The Challenge: Limited Opportunities for Orphans

Children living in orphanages often have limited opportunities to explore the world beyond their encircled facilities, and the pandemic has only intensified these challenges. Many orphans dream of experiencing the larger world they’ve only seen on television. In response to these needs, the CCAI charitable initiative launched the Fulfill-A-Wish Summer Camp to turn these dreams into reality by sending orphans from LinFen on a life changing trip to Beijing!

The Birth of Fulfill-A-Wish Summer Camp

The CCAI charitable initiative brought together generous donors to send twenty-two children and twelve chaperones from LinFen Orphanage to Beijing for a 5-day Fulfill-A-Wish Summer Camp.

An Unforgettable Journey: LinFen Orphanage Visits Beijing

Two weeks ago, the CCAI charitable initiative made it possible for these children to embark on a life-changing journey. From the moment they arrived in Beijing, the children were treated to experiences that broadened their horizons and enriched their lives.

Day One: A Warm Welcome in Beijing

After a five-hour ride on a bullet train traveling at 190 miles per hour, the children were warmly welcomed by the CCAI charity team and treated to a delicious banquet.

Day Two: Discovering History at the Forbidden City

The well-rested campers visited a museum and toured the famous Forbidden City. Thanks to a knowledgeable and engaging tour guide, the children learned a great deal and had many of their questions answered.

Day Three: Exploring the Summer Palace and Temple of Heaven

The adventure continued with visits to the picturesque Summer Palace and the majestic Temple of Heaven. The campers also sampled local delicacies like Beijing fried paste noodles and Peking duck. Despite the bustling crowds, the brave campers embraced every moment, creating lasting memories and developing a taste for the local cuisine.

Day Four: A Morning at Tiananmen Square and the Great Wall

An early start was rewarded with a highlight of the trip—the flag-raising ceremony at sunrise in Tiananmen Square. To beat the crowd of over 10,000 spectators, the kids woke up at 2:30 a.m. and walked a few miles to secure a spot. They proudly sang the national anthem with the crowd while watching the flag rise.

Later that day, the children visited the Great Wall. Inspired by the saying, “You can’t be a real hero unless you have climbed the Great Wall,” they eagerly ascended the ancient structure, shouting, “We are heroes now!” Their joyous exclamations echoed through the historic stones, marking an unforgettable moment in their adventure.

Day Five: A Final Day of Exploration and Joy

The final day of the Fulfill-A-Wish Summer Camp included a visit to the iconic Bird’s Nest stadium, which hosted the 2008 Summer Olympics. At the Beijing Zoo, the children laughed and enjoyed seeing animals like elephants, golden monkeys, zebras, and penguins.

Returning Home: A Journey Filled with Memories

Day Six: The campers returned to their orphanage by bullet train, filled with excitement and joy from their busy week of activities and memorable experiences. Thanks to the CCAI charitable initiative and the Fulfill-A-Wish Summer Camp, the children returned home with cherished memories and fulfilled wishes.

Voices of Gratitude from the Campers

“I am just so happy to have this chance to see the impressive capital of Beijing.” – HY Dang

“Thank you so much for making my wish come true! The amazing trip has opened my eyes and expanded my world!” – BY Jiao

“I have learned so much through this trip. This experience inspires me to study harder and to become stronger.” – G Dang

Continuing the Mission: Supporting Orphans Beyond the Orphanage Walls

CCAI is committed to continuing our mission to serve children in Chinese orphanages by providing life-changing field trips and opportunities for them to grow and learn beyond their orphanage walls. The CCAI charitable initiative continues to seek support for these transformative experiences, ensuring that more children can explore the world beyond their orphanage walls. To join CCAI in our mission of cherishing children in China and around the world, please donate.