We have been so grateful for the support we’ve received recently through stateside fundraisers. These events are crucial for the continuation of the ministry we do here in Ukraine. Thank you to those who joined us – you have played a huge part in sustaining the work of Open Arms this year.

from Chelsea Rollins…

SILENT AUCTION IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

On September 8th, all the hard work that went into planning a fundraiser event finally came together as over 50 people gathered to show their support for Open Arms. So many people were involved in order to make this a success. Items were donated and bid on for a silent auction, food was prepared, information about Open Arms was displayed, and games and a photo booth were ready for the kids! It was a hot but fun afternoon of fellowship with family, friends, and supporters of Open Arms. Thank you so much to everyone who was involved in one way or another! Your generosity, prayers, and support are such an encouragement to the Open Arms team. We could not do what we do without you!

from Annie Carbonaro…

“DINNER FOR GOOD” IN THE BAY AREA, CALIFORNIA

Last week marked the Second Annual Dinner for Good in the Bay Area and the night was sweet indeed! The vision of the night is to bring together community, utilizing the gifts and talents of the body of Christ and doing it all to support a bigger cause. That vision came together in a simply beautiful way as Paul Keim (Smalltown Society) and friends (Tammy & The Silverspoons) showed off their mad musical skills while all who attended enjoyed the ridiculously amazing dishes of braised pork and more by Spencer Huey (Salt House) with the help of his rockstar sidekick Kensey Vold. And please, let us not forget the fruit tartlets that topped off the night by the always-fabulous Cortney Marcus and Cathy Keim (Petal and Posie Cakes). All of this was captured by the ever-so-talented Cathy Breslow (Breslow Imaging DfG album here). Open Arms was hugely blessed by all who gave of their gifts, time, and finances to make this night so great! THANK YOU! Now, we’re not sure how we will top this year’s Dinner for Good, but we’ve got a year to make it happen. Be on the look-out!




from Melissa Keane…

FIRST ANNUAL OAU WALK IN THE BAY AREA, CALIFORNIA

On Saturday, September 14th, we had our first annual OAU Walk. Whenever you do anything for the first time, it turns into a lesson for how to do it the next time. We learned a lot and are already excited for next year. Thank you so much to those who came out and for those of you who couldn’t come but supported anyway. We had a fun time showing off our awesome t-shirts while walking around Concord, California. A special thanks goes to Angie Lagusis and Konni Stalica for putting on the walk. OAU is truly so thankful for your support.