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January 21, 2019

Meet the Armentrouts

1.21.19 email graphic

1.21.19 email graphic

Meet Dwaine and RuthAnn Armentrout! Dwaine has served several terms on The Boaz Project’s Board of Directors and both are faithful trip goers and supporters. Over the years, Dwaine and RuthAnn have thought it important to take trips with The Boaz Project and also expose their children to international missions, here is a little more of their story: 

“After we were connected with Jim and April and introduced to the Boaz Project, RuthAnn felt a strong calling of God to go on her first short-term international missions trip with The Boaz Project in 2003. When RuthAnn returned home she wasn’t really planning on going again, but felt the calling of God, to go which she did two more times. When she returned from her third trip, Levi invited Jesus into his heart after asking RuthAnn why she went to Russia.   During Levi’s 8th grade year, he asked us if he could go to Russia with The Boaz Project to which we, of course, said, “Yes!” After that, we wanted each of our children to experience a similar short-term mission trip outside of the US before their senior year in high school. Since they had heard so many stories from RuthAnn’s four previous trips they each wanted to go on the same trip. We also wanted either RuthAnn or me to go with them on the trip so they wouldn’t feel scared about it (at least not too much). We are so blessed that RuthAnn was able to go with Levi, Cara, and Kate, and I was able to go with Caleb during either the May VBS or Christmas trips.”

-Dwaine Armentrout

We at The Boaz Project are so honored to partner with individuals and families, like the Armentrouts, that have chosen to serve orphans in Russia, India, and Kenya.

This year as you think of your New Year’s resolutions, would you consider making a resolution to serve orphans? There are many ways to invest in the lives of orphans so that it fits your schedule and abilities. You could take a short term trip, volunteer at The Boaz office, participate in an Encounter, or join our Race for an Orphan 5k Run/Walk.

How will you partner with The Boaz project to serve orphans this year?

“Doing small things with great love”,

Taylor Pennycuff

Staff Writer

The Boaz Project, Inc.

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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.

And, that’s exactly what we’ve been doing since 1999 by focusing our support on entire homes, caregivers, and communities—instead of individual children.

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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Join the James 1:27 Circle Membership

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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.

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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.

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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
Logo displayed on the back of the Order of Events  
Recognition on event tables  
Verbal recognition during the program  
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Urgent Needs & Announcements

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Support Urgent Needs

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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?

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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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