By Omar David –

I have been visiting Dorie’s Promise for four years and still come once a week to play with the kids.  You will find me there every Thursday afternoon for about 45 minutes.

I got to know about Forever Changed International while playing tennis with Dr. Castro.  A couple of years later he came to my place of work to purchase some items. I asked him then if he was still working at the orphanage and if there was anything I could do to help. He told me that they were short on vaccines and other medicines. At this point I told him I would find funds to get what he needed.

That was about 6 years ago, with the help of my church, family, friends and business contacts we have been able to cover the cost of most of the medications, vaccines and some medical equipment. With the help of others we have at times supplied produce, sugar, toys and clothing for the children.

At times, I try to share special events with the kids; Thanksgiving dinner, Easter egg hunts, magic & music shows and of course an annual tennis day. Thanks to the local tennis club and the trainers there we just enjoyed our 4th year of this fun outing.

Once a year; we take all the children and Special Mothers to play tennis at the club. It helps break the monotony of their routine and it’s a good way for the children to learn a new sport while having fun and using up their energy.

I coordinated plans with the club president to be able to offer the children a tennis day. This year four tennis coaches were happy to assist with the activities. Because we had plenty of helpers we were able to organize the kids by age. They were fascinated to learn how to play and for many it was the first time they had picked up a tennis racket.

We first showed them how they should use the racket. And then explained the basic rules. After that we had some competitions and games and finally an exhibition match was played between teachers to give them an idea of the sport.

After this fun activity, we met in the Club’s restaurant for hot dogs and a soda.

Nayeli Soto shared her experience afterwards, “I like sports and what I like about tennis is hitting the ball with the racket, running and playing the king of the court. It’s very fun!”

Luis also likes to play king of the court. He said,  “I also love to bounce the ball with the racket and try to keep it from escaping. It was a lot of fun!”

Dorie’s Promise is a very welcoming place, and the care that is given to children there is excellent. I really enjoy the opportunity to share my time with the children. And find it fulling to my soul to do so.