Petroushka Ball 2006 at the Waldorf=Astoria

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1 RCWS NEWS Vol. 11 HELPING RUSSIAN CHILDREN IN CRISIS SINCE 1926 Fall 2006 RCWS Scholarship Program Continues to Expand In 2003, with the financial support and advice of Mrs. Nika Thayer, the Society launched a scholarship program to help orphans attain secondary education. We started small, initially supporting just two students in the Pskov region who demonstrated their dedication, purpose and drive to graduate from college. By the beginning of the academic year, the Society will be supporting 14 orphans in the Pskov region alone. Since our scholarship model has proven viable and replicable, the Society began its support of three orphans from the Yaroslavl region last year and will add three more this fall. Through RCWS assistance, each scholarship recipient is given the chance to take preparatory courses for college entrance On February 9, 2006, the 41st annual Petroushka Ball was held for the first time at the elegant grand ballroom of the Waldorf- Astoria Hotel in New York City. Attended by some 800 elegantly dressed dinner and dancing guests, the Ball was a fitting finale for an especially productive year. RCWS President Vladimir Fekula is pleased to report that this year's Petroushka Ball achieved its highest net profit ever - over $128,000. The proceeds were allocated to help disadvantaged children in Russia by supporting orphanages, homeless shelters, rehabilitation centers, hospitals, and the RCWS scholarship program for orphanage graduates. It was an extraordinary evening! Soprano Anna Netrebko, a Mariinsky Theatre and Metropolitan Opera star, made her third appearance. This year, Anna performed with the exciting Rolando Villazón, a leading tenor with the Metropolitan Opera House. They were simply sensational. Each sang a solo followed by two duets, concluding with a spellbinding performance of "Libiamo, ne' lieti calici" from Verdi's "La Traviata." These two world acclaimed vocal artists are most sought after by all of the leading opera houses. We are very proud, and fortunate to have Anna as an Honorary Director of the Russian Children's Welfare Society reunion of RCWS students in Pskov Petroushka Ball 2006 at the Waldorf=Astoria Standing ovation for Anna Netrebko and Rollando Villazón The Petroushka Male Chorus, consisting of volunteers drawn from the dinner guests and conducted by Peter Fekula, sang a "Mnogaya Leta" to wish Ms. Netrebko and Mr. Villazón "many years." The Lester Lanin Orchestra, under the baton of Spencer Bruno, continued the evening's musical program as guests flooded the dance floor. Additional entertainment was provided by Mikhail Smirnov and the Barynya Balalaika Orchestra; "Tchaika", a Russian cabaret group flown in from Paris for the occasion, and pianist Lazlo Fornwald. Among the evening's special guests were ABT ballerinas Irina Dvorovenko and Veronika Part, as well as Miss Universe, Russian born exams. This is particularly important since orphans usually receive a substandard education and need academic support. Once they have gained acceptance to a college, the students receive a $100 per month stipend to help with cost-of-living expenses and food. Without such financial supplements, orphans are usually forced to find other jobs to make ends meet, usually leading to poor grades and the decision to drop out. Our guidance counselors under the leadership of Tatiana Bodrova, closely guard the children's progress in school, disburse funds on a monthly basis, and help resolve any problems that arise. RCWS requires academic transcripts from each of the students and reports on the use of the stipend to assure accountability. Our Yaroslavl scholarship program is similarly run. RCWS Moscow office director Ludmila Koroleva oversees and conducts site visits to both programs. Periodically we receive updates from the students that affirm just how important the scholarships are to their lives. Victor Sadkevich, a student at the Opochka Pedagogical Institute, who is earning very solid grades, recently wrote us a note: "From the very beginning, studying in college hasn't been easy, especially since I didn't Natalia Glebova, who represents Canada. Diplomats including Ambassador Andrei Denisov and General Consul Vitaly Garmonin, business executives and celebrities were also in attendance. RCWS owes a special thanks to Mr. Michael Jordan of Aton Securities for CONTINUED ON PAGE 6 Irina Dvorovenko, Principal Dancer at ABT providing wine for the event and to Mr. Art Saguirian, President of BMC Imports Ltd., for a generous donation of "Jewel of Russia" Ultra- Premium Vodka. We are likewise grateful to Mr. Peter Tcherepnine for underwriting the cost of the spectacular flower arrangements, created by Inna Nagibina, owner of the The Soft Orchid. All dinner guests received gift bags filled with beautiful fragrances, generously donated by the Estée Lauder Companies, Inc; an elegant bone china cup and a saucer from the Imperial Porcelain Manufactory (LFZ) in St. Petersburg, Russia; CD and DVD sampler "Violetta" with arias and duets of Anna Netrebko and Rolando Villazón from Verdi's La Traviata, donated by Universal Classics; gift certificates to the CONTINUED ON PAGE 8

