I had the honor of speaking to grade 6 class last week on ADRA’s global efforts to combat famine and disaster. As they learnt about the everyday struggles experienced by children just like them around the world, I observed a group of animated children in the room become silent.

A boy in Grade 6 approached me after my talk in silence as the children packed up their book bags in preparation to head home. A crumpled five-dollar bill was visible when he extended his hand. He just stated, looking up, “I was really impacted by the stories you shared today…and I want to help to serve people around the world.”

More significantly, the five-dollar bill symbolized a spark of unadulterated empathy rather than everything he had in his pocket.

This young boy reminded me that compassion does not wait for a big financial account or a beautiful moment, it begins the moment we choose to care, in a world where complicated issues can feel overwhelming.

This small act of generosity came from a young boy with a big heart.

We are able to keep giving people hope because of our supporters.