Livada Orphan Care’s camp helped Romanian orphans reflect on their past, dream big for the future, and build connections through creative activities and support.

In a world full of challenges, organizing and engaging in charitable projects and NGOs represent an essential aspect of building a brighter future. On May 11th, 2024, it was once again a day of celebration for NGOs in Mureș County! At the 21st edition of the NGO Fair, 31 organizations presented their activities carried out throughout the year for the well-being of the community and reconnected with each other.

NGO fairs are a vital platform for non-governmental organizations to present their mission, projects, and impact in the community. For the LOC Foundation, this occasion was more than just a presence at an event; it was an opportunity to share its story and inspire positive change.

We strove to create an interactive space at our booth. Through the variety of activities proposed, LOC demonstrated that involvement in noble causes can also be an experience full of joy and creativity.

One of the favorite activities for both children and adults was face painting. The LOC Foundation team was prepared with vibrant colors and impressive designs, transforming visitors’ faces into temporary works of art. This activity not only brought smiles to the faces of those present but also provided an opportunity to discuss the importance of artistic expression and creativity in personal development.

Balloon modeling was another attraction at the LOC booth. Children and adults enjoyed the captivating spectacle of balloons coming to life under the skilled hands of the employees. This activity not only stimulated the imagination but also served as a metaphor for human fragility and the need to support and protect the vulnerable in society. Even our mayor received a balloon puppy to remember us by.

Coloring, chalk drawing, and play dough modeling were other creative activities that attracted many participants. Each of these activities aimed to encourage free expression and underscore the importance of emotional and intellectual development in individuals.

However, the NGO Fair was not just about creativity and fun; it was also about solidarity and generosity. The LOC Foundation organized a fundraising campaign, inviting visitors to contribute to our humanitarian causes through donations. Each act of kindness brought hope and support to those in need.

Last but not least, the NGO Fair included a Civic Cross and Civic Solidarity March where members and beneficiaries of Mureș NGOs, as well as members of the community, could show their support for the work of NGOs and volunteers through participation.

The diverse activities offered by the NGO Fair bridged entertainment and social awareness. Through these initiatives, the LOC Foundation managed to draw attention to its humanitarian causes and inspire participants to get involved in building a better future for all.

During the Easter holiday period, we had the privilege of organizing a special activity with orphaned children in our community. On a sunny spring day, we gathered to celebrate the spirit of Easter through play, creativity, and meaningful discussion.

We started our day with an egg hunt brimming with joy and excitement. The children eagerly searched for every hidden egg in the garden, their lively laughter filling the air. Through this activity, we aimed to promote team spirit, exploration, and a celebration of life’s simple joys, regardless of individual circumstances.

After the egg hunt, we continued with an Easter egg painting session. Each child used their imagination and creativity to create unique works of art on plaster eggs. This activity not only developed the children’s artistic skills but also provided an opportunity for them to express their emotions and thoughts in a colorful and lively manner.

But our experience didn’t stop at play and creation. We gathered in a circle to discuss the profound meaning of Easter. We talked about the death and resurrection of Jesus, sharing ideas and questions about the hope and reassurance this event brings to each of us. Through these discussions, we encouraged the children to reflect on their values and discover new and deep meanings in our religious traditions.

In the end, our activity was not just a day of fun and games but also an opportunity to share valuable lessons and strengthen our community bonds. We left with hearts full of gratitude and joy, blessed to share hope and reassurance with those who need it most. We hope that these moments are just the beginning of a deeper bond and continued collaboration for the benefit and support of vulnerable children in our community.

Paste Ferecit means “Happy Easter” in Romanian.

This weekend, Easter will be celebrated by those using a western calendar.(Like in America) In Romania, even Protestant churches celebrate Easter using the eastern calendar. Therefore, they will be celebrating the Resurrection on May 5th. The good news is that we celebrate the meaning of Easter all year round through Livada Follow Up clubs and After-School programs. We are grateful for this freedom to consistently plant seeds, nurture them, and watch them grow in the lives of these wild kids!