2 Page 2 RCWS NEWS Vol. 11 HIV Hospital Combats Myths of Disease There are approximately 16,000 children living with HIV in Russia today. For many of them, the diagnosis is the least of their worries. Approximately 5,000 of them have been abandoned by their parents and are treated as outcastes in a society that stigmatizes people with HIV. Schools, and even orphanages, refuse to accept HIV-infected children, and the number of those willing to adopt them is negligible. Misinformation about transmission of the disease abounds, fostering unnecessary fears even among health professionals. Many children end up living in the hospital they were born in for years, isolated, growing depressed and unable to look forward to a regular education. Science has advanced greatly in treating the disease, developing anti-retroviral therapies that require pill ingestion as little as twice Dr. Evgeny Voronin a day. Compliant HIV patients of all ages are now living normal lives. Societal prejudices, however, remain firmly entrenched, and children who were born with HIV enjoy no extra sympathy. On a brighter note, children with HIV have found a great friend and advocate in Dr. Evgeny Voronin, Director of the Pediatric AIDS Center in Ust-Izhora, just outside of St. Petersburg. The hospital specializes in HIV prevention and the diagnosis and treatment of pregnant women and children. There are currently 40 children from one to six years of age living at the Center. Dr. Voronin established his "Future Without AIDS" program in 1998 primarily to prepare and educate these HIV infected youngsters to adapt to the outside world. These special patients need professional teachers and caretakers who are highly qualified in their fields, sensitive to people with HIV, and have the motivation to create a psychologically healthy learning environment. Unfortunately, woefully inadequate government funding made it nearly impossible to find the right personnel for the project. RCWS stepped up and approved an initial $10,000 grant so that Dr. Voronin can offer competitive salaries to prospective teachers and surround the children with quality staff. He is also planning to hire a psychologist, psychotherapist, Two brave friends combating the disease neurologist and speech therapist to help the kids deal with the sense of loss and deprivation they have experienced in their young lives. We plan to continue offering assistance to this important cause. First Lady Laura Bush visited the AIDS Center in Ust-Izhora during the recent G-8 summit in St. Petersburg. She was seen dancing with the children and holding their hands. Hopefully, coverage of her visit will show ordinary Russians that such contact with HIV infected people can indeed be safe. In the meanwhile, Dr. Voronin will continue to try to change societal attitudes toward HIV/AIDS and run educational programs that dispel myths surrounding the disease. RCWS Board member Raisa Scriabine has also made several contributions to the Pediatric AIDS Center. 2nd Training Symposium on Cleft Lip and Palate in Moscow Of the close to 30,000 children in Russia born each year with facial deformities, approximately 30-40% are cleft lip and palate cases. Unfortunately, over half of Russia's 89 regions do not have medical facilities capable of assisting such patients, and many corrective surgeries are performed by general surgeons who do not have the necessary experience and training to provide proper treatment. Most families in Russia simply cannot afford to bring their children to Moscow for the best treatment available in the country. The Moscow Medical Stomatological University (MMSU), Russia's leading center for surgical treatment of pediatric facial deformities, is also a teaching hospital and trains surgeons, anesthesiologists, orthodontists, speech therapists, nurses and other medical professionals from all over Russia. In order to raise standards of cleft care outside of the capital, MMSU hosted its 1st Training Symposium in December The Smile Train, Russian Children's Welfare Society and the Russian Ministry of Health renewed its sponsorship for the 2nd Cleft Care Symposium, held April 19-21st at the House of Scientists in Moscow this past spring. Over 450 medical professionals from 39 regions of Russia, Belarus, Ukraine, Sweden, and Italy participated in the symposium. Among the participants were stomatological surgeons, pediatric surgeons specializ- Prof. Svetlana Diakova with her young patients ing in facial deformities, orthodontists, speech therapists, otolaryngologists, and psychologists. Doctors benefited from a special presentation by Prof. Jan Lilja, Sahlgrenska University Hospital of Sweden, whose expenses were underwritten by The Smile Train. Each attendee also received a 330 page reference manual, entitled "New Methods of Comprehensive Treatment and Rehabilitation of Children with Cleft Lip and Palate," as well as The Smile Train's "Virtual Surgery" CD's and other materials. Additional manuals were given to medical universities that train doctors in cleft care. Prof. Diakova, Head of the Department of Pediatric Facial Surgeries at MMSU, reports that these symposiums are having real results. The planning committee designed a proposal to improve cleft care in Russia based on discussions and presentations during the symposium, which is to be reviewed by the Ministry of Health. The media is also taking interest. Journalists from the Russian TV program "Business in Moscow" made a report on the symposium that was aired on April 21st, The 2nd symposium was, furthermore, helpful in identifying potential future partner hospitals for The Smile Train project. Anna Sergeeva-Gross, Director of RCWS New York Office, made a presentation on behalf of The Smile Train and RCWS, describing our collaboration on cleft care in Russia and how other hospitals could join the program. A $10,000 RCWS grant helped defray Symposium costs. We are very grateful to The Smile Train for the $16,150 in additional support it provided for the event. We greatly appreciate that once again the Department of Mother and Child Health at the Russian Ministry of Health covered the cost of transportation, per diem expenses, and accommodations for doctors arriving from outside of Moscow. Thanks also to the wonderful organizers of the symposium, Prof. Svetlana V. Diakova, Dr. Marina A. Pershina and Prof. Orest Z. Topolnitsky, of the MMSU Department of Pediatric Facial Surgeries, Prof. Vitaly V. Roginsky, Head of the Moscow Center for Children's Maxillofacial Surgery, and many others whose hard work made it possible for doctors from all over Russia to learn about the latest diagnostic, treatment, and rehabilitative procedures for cleft lip and palate.

