, cousins, and aunt are living, but she has almost no communication with her relatives. Martha was placed in an orphanage at age eight and has lived in two other orphanages since. She now lives in a college dorm with her friends from the orphanage. Martha is currently studying to become a professional cook but dreams of getting a second degree as a designer in the future. No matter what path she chooses, she hopes that she will receive high earnings in the future. When Martha has free time, she can often be found drawing and practicing her photography skills. Those who know her best say that she is responsible, friendly, and open. These qualities have been extra helpful to her as she navigates college and new friendships. Martha asks that you would pray for health and God's wisdom in her life. Please also pray for her education and faith.
Sponsorship Code: RUGRAD-25744
Oleg in Russia
Gender: Male
Grade: GRAD
DOB: 5/23/96
Oleg's father drowned when he was six years old. Because of this, his mother started to drink and was then deprived of parental rights. At age 13, Oleg was placed into the orphanage. He and his older sister live separately but maintain a close and trusting relationship. Oleg often spends his free time playing football, taking pictures, and training his dog. He also enjoys eating his favorite meal: crab salad. In the next few years, Oleg dreams of achieving success at work, creating a family, and traveling to the United States. He has already been trained as a plumber and electrician, and hopes that he can continue to have a job that provides financially. Oleg asks that you would pray for his health and for God's wisdom when starting a family.
Sponsorship Code: RUGRAD-25745
Pavel in Russia
Gender: Male
Grade: GRAD
DOB: 1/9/03
Growing up, Pavel lived with his aunt. In 2017, she abandoned him and sent him to live in an orphanage, which is where he stayed until age 21. Pavel recently studied at the institute to become a physical education teacher. He is a hard worker and studies well, which led not only to good grades, but also to a scholarship. Others know Pavel to be a responsible young man who always finishes what he starts. He is also friendly, easily making friends with those around. This has been a blessing to him both in college and also in the Army, which he recently joined. He has a girlfriend at home who is waiting on his return. When Pavel has free time, he can be found playing football and with animals. His dreams in the next few years are to find a high-paying job and start a family. Pavel asks that you would pray for his health and future. Please also pray for God's wisdom in his life and for continued growth in his faith.
Sponsorship Code: RUGRAD-25746
Masha in Russia
Gender: Female
Grade: GRAD
DOB: 12/23/05
Masha is a quiet and modest young woman who has ten siblings. Her parents were deprived of parental rights when she was four, so she was raised in an orphanage with her sister Toma. She only communicates with Toma and one other sister. Masha currently lives in a college dorm, as she is studying to become a professional cook. Her dream is to successfully graduate from college this year and become a talented chef and pastry chef. She also hopes to receive a one-room apartment from the state. When she has free time, Masha enjoys dancing, singing, and baking. She asks that you would pray for her to finish college and for God's wisdom in her life. Please also pray for her future and siblings.
Sponsorship Code: RUGRAD-25747