For more than two decades, Lift Up the Vulnerable (LUV) has planted seeds of opportunity in some of the hardest places in the world. Children once vulnerable to human trafficking and exploitation are growing into graduates, nurses, teachers, mentors, leaders, and compassionate changemakers. And now, many of them are turning around and inspiring the next generation of younger children from our network walking similar paths.

Because of your partnership, these young leaders have developed something that cannot be taken away by conflict, poverty, or uncertainty: a confident expectation for the future grounded in God’s faithfulness rather than changing circumstances.

This is what it means to be Rooted in Hope.

Being Rooted in Hope is about digging deep, nourishing the soil, and investing in strong foundations that can withstand hardship, uncertainty, and even conflict.

And this year, those deep roots have mattered more than ever.

War continues in Sudan. South Sudan faces political uncertainty. Families remain displaced. Movement is dangerous, and humanitarian access is limited. Yet children are still being fed. Teachers are still teaching.Caregivers are still serving. Young people discovering their God-given potential.  And local leaders faithfully serving their communities despite extraordinary challenges.

Hope is still taking root because God is always at work.

This year: 

• 127 children have been rescued from exploitation.
• 766 children are protected through safe housing.
• 1,483 students received an education from Pre-K through 12th grade.
• 32 alumni have received scholarships.
• 710 local leaders are supported through economic development opportunities.

But these numbers tell only part of the story.

Even more encouraging, we are seeing former students become examples for the children following in their footsteps. Their education, faith, and leadership are shaping a new generation and extending that impact far beyond their own lives.

The seeds planted years ago are bearing fruit.

That is the vision behind LUV’s work: not simply helping a child survive today but creating opportunities for that child to flourish and become equipped as an agent of hope and healing for tomorrow.

In the weeks ahead, we’ll share stories of young people whose lives have been transformed and who are now inspiring and guiding the next generation.

And you have a role in helping those roots grow deeper by investing in local changemakers who are making an impact; like:

Nourish children fleeing war like Atong, Anna, and Bol