3 Fall 2006 RCWS NEWS Page 3 "Going to Grandma's House" Babushkas as Foster Mothers Valentina Evseevna has been raising her grandson Pasha, who is now 15, since he was 10 months old. No one would dispute that keeping Pasha with his loving grand mother was preferable to placement in an orphanage. However, at the age of 71 and living on a pension, this babushka is struggling financially. Seventy two-year-old Zinaida Anatolievna has been raising her four grandchildren for the last four years in addition to taking care of her 80 year old husband, who is blind. Her oldest grandson is 23, works, and does all he can to actively help his younger brother Pavel, 18, and his sisters Nastya, 11, and Mashenka, 6. Nevertheless, the psychological and economic burden puts a great deal of stress on this caring grandmother. Valentina Evseevna with her grandson Zinaida Anatolievna and her granddaughter RCWS learned of these cases from Natasha Shaginian of Happy Families International, who also serves on our Russia Advisory Board. Since financial hardship is the main reason many children end up in orphanages to begin with, Ms. Shaginian suggested that RCWS provide direct financial assistance to needy families so as to prevent the needless creation of more orphans. As a result, the Society began a program offering material assistance to elder caregivers called "Grandma's House." We have also sponsored destitute single mothers who otherwise would have been forced to give up their children. The Association of Child Psychologists in Moscow monitors recipients of RCWS aid, with whom we worked following the Beslan disaster in The Association runs a proj- ect offering practical training to the guardians and adoptive parents of at-risk children. Emergency psychological assistance is also available to guide families through crisis periods. Additionally, the Association runs a "Family Club" so that guardians can socialize, find mutual support and build friendships. An aid recipient of RCWS Granny project NY Office Director Anna Sergeeva- Gross met with several of the grandmothers and their families supported by RCWS during an onsite visit this past April. Tearfully, they all expressed their deepest gratitude for being able to keep their families intact and help the children flourish. For a relatively small cost we are sparing children the horror of separation from their loved ones. RCWS encourages friends to "Adopt a Granny" to help us expand this very worthwhile and promising program. Detention Center for Teenagers in Mozhaisk Western news outlets have reported widely on the abhorrent conditions within the Russian prison system and the dangerously high number of inmates suffering from tuberculosis. The release of prisoners who have the potential to spread the disease to the general population obviously presents a huge public health risk. The Federal Prison for Teenagers in Mozhaisk, located 150 miles outside of Moscow, struggles with this very problem. The prison currently houses approximately 400 teenage inmates, 40% of whom are RCWS brings Christmas cheers to teenage inmates in Mozhaisk orphans. Many of these children have committed what would be considered minor crimes, but the Russian legal system has yet to work out alternative punishments for minors. The Society's work in orphanages has been aimed in part at preventing children from ending up in prison, but many still end up making poor choices and get involved in drugs and crime. The very humane administrators at the Mozhaisk Prison are doing the best they can to rehabilitate the youngsters, offer vocational training for when they get out, and protect their already weak health from infection with tuberculosis. Mortality from this disease is a staggering 50 times greater within prisons than in the population as a whole. The Society began a relationship with the prison by allocating $9,000 for the purchase of an X-Ray machine and the renovation of a diagnostic office so that tuberculosis can be detected and treated in a timely fashion. The Society visited the prison as part of its Christmas program in RCWS Moscow Office Director Ludmilla Koroleva delivered donations of candies and vitamins for the children. The inmates gave a concert for the visitors, but at first seemed extremely dejected. Our visit did improve their spirits considerably as we were the first organization to show that there are people who care about them. With your help, the RCWS hopes to develop programs that will offer positive inspiration to this very neglected segment of Russian youth, many of whom do not belong in such an environment.

4 Page 4 RCWS NEWS Vol. 11 Assisting Children with Hemophilia in St. Petersburg RCWS Honorary Board member, Suzanne Massie is best known for her highly respected work on Russian History, The Land of the Firebird. She should also be known for her crusade on behalf of homebound Russian children afflicted with hemophilia and other diseases and disabilities. Even before the fall of the Iron Curtain, Ms. Massie was demanding information from Soviet authorities on the whereabouts of disabled children, who remain hidden from society even today. Ms. Massie's focus on the plight of hemophiliacs in Russia stemmed from her own experience with her son. With the availability of blood transfusions and the eventual development of techniques to inject coagulant factors, her son was able to manage the disease and go on to earn degrees from three different Ivy League schools. In contrast, Russian children suffering from the same disease have been traditionally categorized as invalids. The perils of the disease keep children from attending a regular school in Russia, perpetuating a feeling of isolation and hindering the development of bright young minds. In 1990, during the era of "openness," Ms. Massie took a small but critical step toward changing attitudes toward the disabled in the Soviet Union. She launched a swimming program for young hemophiliacs in St. Petersburg. The most typical of childhood activities, exercise and play time with Suzanne Massie friends, was now afforded these struggling youngsters. By 1992, the Firebird Foundation was formed to fulfill Ms. Massie's vision of using computer technology to improve the sporadic and inadequate home schooling of homebound children. In its initial