August 21, 2025

A Sweet June Visit to India – Building Up Caregivers and Connections

We’re thrilled to share some sweet highlights from our recent June training trip to India—a journey marked by God’s faithfulness, meaningful fellowship, and powerful equipping moments for the caregivers who serve orphaned and vulnerable children every day.

Our team departed on June 10, hearts full and bags packed for ministry. While the travel was filled with delays, we witnessed God’s provision at every turn. It was the first of many reminders that He was going before us.

Training began on June 13. We were honored to have Sarah Barlow, a licensed marriage and family therapist, lead sessions each morning on strengthening marriages and preparing young couples to join together in this covenant. Her insights were practical, Spirit-led, and deeply appreciated by our partners.

Afternoons were intentionally split into men’s and women’s groups, led by Jill and Steve Dyer. These sessions allowed for more vulnerability and community—space to share joys and challenges in a safe, supportive setting.

We followed this routine for three full days, building a rhythm of growth, encouragement, and connection. Each conversation felt like a small seed being planted—seeds we trust God will grow in His perfect timing.

On Sunday, we gathered for a shared service with local pastors and house parents. Though Steve was asked to preach with just a few minutes’ notice, his message was powerful and Spirit-filled. We were all reminded that God equips us—even in the unexpected.

Before heading home, we had the absolute joy of visiting BY Home. Spending time with the children is always a highlight, and this trip was no exception. We shared lessons on the names of God—helping the children understand who He is and how He cares for them—and, of course, there was plenty of play and laughter.

We thank you for praying, supporting, and walking alongside us as we serve the caregivers and children God has called us to love. This trip reminded us again how deeply impactful your support is—both on the ground and in eternity.

We’re thrilled to share highlights from our June training trip to India—a journey marked by God’s faithfulness, rich fellowship, and powerful equipping for those caring for orphaned and vulnerable children.

Our team left June 10, and despite travel delays, we saw God’s provision at every step. Training began June 13, with Sarah Barlow, a licensed marriage and family therapist, leading morning sessions on strengthening marriages and preparing young couples for covenant life. Afternoons split into men’s and women’s groups, led by Jill and Steve Dyer, creating safe spaces for honest sharing and encouragement.

After three days of teaching and connection, we joined local pastors and house parents for Sunday worship, where Steve preached a Spirit-filled message with only minutes’ notice—a reminder that God equips us even in the unexpected.

Before heading home, we visited BY Home, teaching children the names of God and enjoying laughter-filled time together.

With over 25 years of experience and a network of like-minded people around the globe, The Boaz Project can help you show Christ’s love to scared and abandoned children.

To learn how you can help save orphaned children from life on the streets—connect with us on Facebook and Instagram or visit our website here.

3 Comments

  1. Jennie Cooksey says:

    Supporting and equipping the caregivers is so important as they need to be filled to give so much to the children they support. I love the line that God equips us – even in the unexpected!

  2. Sussy Akumu says:

    Thank you The Boaz Project for showing love you have worn the greatest commandment (love)

  3. Meenax says:

    Through you the caregivers feel the need to commit and also they feel that you care hence boost their morale

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Read more from our blog.

Because God knew that abandoned children would need help to survive, He tells us to actively meet the needs of orphans in James 1:27.

If you also feel the weight of this responsibility and the desire to make a real difference, consider partnering with us. Through our innovative in-home care model, specialized caregiver training, and humanitarian aid, you’ll help children not just survive—but truly thrive.

When you choose to partner with The Boaz Project, you'll restore hope, ensure a brighter future through education, and share the love of Jesus with children who desperately need it.

Just imagine the impact you can have—from saving a child from the horrors of the streets to helping them become community leaders, educators, and nurturers of the next generation.

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What does an orphan mission trip include?