We rejoice in using the platform of practical care for orphans and vulnerable Roma children and teens to share the hope of Easter. Thank you for providing the prayers and resources that give us this daily privilege. Please pray with us that we will not lose sight of this mission. We will pray that for you and your family too.

Paste Ferecit,

Bruce, Rodica, Mira and the rest of the Livada/LOC staff

As spring beckons, Romania embraces a unique and heartwarming tradition that symbolizes the rejuvenation and hope that the season brings. Known as Mărțișor, this tradition is celebrated at the dawn of spring, specifically in the month of March. It is not only a cultural hallmark in Romania but also holds a special place in the hearts of those in Moldova.

Mărțișor – a term derived from “marț,” the old folk name for March, encapsulates the essence of “little March.” This tradition involves the creation and gifting of a small, yet significant object – typically fashioned from two intertwined strings, one red and the other white, culminating in a hanging tassel. This simple, yet profound symbol carries deep meanings and is a representation of spring’s arrival.

The tradition of Mărțișor is deeply rooted in Romanian culture, with the practice of wearing this symbolic ornament during the initial days of March. It is customarily worn on the chest, akin to a brooch or a lapel pin, commencing from the 1st of March. Historical practices varied, with some wearing it from the first new moon of March until a significant local holiday, which could range anywhere from March 9th to May 1st, or until the blossoming of the first tree flowers, depending on regional traditions. Previously, it was also common to wear the Mărțișor tied around the wrist or as a necklace.

The intertwining of the red and white strings is symbolic, with red representing life and vitality, like the blood of Jesus, and white symbolizing purity and new beginnings, much like the cleansing snow of winter giving way to spring. This symbolism reflects the cycle of life and nature’s rebirth, making Mărțișor a poignant reminder of the beauty and hope that spring brings.

For the children in Romania, especially those in orphanages, the tradition of Mărțișor is a beacon of joy and a symbol of the care and warmth extended by the community towards them. It is a time when the simple act of giving a Mărțișor can light up a child’s face with a smile, making them feel loved and part of the community’s embrace of spring.

The Mărțișor tradition is a beautiful expression of cultural identity and communal solidarity. It is a testament to the resilience and spirit of the Romanian people, who cherish and uphold their traditions, passing them down through generations. As we celebrate Mărțișor, we are reminded of the power of traditions to bring us together, foster a sense of belonging, and spread happiness.

This spring, as we embrace the spirit of renewal and hope, let us remember the significance of the Mărțișor and the joy it brings to the hearts of many, especially the children who look forward to this gesture of love and inclusion. The Mărțișor is not just a symbol of spring; it is a symbol of our collective hope, care, and the enduring spirit of community.

Valentine’s Day, celebrated on February 14th each year, is more than just a commercial holiday filled with chocolates, flowers, and heart-shaped cards. At its core, Valentine’s Day is a celebration of love and affection between intimate companions, a day dedicated to expressing love and appreciation for those we hold dear. This tradition, rooted in both Christian and ancient Roman tradition, has evolved over the centuries into a global celebration that transcends cultural and geographical boundaries, reminding us of the universal importance of love in human connection and well-being.

However, Valentine’s Day also offers a unique opportunity to extend our expressions of love beyond the conventional boundaries of romantic and familial relationships. It invites us to consider those who may not regularly experience the warmth and care most of us take for granted, such as the high school students Livada works with in Ogra. This year, during a group therapy meeting for those same high school students, we asked “What does love really mean?” Love means getting involved. Making a difference. It’s something you don’t just say, but something you do. Livada Orphan Care works tirelessly in Romania to provide love, support, and care to orphans, ensuring they have access to the essentials of life and the opportunity to grow in a nurturing environment.

Through your support of Livada’s work with teenagers, you not only adhere to the true essence of Valentine’s Day but also contribute to a cause that has a lasting impact on the lives of vulnerable young people. This act of kindness and generosity embodies the love and compassion at the heart of Valentine’s Day, transforming our celebration into a meaningful gesture that reaches across borders to touch the lives of those less fortunate. So, this Valentine’s Day, expand your understanding of love by supporting Livada Orphan Care, making a difference in the world one child at a time.