incarnation, the "Information Window on the World" project taught children the basics of information technology and foreign languages, and also organized field trips in and around St. Petersburg. By 1999, more and more families had computers, allowing the Firebird Foundation to set up on-line distance learning courses for homebound children. This "Supplementary Education" project not only helps them learn the regular school subjects, but also helps them gain facility with computers, thereby enhancing job prospects. Through this very practical program, many hemophiliacs have gone on to gain entry in institutes and technical colleges. Anatoly Makeevich describes Suzanne Massie as his "second mother." In 1993, she arranged medical care for 12-year-old Tolya in the United States, the first Russian hemophiliac to be treated here. Anatoly is now a professional computer designer and medical student and a contributing member of Russian society. Clearly, the work of the Firebird Foundation has a definitive impact on children. Ms. Massie's current focus is on identifying all children in St. Petersburg with disabilities that prevent regular school attendance, and equipping their homes with computers to facilitate virtual learning. RCWS has supported the Firebird Foundation's forward-thinking and innovative initiative with an initial $10,000 grant. Suzanne Massie is a firebrand, overturning archaic attitudes toward disability and disease in Russia, and harnessing the possibilities of modern technology to do so. She has also expressed her interest in replicating this computer project in orphanages. We hope her model achieves success throughout Russia. St. Nicholas School for Needy Children in Kislovodsk The St. Nicholas School in Kislovodsk is gearing up for its 15th anniversary in Since its founding, the school, a non-governmental institution, has faced an uphill battle to secure sufficient funding to create a safe and sound environment where youngsters can undertake a rigorous classical curriculum. Ongoing political conflict in the Caucasus region has also had an inevitable impact on the St. Nicholas community. Since 1999, the Society has assisted the school (built in 1898) with capital repairs, such as window installation, new plumbing and heating systems, and a new roof. The school's administration points out that RCWS support has allowed them to accommodate all 210 students, extending from grades one to eleven, in one session. Further RCWS assistance helps underwrite food, medicine, sporting equipment and financial help for needy students. The Society and its supporters have thereby helped to provide Future artist creating early master piece a secure structure for learning and have contributed to the physical health and well being of the students. This has enabled the excellent teachers at the St. Nicholas School to build a First day of school government- accredited program that trains the students in languages ancient and modern (Greek, Latin, Old Church Slavonic, and English), Orthodox traditions, information technology, and the gamut of other required courses. Owing to the unique and strong academic offerings of the School, St. Nicholas graduates have successfully attained admission to prestigious post secondary programs in the humanities as well as technical schools. A special thanks goes out to Mr. and Mrs. Serge Timasheff for their ongoing friendship to the Society and the St. Nicholas School! "Big Change" Center for Social Transition Orphans in Russia usually follow one of three educational tracks. Those deemed intellectually capable and fully socialized will live at an orphanage, but attend a regular school. Others with learning disabilities will be taught at a school, or internat, on the premises of the orphanage. The third category is for children with psycho-neurological issues, considered "unteachable" and who basically learn to read and count. Not surprisingly, orphans are, on average, 6-7 years behind their peers in educational level when they finish school. Given this fact, how are orphans expected to survive once they graduate? While the government provides orphans with open entry into an institution of higher learning, they often drop out after the first semester, not understanding the work ethic involved in getting accepted to college, lacking in basic knowledge and not knowing how to study. Without life skills and academic or professional training, many fall in with tricksters and criminals, and end up as prostitutes or drug abusers living on the streets. Irina Ryazanova, Director of the "Bolshaya Peremena" ("Big Change") educational center in Moscow, understands that supplemental education is what orphans need to CONTINUED ON PAGE 10

5 Fall 2006 RCWS NEWS Page 5 RCWS "Yelka" Party in Moscow Largest Ever Close to 1,800 children participated in Christmas and New Year's celebrations this past winter thanks to RCWS sponsorship and organization! Our main event, the annual "Yelka", took place at the Children's Palace in Moscow. The 1,000 orphans in attendance received gifts and a hot lunch, and enjoyed an afternoon of entertainment. Yuri Medvedev, a clown with Cirque du Soleil, was on hand to greet and amuse the youngsters. World champion figure skater Maria Butyrskaya also added warmth to the atmosphere. Russian television station Vesti Moskva covered the Yelka on its daily broadcast. Some of the participants traveled quite a distance to enjoy the holiday in the capital, coming from orphanages in Tula, Pskov, Smolensk, Ryazan, Kaluga, and the Moscow environs. One young girl from Pskov wrote us this heartwarming thank you letter: "The streets of Moscow were decorated with trees and garlands. Everything glittered and sparkled. It felt like the city was just waiting for the holiday. Warmth and comfort awaited us at the Children's Palace. Everything was beautiful: a big pool with fish and exotic plants. But the most important thing - they were happy for us and were waiting for His first Christmas party us." From another Ded Moroz greeting young participants at the Children s Palace letter: "I would like to thank the Russian Children's Welfare Society for the trip to Moscow. I liked it very much. I especially enjoyed the girl gymnast who was swirling 16 hula-hoops at one time! For the first time, I saw the Moscow