Travels in China 2007
The Newton Family Experience in China, Summer 2007
The Esperance Family Foundation under the leadership of Roger and Coco Newton was the first foundation to recognize the potential of Golden Courage International, in 2003. Roger and Coco were immediately attracted to Yun's authenticity and gentle nature. They found him trustworthy and the mission of Golden Courage consistent with their values. Roger, in particular, felt his mission was "to help the children of the world," and Golden Courage and Yun were embodiments of this mission and purpose. Roger has been Chairman of the Board of Golden Courage since its inception.
I interviewed Roger and Coco at their home in September 2007 to ask them how their impressions of Golden Courage and Yun have evolved or changed since their visit to China this summer. Coco was particularly impressed with the high level of efficiency and far reaching effectiveness of Golden Courage in China: "As a leader, Yun is top notch and runs a multi-leveled organization, from the grassroots up to the highest level of government with excellent staff and all of this from his home in the U.S. Very impressive." Coco also notes that despite the harsh conditions Yun and his family had to endure during the Cultural Revolution, they all have become leaders in creating a new model for China in the care of displaced children, providing hope for their future through education and holistic care. The non-profit structure of Golden Courage that Yun has created is a true paradigm shift in China and can point the way for others.
Roger and Coco were deeply affected by meeting the children face to face, hearing their stories, listening to their parents, seeing the effect of their support on the lives of these vulnerable young people. Roger comments: "I never had an experience like that. It still resonates within me. I want to go back every year and follow the growth and development of these children. They can contribute rather than be burdens on society. Change happens one child at a time." Roger remarked on the high level of competence and achievement the Golden Courage children exhibit. Being chosen to be part of the Great Expectations Program of Golden Courage is a huge and life changing honor, and each and every child is aware of the opportunity being given to them and reciprocate with great diligence and attentiveness to their studies and their responsibilities.
Coco and Roger were grateful to share this experience with their own children, Russell, Alex, and Keri, and to see their commitment as Junior Directors of the Esperance Family Foundation to the mission of Golden Courage and the well-being of the children. There was a true meeting of the minds and hearts of all the Newtons on the importance of ongoing support to Golden Courage and to these children. Roger envisions greater stability coming to the Golden Courage programs through business ventures between China and the US, in which a percentage of the gross revenues will go to Golden Courage. With 75 million children in the floating population, Roger is committed to expanding the capabilities of Golden Courage to reach more children through this new model of business and non-profit partnership, providing a template that can also attract resources from growing businesses in China.
Coco and Roger returned after seeing with their own eyes and hearts the desperate situation of many young and vulnerable children. They recounted the heart-rending story of the young girl just rescued from the sex trade who spent the first years in the Great Expectations Program banging her head against the wall when she felt threatened. This same girl was so healed by the loving attention and tender care she received that she played the guitar for them in the program the children created to welcome these special visitors from across the ocean, half a world away.
Roger and Coco came home with a renewed commitment to help more children find a doorway to future possibilities and a better life through the carefully envisioned programs and web of connections created by Golden Courage International.