By Zach Johnson | Director of Development
Remembering Christina
One of the most difficult moments during the first half of the year was saying goodbye to Christina, who had been part of the Bethel family from the very beginning. She was an unforgettable member of our community whose life touched countless students, staff, volunteers, and visitors over the years.
Christina was known for her vibrant personality, strong character, and extraordinary ability to connect with people. Thanks to her exceptional English, she became Bethel's unofficial ambassador, proudly leading tours of our center and sharing the story of Bethel with visitors from around the world. She represented our mission with warmth, confidence, and genuine enthusiasm.
Her impact reached far beyond those tours. Christina brought laughter, energy, and friendship wherever she went. She had a remarkable gift for making others feel welcomed and included, and her conversations and cheerful spirit brightened each day for everyone around her. The Bethel center was simply a happier place because of her presence.
Throughout her life, Christina also demonstrated extraordinary resilience. Despite facing numerous health challenges, she continually defied expectations and overcame obstacles that many believed would be impossible. Her determination, courage, and joyful outlook became an inspiration to everyone who knew her.
Although Christina is deeply missed, her legacy continues to live on through the countless lives she touched and the example she set. We remain incredibly grateful for the privilege of having her as part of the Bethel family.
Celebrating Easter Together
In April, we celebrated Easter surrounded by the blessing of friendship and community. The season became even more special as we welcomed visitors who traveled all the way from China to North Carolina, creating an opportunity for meaningful reunions, fellowship, and encouragement.
These moments remind us that the Bethel family extends far beyond geographical borders. Although separated by thousands of miles, we remain united through our shared mission of serving blind and visually impaired children and empowering them to reach their full potential.
Renewal Life Design Festival
Later in April, our students had the opportunity to participate in the Renewal Life Design Festival in Beijing, an event celebrating creativity, innovation, and community.
The festival brought together music, art, local artisans, and families in a joyful atmosphere designed to inspire connection and celebrate the beauty of creative expression. Our children delighted audiences with a wonderful musical performance, sharing their talents with confidence and enthusiasm.
Following their performance, the students enjoyed exploring the bustling market, discovering handcrafted items, and experiencing the vibrant atmosphere. The beautiful spring flowers in full bloom added another memorable dimension to an already unforgettable day.
Events like these provide much more than entertainment—they allow our students to engage with the wider community, build confidence, and experience the joy of participating fully in public life.
Building Friendships Through Music
During May, our students participated in a series of music classes alongside students from Tianjin's International School. Through rehearsals, singing, and collaborative learning, the students discovered that music has the power to overcome barriers and create lasting friendships.
The experience concluded with a joyful outdoor performance where both groups proudly showcased what they had learned together. It was a wonderful celebration of teamwork, inclusion, and mutual encouragement.
These opportunities help foster understanding, build confidence, and remind all participants that meaningful friendships are formed through shared experiences rather than differences. We are deeply grateful to our friends at Tianjin's International School for their kindness, partnership, and support.
Supporting Inclusion with UNICEF
At the end of May, UNICEF launched its "Inclusive Childhood, Colorful Future" campaign, featuring inspiring performances of classical poetry recitations and group singing by children.
The campaign highlighted the importance of inclusion, creativity, and ensuring that every child has opportunities to learn, participate, and express their unique talents.
These values closely align with Bethel's mission. We celebrate every opportunity that demonstrates what children can accomplish when they are encouraged, supported, and given equal opportunities to thrive.
Celebrating International Children's Day
June began with one of our favorite celebrations of the year—International Children's Day.
Students, staff, and friends gathered for an afternoon filled with music, delicious food, games, laughter, and fellowship. The celebration honored not only the joy of childhood but also the importance of creating environments where every child feels valued, encouraged, and loved.
International Children's Day serves as a reminder that every child deserves opportunities to grow, learn, and dream without barriers. At Bethel, we strive every day to provide exactly that—a community where blind and visually impaired children can develop confidence, independence, friendships, and hope for the future.
The smiles shared throughout the celebration reflected the heart of our mission and reminded us why this work matters so deeply.
A Special Summer Reunion
June also brought the joy of reconnecting with Bethel graduates Hong Fa and Ming Ming during a summer gathering in North Carolina.
These reunions are always deeply meaningful, reminding us that Bethel is far more than a school—it is a lifelong family. Sharing meals by the ocean, exchanging stories, and celebrating together highlighted the lasting relationships that continue long after students graduate.
Watching our graduates flourish and maintain these lifelong connections is one of the greatest rewards of our work and a testament to the enduring community that Bethel has built over the years.
Thank You
As we reflect on the first six months of the year, we are filled with gratitude for every student, staff member, volunteer, partner, and supporter who has made these moments possible.
Because of your generosity, blind and visually impaired children continue to receive education, opportunities, friendships, and experiences that help them build brighter futures. Every visit, performance, celebration, and milestone shared in this report has been possible because people like you believe in our mission.
As many charities are experiencing, funding has become increasingly challenging in today's economic climate. Rising costs and tighter budgets are making it more difficult to sustain programs that change lives every day. If you are able to support Bethel Foundation Limited, no matter the size of your gift, your generosity will make a meaningful difference in the lives of the children and families we serve.
Thank you for standing with us and for helping us continue to bring hope, opportunity, and independence to blind and visually impaired children. We look forward to all that the second half of the year will bring.
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By Zach Johnson | Project Manger
By Zach Johnson | Project Manager
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