subway and rode the train and escalator. We also went to a museum and to a church and lit candles. We looked at icons with angels on them. Then we watched the "changing of the guard" ceremony at the Eternal Flame on Red Square. After that we took a trolleybus and enjoyed Moscow through the windows. Again, thank you very much for this trip!" We would like to thank the Zodiak Company for donating 600 boxes of sweet treats for the party and to Lidia Ivanova of the Preodolenie-L rehabilitation Center for help in transporting them. We are also grateful to the Severnaya Korona Foundation and the Primakov Foundation for helping transport orphans from the more distant locales to Moscow. In addition to the Yelka at the Children's Palace, RCWS visited children's hospital wards with clowns from the "Chudaki" theatre group, who distributed toys and funny balloons to the little patients. With the collaboration of Sapar Kulianov of the "Shelter for Childhood," the Society also visited a prison for juvenile inmates in Mozhaisk. Thank you to Peter Korovin and Maria Kulianova for reprising their roles as Ded Moroz and Snegurochka! In addition to sweets, the Society passed along a donation of vitamins courtesy of Nicolai Peletsky of the Ecomir Company. Generous donations Participants from Pskov orphanages at Red Square from friends to the Society extended further holiday cheer to needy children. RCWS Russia Advisory Board member Natasha Shaginian donated tickets to 100 orphans and disabled children in Moscow for the Yelka hosted by the President's Administration. She also donated 50 tickets to the New Year's Party at the Gelikon Opera for children from Novomoskovsk. Irina Kudrina, President of Severnaya Korona Foundation and a member of RCWS Russia Advisory Board donated 25 tickets to the show "Peter Pan on Ice," benefiting disabled orphans from Krasnaya Dubrava. Our Yelka party means a lot to children in need during the holidays. What began as a modest venture less than 10 years ago has become one of Russia's most important orphan children's holiday events. RCWS Donates New Laser Endoscopic Equipment to Moscow Children's Hospital of Emergency Surgery and Trauma Children have been particularly hard hit by the crisis in the Russian healthcare system. No one knows this better than Dr. Leonid Roshal, Director of the Moscow Children's Research Institute of Emergency Surgery and Trauma. According to Dr. Roshal, poor food, the polluted environment, the lack of public health programs and a broken down healthcare system have led to a child mortality rate that is twice the European average. The severe lack of pediatricians leads to the doubling of each doctor's caseload, and approximately 70% of the medical equipment in hospitals is outdated or broken down. In December 2005, RCWS provided the Moscow Children's Research Institute with a $16,000 grant for the purchase of minimally invasive endoscopic surgical equipment to treat trauma to the joints. This highly sophisticated tool will prevent children from needlessly becoming invalids, which was the typical result of operations using traditional methods. Recovery time from sustained injuries will also be 2-3 times faster. An untold number of children will be helped through this donation. The facility treats 25% of all immediate children's trauma On behalf of RCWS, Ludmilla Koroleva presents new equipment to Dr. Leonid Roshal and pathology cases in Moscow. Annually, the Institute cares for 8,000 children at the hospital and up to 50,000 more at its outpatient trauma unit. The hospital staff is now using the endoscope in almost all of its surgeries. RCWS is very proud of its association with Dr. Roshal and the highly dedicated team of doctors at the Children's Institute. Dr. Roshal is a very distinguished and wellrespected person in Russia, known as the "Children's Doctor of the World." He headed up the emergency medical effort after terrorists besieged a school in Beslan in September To his credit, he has also authored or co-authored 6 books and over 150 scientific publications, and is a consummate professional and humanitarian. While hospitals in Russia are still in great need of modernization, we believe that RCWS support of this medical project will be a significant factor in saving the lives of many children.

6 Page 6 RCWS NEWS Vol. 11 FROM PAGE 1 RCWS Scholarship Program Continues to Expand know any of the teachers. The demands on us are much tougher than in school I want to thank the Russian Children's Welfare Society. The material assistance I receive every month is helping me realize my lifelong dream." Elena Andreeva, one of our first two scholarship recipients, is also doing well, receiving 4's and 5's (the top two ratings in the Russian scale) at the Idritsa Agricultural College. She recently told us that she will try to further her education in St. Petersburg or Velikiye Luky after finishing her course of study in June While the Society maintains close contact with the scholarship recipients, we believe it is also very important that they keep in touch with each other. This summer, we sponsored our second annual gathering of students in Pskov. The day began with an interview with a reporter from "Pskovskaya Pravda," which has been closely covering the progress of the Pskov orphanages. Next on the agenda was lunch at a cafe, followed by a boat tour on the Velikaya River. The group was very enthusiastic about the chance to share their experiences with some of their old friends and ten of our scholarship awardees were in attendance. Daria Rubatskaya, whose scholarship at the Pskov College of Economics and Civil Construction is underwritten by Peter Semler, wrote about the reunion: "The time flew by quickly and it was almost the end of our tour. We were a little sad to say good-bye to each other - some had to rush to catch their train or bus. Tatiana Bodrova from the Pskov Children's Fund wished us a good summer and we parted. It was a wonderful day. We had a lot of fun! I would like to thank you for arranging such meetings. We need them!" Marina, Valentina and Andrey - RCWS scholarship recipients in Yaroslavl Recipient, Andrei Loginov gives an interview to a local reporter on RCWS Scholarship Project Events like this make the orphans feel special. They have no homes to go to during