  • Hotel accommodations
  • In-country transportation
  • Application support and fees for your Visa
  • In-country language assistance
  • All meals in-country
  • Ministry curriculum and supplies
  • Cross-cultural training and preparation
  • Trip insurance
  • International medical insurance
  • Fundraising assistance

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Orphan Advocate Training Certification Courses and FAQs

Required Courses for Certification:
Fundamentals of Orphan Advocacy

This self-paced course serves as the primary course for our orphan advocate training certification. By taking this course, you will:

  • gain a basic understanding of orphan advocacy and why it matters
  • learn practical, real-life ways to support orphans and make a difference
  • understand best practices for orphan care based on years of experience
  • discover how to use your voice to advocate for vulnerable children
  • join other like-minded people working together for good


Assisting Orphans: Helping Orphans in Their Need

This course highlights The Boaz Project’s foundational area of impact—assisting orphans. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of the global orphan crisis, the urgent needs of vulnerable children, and the real difference you can make by stepping into their stories.

Every number tells a heartbreaking truth:

  • Over 153 million children worldwide are considered orphans.*
  • Millions live in institutions or on the streets, without the consistent care of a loving adult.
  • Many suffer from trauma, neglect, and exploitation, leaving lasting scars that only intentional care can begin to heal.

This course offers more than information—it equips you to take action grounded in compassion and wisdom.

Prerequisite: Fundamentals of Orphan Advocacy must be completed before enrolling.


Supporting Caregivers: Upholding Caregivers as They Serve Orphans

Continue your advocacy journey by learning to support and strengthen the caregivers serving orphans daily.

Through powerful stories, practical tools, and proven methods, you’ll gain the knowledge and confidence to make a lasting difference in their lives and the lives of the children they love.

Join us and become a source of strength for those on the front lines of orphan care.

Prerequisite: Fundamentals of Orphan Advocacy must be completed before enrolling.


Engaging Others: Using Your Voice for Orphans

The orphan crisis is real—but getting involved is easier than you think. The Boaz Project offers a variety of simple, meaningful ways for you to make an impact and inspire others to do the same.

As you discover God’s heart for orphans, you’ll be equipped to engage in ministry, advocate effectively, and mobilize your community. From sharing resources to starting conversations, you’ll learn to be a strong voice for the voiceless.

You don’t have to do everything—just do something.

Prerequisite: Fundamentals of Orphan Advocacy must be completed before enrolling.


Becoming Certified: Impacting Orphans with Ongoing Advocacy

As the final course in The Boaz Project’s Orphan Advocacy Certification series, this capstone experience builds on the foundation laid in the Fundamentals, Assisting, Supporting, and Engaging courses. You’ll combine everything you’ve learned and apply it through personal reflection, skills development, and Bible study—all designed to solidify your calling and prepare you for continued impact.

This course doesn’t just complete your certification—it launches you into ongoing opportunities to influence lives, support caregivers, and advocate for vulnerable children with wisdom and confidence.

Become a certified orphan advocate.
Be ready to make a difference that lasts.

Prerequisite: Fundamentals of Orphan Advocacy, Assisting Orphans: Helping Orphans in Their Need, Supporting Caregivers: Upholding Caregivers as They Serve Orphans, and Engaging Others: Using Your Voice for Orphans must be completed before enrolling.

FAQs
Do I have to live near Greenwood, Indiana to complete the training?

No! This certification was intentionally created to allow opportunities for anyone in the United States to participate fully.




How much of a time commitment is it?

This is completely up to you. The entire process is self-directed. There are no deadlines, and you may take as much or as little time as you need to complete each course.




Can I do this training with my spouse? Or a friend?

Yes! Going through the training with a spouse or friend can provide accountability and motivation. As you progress, you may be able to accomplish more together!




How much will it cost?

All Orphan Advocate Training courses are free to join! While you may choose to spend money while completing some projects, there are only minimal costs involved (such as a book or a few supplies) depending on which course you choose to do.




Is there an age requirement to become a Certified Orphan Advocate Trainee?

This would be answered on a case-by-case basis. This would also be open to middle schoolers or high schoolers looking to complete volunteer hours (i.e. National Honor Society) or build college applications. We always encourage young people to be involved if they feel led by God to do so!




What if I don’t have any social media accounts?

