We asked our Sponsors what their World Vision is, and they told us.
At World Vision, we see a world where every child goes to school, where a child can be a child, not have one. Where kids wear costumes, not uniforms. Where water doesn’t make them sick. Where kids wake up to cartoons, not bombs. Where monsters are not real. We see a world free of all this – this is our World Vision. What’s yours?
Photo of Tom Thornton
“As far back as I can remember I have prayed for World Peace. Without peace, people die, and the innocent suffer immeasurably. Those who start wars seldom win, but in their loss, they caused families to lose loved ones and thousands of innocents to suffer starvation. The misplaced in the world today are a result caused by wars. In Canada, we live in peace and are so blessed to have such a gift. Others around the world are not so fortunate. So, I keep praying for World Peace and an end to war. My vision is simple or maybe it is too much to ask. But I ask it anyway and continue to pray.” - Tom Thornton
“Back in 1971, I was president of our youth group at Crescent Heights Baptist Church in Calgary. We spent a weekend fasting to see and understand what it’s like being without food. The money we raised for this challenge, was donated to World Vision, thus starting the "30-hour famine". This was one of the most rewarding moments of my life. I’ve been to World Vision Canada’s headquarters to see how it is managed and was very impressed with the organization. To help even 1 child is so worthwhile, but to see that thousands of children are benefiting is amazing. My motivation is to speak to whoever will listen and telling those who can, to donate or sponsor a child. My vision is the same as back in 1971. To help the less fortunate in this world. Helping 1 child means supporting their whole community.” - Ruth Roberts
Photo of Deborah Bowen
“My vision is a world where it doesn't matter what country you live in, you can still be safe, well housed, well fed, and loved. The motivation behind my vision is that Jesus tells us to show practical love to even the least of his children and that in doing so we show our love for Him.” - Deborah Bowen
“When I first became a sponsor with World Vision, I was self-employed doing home renovations. My work was not stable, so I didn’t always have enough money to do things such as paying rent. One day, two young people came knocking at my door, asking for sponsorship donations towards a Christian charity. The girl showed me a couple of photos of children in need and asked me if I wanted to become a sponsor. I told her no because it was a bad time for me, and I felt like couldn't do much to help. She said they only have two children left without sponsors, but I told her I couldn't help. Although I told her I couldn’t do it, being a Christian myself, I felt something else happening. I felt the Holy Spirit’s presence at that moment and decided to change my mind. I felt called to sponsor both remaining children and trust in God to provide. I believe that was eighteen or nineteen years ago, since then I’ve added three more and now support five children. This month I’m turning sixty-nine years old and find it a bit tight to support all five children now that I’m on pension. As the children I sponsor grow and become self-sufficient, I can slowly reduce my support but getting to see them grow, receive an education, and have a future to look forward to brings joy to my heart. For years I wanted to do something meaningful like this, but never got around to doing it. I guess God knew my heart and chose the right time even though it seemed like the wrong time. After seeing my journey, my sister also became a sponsor which is a blessing. My vision is for anyone who may have something like this on their mind or in their heart to just go for it, you will never regret it. May God bless all those helping to make a difference in the world through charities like World Vision and bless the children they support.” - Derrick Wells
Photo of Merrill McKay
“My world vision is for everyone to hear the gospel. I often share my testimony with people I meet, and I encourage others to do the same. My motivation has always been the example Christ set while on Earth. This is how I try to live, and I’ll continue to do so all the days of my life.” - Merrill McKay
“I envision a world where people think about others from your local neighbours to our global neighbours. I see a world where political leaders have morality and lead by example. I want billionaires to feed the children and hungry around the world instead of lining their own pockets and using their money for frivolous things. I see a world where spirituality exists outside and inside religion. Love thy neighbour as ourselves.” - Arlene Maliphant
What's your World Vision? We'd love to hear your story today!