Breathe and Believe: Kid Resilience Summer Program Report

Breathe and Believe Summer Program: A Journey of Healing and Hope with Kanlungan and Hope International Orphanages

This summer, the Breathe and Believe Kid Resilience program brought light, courage, and healing to the children of Kanlungan and Hope International orphanages through three deeply transformative sessions. Over three sessions, these brave young souls showed us the power of vulnerability, connection, and hope even amid their challenging realities.

Session 1: Opening Hearts, Finding Calm (May 1, 2025)

From the moment we arrived, we were met with warm smiles and quiet curiosity — signs of growing trust between the children and our team. The playful game of Simon Says quickly broke the ice, filling the room with laughter and opening the door to deeper connection.

When we practiced petal breathing, many children shared they had already begun using this simple technique to soothe themselves when overwhelmed. Hearing this was a quiet triumph, proof that even small tools can spark meaningful change in their daily lives.

During the safe space visualization, the children revealed their deepest longings, to be with loved ones, to feel safe, to belong. Some imagined serene beaches, others embraced the comfort of family, and a few sought peaceful solitude. Their personal affirmations “I am strong,” “I can overcome anything” spoke of budding resilience and a fierce will to rise beyond their circumstances.

Session 2: Unburdening Through Sharing (May 26, 2025)

The second day was filled with raw honesty and emotional release. Some children shared stories they hadn’t even told their trusted therapists. Tears flowed freely, not from sadness alone, but from relief, the relief of finally being seen and heard.

Though small in number, the Kanlungan group formed a powerful circle of trust and support. They practiced teaching the breathing and grounding exercises to their peers who missed the session, becoming young leaders in their own right. Witnessing their courage and empathy was a reminder that healing is amplified when shared.

Session 3: Embracing Community and Joy (June 6, 2025)

On the final day, children from both orphanages came together in a safe, beautiful space to build friendships and support one another.

We began with breathwork and guided meditation, helping the children center themselves and find peace within. Introducing journaling opened a new outlet for self-expression; watching them write their first entries, some hesitant, others eager — was profoundly moving. Each journal was more than paper; it was a place to hold their stories, fears, and hopes.

The afternoon’s laughter, swimming, and playful moments revealed how essential joy and connection are to healing. In these carefree moments, the children weren’t defined by their hardships but celebrated as kids — resilient, hopeful, and deserving of happiness.

A Testament to Strength and Growth

Lovely, one of our dedicated social workers, shared:“Seeing children who once hesitated now speak confidently about their feelings and affirm their worth was nothing short of inspiring. These moments remind us that resilience isn’t about avoiding pain but growing through it.”

Mylene reflected:“Their stories and imaginations came alive during the sessions. The children’s openness and willingness to connect showed a beautiful vulnerability that is the first step toward healing.”

Continuing the Journey

The Breathe and Believe program reaffirmed the importance of creating safe spaces where children can explore their emotions, build resilience, and find community. The courage these young hearts showed each day leaves us hopeful for their futures, filled with strength, healing, and endless possibilities.

Thank you for your unwavering support that makes this transformative work possible. Together, we breathe hope and believe in the power of every child’s story.