We will adjust your requirements to accommodate you and provide different opportunities to engage.




If I complete the Orphan Advocate Training Certification, can I put it on my resume or LinkedIn profile?

Yes! When you complete all of the courses required to become certified, you will receive a final certificate and you will be able to use the title "Certified Orphan Advocate".




Will I be able to get a signed letter to verify my volunteer hours?

We are sorry that we cannot verify volunteer hours that are done outside of the office or an event due to the fact that these hours are not supervised. However, we can write about the quality of work that was done, your commitment level, and the training courses achieved. We can also say that your self-reported, unsupervised hours fit into the typical number of hours that are usual for that course.




How do I get started?

If you would like to begin Orphan Advocate Training Certification begin by completing the registration form. Make sure to select the Certification course. You will then be assigned an OAT Coach. Once your coach reviews your information, he/she will send you an email with your next steps!




Who do I contact if I have any other questions?

Please complete the form below or contact OAT@boazproject.org with any questions.

FAQ

Do I have to live near Greenwood, Indiana to complete the training?

No! This certification was intentionally created to allow opportunities for anyone in the United States to participate fully.




How much of a time commitment is it?

This is completely up to you. The entire process is self-directed. There are no deadlines, and you may take as much or as little time as you need to complete each course.




Can I do this training with my spouse? Or a friend?

Yes! Going through the training with a spouse or friend can provide accountability and motivation. As you progress, you may be able to accomplish more together!




How much will it cost?

All Orphan Advocate Training courses are free to join! While you may choose to spend money while completing some projects, there are only minimal costs involved (such as a book or a few supplies) depending on which course you choose to do.




Is there an age requirement to become a Certified Orphan Advocate Trainee?

This would be answered on a case-by-case basis. This would also be open to middle schoolers or high schoolers looking to complete volunteer hours (i.e. National Honor Society) or build college applications. We always encourage young people to be involved if they feel led by God to do so!




What if I don’t have any social media accounts?

We will adjust your requirements to accommodate you and provide different opportunities to engage.




If I complete the Orphan Advocate Training Certification, can I put it on my resume or LinkedIn profile?

Yes! When you complete each level, you will receive a certification that you can use to enhance your professional profile and to show involvement in community service.




Will I be able to get a signed letter to verify my volunteer hours?

We are sorry that we cannot verify volunteer hours that are done outside of the office or an event due to the fact that these hours are not supervised. However, we can write about the quality of work that was done, your commitment level, and the training courses achieved. We can also say that your self-reported, unsupervised hours fit into the typical number of hours that are usual for that course.




How do I get started?

If you think you would like to begin Orphan Advocate Training, please complete the registration form, and you’ll be assigned an OAT Coach. Once your coach reviews your information, he/she will send you an email with your next steps!




Who do I contact if I have any other questions?

Please complete the form below or contact OAT@boazproject.org with any questions.

Event Sponsorship Levels

  Friend of the Cause
$1,000
Beacon of Hope
$2,500
Champion of Children
$5,000
Legacy Partner
$10,000
Name included on sponsor signage at event entry
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Recognition on event tables  
Verbal recognition during the program  

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FAQ

Who is this course for?

Anyone with a heart to help vulnerable children—whether you’re just beginning or looking for ways to deepen your impact.




How can I get my questions answered as I progress through the course?

A dedicated coach will be available to support you as much or as little as you need.




Can I do this course with friends or with my small group?

Absolutely! We can offer you and your friends the chance to be a cohort and work through the course together with a dedicated coach to support your group.




How long does the course take?

The course is self-paced, allowing you to learn at your convenience. Including the 3 hours of video/audio/live content, this course can take approximately 10-15 hours to complete.




What does it cost?

Nothing! The course is completely free because we believe advocacy should be accessible to everyone.




How do I sign up?

Just click Register Now and start making a difference!

Orphan Advocate Training Registration

Thank you for joining The Boaz Project in advocating for orphans. Once we receive your completed registration, we will reach out soon with the next steps, so keep an eye on your inbox. We can’t wait to support you!

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