Dear friends and supporters,

 As we begin the last month of 2008 we want to take time to share with you some of what God has been doing this past year, as well as what we look forward to in the coming year and the challenges that await us. 

 The IRS made a final determination, after the required five year advanced ruling period, that we meet all of the requirements of a public charity

We now have a Help and Hope Center operating in the Coralina district of Cucuta, Colombia and our outreach in Rubio has expanded to more poor communities including Mata de Café.

We have begun a radio program reaching young children; Pastor Adolfo Santamaria, a director of our civil association, produces “Conversation with the Children”.  Children from our Help and Hope Center are utilized in the production as an outreach to their peers.

Wayne and a teacher friend visited Rubio in July.  They endured the ever-increasing challenges of travel into and out of Venezuela, renewed old friendships and made new ones and witnessed first hand the ministry in operation.  They had an opportunity to assist with several outreach events including a special event aimed at preventing teen pregnancy.   

Bladimir has had five major surgeries in the year and a half he has been in this country.  His last surgery took place on Tuesday, November 25^th.   They have been encouraged by the many friendship made during their stay in the Chicago area this past winter and by the prayers and support they receive daily.

 In the coming months we plan to take the Center to the poor in an increasing number of communities surrounding Rubio, expand our radio programming to include a segment geared to teenagers and add to the number of directors serving on our board.

We greatly anticipate the homecoming of the “new and improved” Bladimir!  What a testimony of God’s power to change lives!

 We look forward to seeing what God has in store for Andean Aid and to witness His work as He generously meets the challenges ahead.

We ask for your prayers as we strive to make the Help and Hope Centers more accessible to the poor and as we seek to recruit, train and retain Godly volunteers, staff and directors.  The political situation is always a matter for prayer as well as financial provisions during these trying times.

 Much has been done but there is much to do.  Please pray that 2009 is our best year yet with more needy children and their families being helped and given an opportunity to know the ultimate source of hope – a relationship with Jesus Christ.

 Your friends in Christ,

 Wayne, Susan and Kerry - Directors Andean Aid