Russia

In 1993 Alex left his beloved work as a bush pilot in Alaska and returned to his birthplace to work with street children. He had no experience and no money. But his heart had been moved deeply in an encounter with street children on a trip to Far East Russia. He began by opening a soup kitchen. On opening day, no one came. Discouraged but not beaten, he prepared food again the next day. A few kids showed up. Within a week he had ten regular kids and in two weeks there were thirty. He learned the hard way how to manage so many kids. He taught them about Christ, and fed them. Over time they slowly built trust. Alex wrangled a large apartment space, and began housing street children there. At first was very little help from churches or volunteers. Yet over time, Alex developed systems and staff for New Life Orphanage, with approximately 20 children at a time.

New Life Orphanage has operated without interruption ever since. VOTC acquired a permanent space for New Life. Over time VOTC transferred it completely into independent local Russian Christian hands. With permanent facilities and a trusted reputation, it has provided thousands of children ages 5–15 with a safe home, healthcare, spiritual support, education, and life skills. Many graduates are now thriving as young adults.