Once again I found myself walking through the garbage dump community known as “Smokey Mountain”.  This is a newer version of the one I first visited 22 years ago.  I’ve gotten used to the sites and smells after so many years of visiting here, but one thing that never ceases to amaze me is how […]

I’m so impressed with the college students that are in the sponsorship program here in Manila.  On their own initiative along with the sponsorship staff and a core group of former students (who are now working professionals),they began a project of their own to reach out to children 4 – 14 years old in a […]

This week most of my time is being spent visiting as many of our sponsored student as I can. This task sounds easy, but in fact it can be quite exhausting. The majority of our kids live in a housing area called “permanent housing” which came into being a number of years ago as a […]

After the long flight from Newark International to Tokyo/Narita to Manila, Philippines….and…a delay in my pick up because I arrived at Terminal 3 not Terminal 1….I was greeted by this sign on my door….”Welcome Home”. After more than 20 years of traveling to this place, it does feel like a second home and I honor […]

Today I’m writing from the comfort of my home as I watch the snow and ice fall from the sky. A stark contrast from the t-shirt and shorts weather I just left in Manila.  Although the trip had it’s difficulties with travel delays and some health difficulties, once again I left wishing there was more […]

Today I was listening to the update from the team of workers who are trying to help those infected with TB who live on the dump site.  They currently have 14 people receiving the much needed medication, but many more are in need.  They shared the story of visiting a young mother who is infected […]

Regina Grace is a second year high school student who is being sponsored by one of Hope For Change’s generous sponsors. 4 years ago Regina, along with her younger sibling, was abandoned by her mother and left in the care of her aunt who lives in the permanent housing area in Tondo, Manila. This is […]

Greetings from Manila! I’m starting my second full day here after a particularly difficult and frustrating trip. Because of the crazy weather on Monday my first flight left an hour late which caused me to miss my connection to Manila. I had to stay over night in Detroit, which turned out okay because I was […]

On May 8th Hope For Change had a benefit concert featuring an amazing line up of great musicians. Terrance Motley opened the show, the band 3 performed and Ceili Rain brought the evening to a great close. We were honored to have as guests 3 legendary musicians; Jerry Marotta, Tony Levin and Pete Levin. If […]

Here are some pictures of the musicians, H4C Directors, and volunteers who made the H4C Benefit Concert a night to remember. We’ll write more soon… Until then ~ huge thanks to all who came and gave to the cause!