We got an update from the recipient from our Give Back program for Croatia, Erika from the Croatian Scholarship Fund. Erika has been in college, and is nearing the end of her degree, preparing for final exams.

Erika sent us an update, and we were so touched by her message:

I would like to use this e-mail as a form of gratitude I feel towards you and for what you have done throughout all these years. You helped me financially and helped me to deal with things on a daily basis. I didn't have to worry if my pockets would be empty when I exit my house, and in today's capitalistic world, it can be very stressful. On the other hand, you gave me the mental support, and it is a huge thing because every time I struggled with something, I knew that someone across the border recognized my potential and that I have to believe in myself. The same goes for my future job. Someone will see my values eventually, and I have to be patient until then. THANK YOU!
I haven't graduated yet. I left a few more exams to pass and to write my diploma paper because I can still have student rights, I can work part-time jobs and maybe travel somewhere which will be much harder to achieve once I get a job with the contract. During these five years, I learned that it is much better to work with children in smaller groups or individually. So I give instructions for primary subjects to a boy, and I am trying to find a few more children whose parents may think that their children need someone’s help with learning.
The weather in Croatia is not sunny anymore. It really looks and feels like autumn. But as long as there are no earthquakes, we can survive.

We are so proud of Erika and her ability to stay balanced—focusing on her work, but finding time to enjoy all the beauty life has to offer. We are honored to be allowed to follow along on her journey!

If you join us on retreat in Croatia, a portion of the profits from your payment will go to support students like Erika! If you want more information on the retreat, you can visit here.