vacation and holidays. And the scholarship program is giving these young Russians a real chance to construct decent lives for themselves. Only 4% of orphanage graduates are admitted to vocational schools or colleges, while the rest end up in the claws of poverty or crime. The RCWS Scholarship Program shows that we can make a substantial difference in the lives of a few. The Society will keep its supporters informed of the project's expansion into Yaroslavl, and hopefully to other areas of Russia. We encourage our friends to support this important project! A Letter from Elena Andreeva, RCWS Scholarship Recipient Dear American Friends, Elena Andreeva, starting 4th year in college I am a student at the Idritsa Agricultural College and my name is Elena Andreeva. I would first like to thank the Russian Children's Welfare Society and its supporters for the financial support I have been given. It has played a large role in my life and in my studies. In 2006 there have been many changes and new experiences in my life, both good and bad. Thanks to RCWS though, there have been more good things that have happened to me. With RCWS help and support I was able to accommodate my dorm room with many necessary items. I could, for example, purchase a couch, rug, comforter, tablecloth, washing machine, kettle, vacuum cleaner and many other items. I am able to buy those shoes and clothes, which I like. Your financial support has also helped me enormously in my studies. Academics are my first priority, and thanks to you I do not have to worry about other problems, which may arise unexpectedly. For example, when my father died I had no money to pay for his funeral, but through your help I was able to give him a respectful burial. I would like to thank RCWS contributors even before we meet face to face for this act of kindness and to say how much it means to me. I learned a great deal this academic year about the Veterinary field. I studied various subjects including epizoology, internal noninfectious diseases, toxicology, artificial insemination of farm animals, fish and bee diseases, midwifery, surgery and many other topics. This year (my fourth) I am already licensed to work as an operating surgeon for artificial insemination. I received nearly the highest marks for my summer classes. There were four exams: Internal noninfectious diseases, artificial insemination, midwifery, and surgery. I received the highest marks on these tests. I also experienced change on an artistic level. I started singing in an ensemble. We have already performed a concert at our collge in the festivals, "Last Day of Classes," "Vacation," and we also traveled to the city Cibezh, where they were having their own town celebrations. We performed on a large stage in front of a big audience. Our efforts were not in vain; many audience members and people from Cibezh enjoyed our concert greatly. There are many new students in the school who have turned out to be kind people. I am able to speak candidly with some of them about the intimate details of my life. We go on walks together, and in our free time we go hiking, think up different games to play, sing songs while playing the guitar, take pictures, and go swimming. It has been a very happy time in my life. There is one year of school left until graduation, which I have awaited anxiously for these past three years. Time has flown by unnoticed of course; we have all grown up and entered adulthood. Many of my classmates plan on settling down with a family after graduation. I want to go on for a higher degree. I would like to be accepted to the Lenningradskii Institute, but in the event that I do not make it in because of how competitive it is, I plan on attending the Vilikoleskaya Agricultural Academy. It is slightly easier to enroll there and I am hoping on my strength to pull me through. I think I will be accepted. Well I will most likely end my letter here. I would like to thank RCWS again for the foundation's continual support and for its presence in my life. I thank you and all those who support RCWS from the bottom of my heart, and I wish you all good health, and success in everything! It seems that people like you are few and far between in the world Good Bye! With My Greatest Respect, Elena Andreeva

7 Fall 2006 RCWS NEWS Page 7 The "Maria's Children" Rehabilitation Center "Maria's Children," an art rehabilitation center for orphaned children, recently celebrated its 10th anniversary at the American Grill Bar in Moscow. Over 100 children attended the party and enjoyed performances by professional clowns, musicians and singers. Most of them will tell you, without too much prompting, just how important Maria and her art therapy programs have been to them. The casual visits of Maria Yeliseeva to Moscow orphanages very quickly blossomed into the establishment of a haven for young children longing to express themselves. By drawing murals and working on other art projects in such friendly company, the orphans start to come out of their shells and learn positive interaction skills. During 10th Anniversary Celebration of Maria s Center Maria Yelisseeva, Founder and Director of the Center Pasha Avdoshin, one of the former students, told us of Maria's deep commitment to the well being of program participants: "Maria selected one child per week from our group to come and spend the weekend with her so that we could get used to family life. Because in our school the children either had no parents at all or their parents abandoned them " Pasha also spoke of the loyalty that Maria and her husband, Ilya, have generated in the orphans: "Maria did a whole lot for us, the older kids, for me. I consider Maria and Ilya my real parents. Now it is our turn to show that we won't forget what they gave us - affection, care, the right direction in life - and we will go down that right path. I'm grateful to them for everything. And I'll help them however I can." While Maria clearly has a touch with children, the programs she runs are also substantive. As a painter, Maria is able to help students with technique to produce beautiful artwork that has been exhibited throughout Russia and the United States. Maria also established a collaboration with the world famous Patch Adams clowns. Together, Maria's children and Former student Pasha Avdoshin the clowns visit hospitals and orphanages to help spread cheer to the less fortunate. RCWS is supporting Maria's latest effort to help prepare orphans for life as independent adults with a $5,000 grant. The center will train 40 teenagers on legal issues, psychology, cooking and independent living over 10 sessions and help them anticipate the challenges of post-orphanage life. Further consultations will also be available after the trainings have concluded. The Society agrees wholeheartedly with orphan Slava Kirillov, who wrote that if he could change the world, he would want more places like "Maria's Children," where a child can get to know another world. Orphanage in Novomoskovsk A Special Home for Abandoned Children RCWS regards its commitment to orphanages as more than just offering food and clothing. Our involvement aims to help foster the multifaceted development of children into independent human beings. Mr. Anatoly Ovchinnikov, director of the Novomoskovsk Orphanage No. 2 in Tula, shares this approach and has made his collaboration with the Society a fruitful one. Since 1998, RCWS funds have made possible the following enhancements to the Novomoskovsk orphanage: a new minibus, modern sporting equipment, a mini computer lab, library equipment, audio/video equipment, an industrial washing machine, Future builder at the carpentry workshop Learning IT skills at the new computer facility, sponsored by RCWS furniture, educational resources, and sponsoring field trips. Mr. Ovchinnikov recently sent us a very enthusiastic report on the positive effect these various resources are having on the mental and physical growth of the orphans. Since the vast majority of the children suffer from poor health (Novomoskovsk was contaminated by the Chernobyl disaster), the availability of modern sporting equipment for physical education classes has been a critical boost to their strength and health. Computer training classes are imparting an indispensable skill for a working life. And the minibus has liberated the youngsters from the confines of the orphanage, enabling administrators to organize trips to local places of interest. In addition to all of the new activities that are helping the orphans build confidence as individuals, memorable trips to Moscow and St. Petersburg seem to have left the greatest impression of all. Mr. Ovchinnikov conveyed the children's delight: "It is impossible to measure the emotions and the impressions the trips made on the kids. But they certainly made each child, though left at a disadvantage by fate, a little bit happier - and this is precisely the goal of our work with the Society. This is what is priceless!" The staff and children at the orphanage have asked us to pass on their warmest greetings and thanks to their American friends and supporters! Thank you! Spasibo! to RCWS and it s supporters in America

8 Page 8 RCWS NEWS Vol. 11 Petroushka Ball 2006 at the Waldorf=Astoria FROM PAGE 1 "Okeanos" spa; a tin of tea "Rasputin" or "Akbar/Earl Grey," donated by Gregory Tolston, CFO NetCost Markets & Royal Seafood Baza Inc; delicious chocolates from A. Korkunov Chocolatier, Inc.; and a recent issue of Opera News magazine. A dazzling assortment of raffle prizes, graciously assembled by Mrs. Beatrice Fekula, was on display. The Grand Prize was a reproduction of the Fabergé "Rose Trellis Egg," presented to the Petroushka Ball by Mr. Michael Ruddy, President of the Fabergé Collection, The Essex Company Inc. The winners of the raffle and silent auction took home other fabulous prizes, including a reproduction of Fabergé's "The Fifteenth Anniversary Egg"; cufflinks by Alex Soldier; two tickets to the All- Star Stravinsky Ballet at ABT; an Anna Netrebko DVD; art work from the series "Ballet" dedicated to Stravinsky by Valera and Natasha Cherkashin; a classic pearl collar and earrings by Masha Archer; a three course dinner and Natalia Glebova, champagne at Miss Universe Petrossian While there is still much work to be done, sustained RCWS involvement in the orphanages of the Pskov region is increasing the standard of living of abandoned children. Tatiana Bodrova, Director of the Pskov Children's Fund, has been instrumental in this success, identifying the best ways to advance the aims of the Russian Children's Welfare Society. Here is a brief update on the Pskov orphanages: The Opochka Specialized Orphanage completed the construction of a social rehabilitation complex where children learn the basics of managing a household: setting a table, washing linens, cleaning, etc. The orphanage also uses this space for holidays and special occasions where students share the food they have made. The next order of business is to establish a proper sports facility on the premises. Children are currently using dumbbells made from cans weighed down by sand and gravel. The Society allocated funds for sporting equipment that will make the kids stronger and healthier. Mr. and Mrs. Michael Jordan with Anna Netrebko and Rollando Villazón Restaurant; a bone china coffee set "Capital of the North" by Imperial Manufactory of St. Petersburg; a 16.5 oz jar of Creme De La Mer; a replica Maybach DS8 Zeppelin by Maybach USA; books "The Staging of the Nutcracker" and "The Magic Nut" signed by Mikhail Chemyakin; a $200 gift certificate at Galo Shoes; Cascade of Citron Earrings by "Nisha"; dinner for two at the Bull & Bear Restaurant; etchings by Ivan Valchev; a book "Reflections of Time Past: Natalya Nesterova"; a bottle of Georgian cogniac by Dozortsev & Sons; dinner for two at the Russian Samovar Restaurant; a trio of imported French wines; a book "Irina: Ballet Life and Love" signed by the author and RCWS Honorary Director - Irina Baronova; a gift basket of Caswell-Massey skincare products; dinner for two at Uncle Vanya Restaurant; a $200 gift certificate for flower arrangement by Inna Nagibina; and many other beautiful prizes. Special plaudits to Aton Securities, Alexandra Investment Management, Air France, Count and Countess Nicholas Pskov Orphanages Progress Report The Krasnogorodsky Specialized Orphanage recently received a Society grant that will provide new equipment for the carpentry workshops. The current tools in use are over 40 years old and desperately need to be updated. Since carpentry is a profession in high demand, a modernized workshop will help the employment prospects of the 62 male students at the orphanage. On a practical note, the young carpenters in training can apply their new skills to fixing up the orphanage itself. Students of Opochka Specialized Orphanage learning to manage a household Bobrinskoy, Katherine Brush, Dr. Donald Bronn and Mrs. Marina Arsenijevic, The Estée Lauder Companies Inc., FactSet Research System, Ekaterina and Richard Fields, Stephen and Susan Crane, Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Collazo, Mr. and Mrs. Vladimir Fekula, Mr. Alan Feuer, Mikhail and Natalia Filimonov, Mr. and Mrs. William Gallagher, Don Halldin and Anastassia Dorohova, Mr. and Mrs. Michael Jordan, Vadim and Elena Iosilevich, Eric and Olga Jorgensen, Tamara Kozlakowski, Dr. and Dr. Alexander Korenfeld, A. Korkunov Chocolatier, Konrad Kruger, Kevin Hunt and Elizabeth Lachmann, Elvina Levaya, Jacques Leviant, Joe Mattia and Tanya Zakharova, Mrs. Elena Mayakovskaya; Mr. John Medveckis, Princess Lucretia Obolensky and Mr. Frederick Mali, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas McPartland, Nelly and Imre Pakh, Mr. and Mrs. Douglas Paul, Mr. and Mrs. John Pouschine, Mr. Lewis Ranieri, Mr. Daniel Satchkov, Mr. Paul Rodzianko and Access Industries, Michael Ruddy and Fabergé Collection, Bella Sapir, Mr. Dimitry Schidlovsky, Mr. and Mrs. Constantine Sidamon-Eristoff, Mrs. Nika Thayer, Ioulia Sokolova, Mr. and Mrs. Roger Thompson, Michael Tokarz, Mr. and Dr. Gregory Tolston, Mr. Givi Topchishvili and Global Advertisement Strategies, Mr. Jeffrey Vanderveen, Dr. and Mrs. Robert Wickham, and Pavel Zadorozhny. Next year's Petroushka Ball will continue its long tradition as the most glamorous charity event of the social season on Friday, February 9, 2007 at the Waldorf=Astoria. The Pytalovo Specialized Orphanage is an institution for hearing impaired orphans and children from impoverished families. RCWS is supporting the purchase of critical speech therapy equipment, computers, microphones and headphones that are necessary to help these children overcome their disability. This technology will make lessons much more effective and improve students' ability to understand and speak intelligibly. The Opochka Pedagogical College recently sought RCWS assistance for the first time. The majority of the residents in the dormitory are orphans, who still endure horrific living conditions even after moving on to secondary education. There is currently only one stove for the 50 students and no hot water or laundry facilities. With the Society's support, the dorm will soon have new electrical appliances, shower equipment, washing-machine, water heater, furniture and dishes. We hope that, these changes will allow students to concentrate on their studies more. For more information on our work in the Pskov region, please see our article on the RCWS scholarship program.

9 Fall 2006 RCWS NEWS Page 9 New Apartments for Homeless Children in St. Petersburg The "Vera" Homeless Shelter recently opened its second group home for children abandoned to the streets of St. Petersburg. Shelter Director Georgy Sharkov navigated the city bureaucracy and was able to gain use of two apartments to establish family environments for children awaiting placement in foster care or adoptive families. The Russian Children's Welfare Society granted funds to renovate these new homes. Before the renovation The first apartment houses up to seven children between the ages of 4 and 12, while the second accommodates teens ranging from 14 to 17. Each group lives with caretakers who try to ready the youngsters for their new families, teaching them about responsibility while offering warmth, attention, and a place to celebrate birthdays and holidays. A bed of one's own and a quiet space for study is a big deal for kids traumatized by the most unimaginable of circumstances. Yulia's mother, for example, brought her all the way from Ukraine, only to leave her in a store. Sixyear-old Vitya lived with his drunken parents in a fish warehouse. Fifteen-year-old Kolya was on his own after his mother died, and ended up infected with tuberculosis. All have finally found refuge in these new group homes. Not surprisingly, the "Vera" shelter's motto is: "Every child should have a family." The staff tries to reunite children with their bio- Assisting Children with Cerebral Palsy and Down's Syndrome Learning to paint and overcome disabilities The Preodolenie-L Rehabilitation Center in Moscow currently assists over 180 children who are trying to "overcome" various disabilities, such as cerebral palsy, Down's Syndrome, hearing impairment, blindness, diabetes, autism, and scoliosis. The children work in integrated groups where they learn patience, social interaction and how to help others. The mandatory involvement of parents also greatly helps the rehabilitative process. In operation since 1992, the Center has treated many children and seen many success stories. Maksim came to Preodolenie at the age of three. Cerebral palsy left him unable to sit, speak normally, or even hold his head up. He can now sit independently in a chair and on a horse and is exhibiting signs of intellectual development. For other victims of cerebral palsy, standing and walking hand in hand with their mothers is a huge achievement. Three autistic children, Vika, Roma, and Kolya, have begun to speak and cooperate in group activi- Group activities at the Preodolenie-L Center ties. One of the Center's innovative offerings is "horse therapy" at a nearby stable. Children are able to transfer the physical skills acquired on horseback to improve their posture, walking and sitting. The children also have a large number of other activities to choose from: theatre studio, flute studio, choreography, singing, flower arranging, beadwork, haircutting workshops, computer class and English class. All classes are free and run by professional teachers, psychologists, speech therapists and hippotherapists. The Society's most recent grant of $6,000 will be used to buy equipment for the Center's "Theatre on Wheels" program. All of the children and staff work with professional artists to put on concerts and shows that are then performed at other orphanages, schools and hospitals. New costumes, lighting equipment and other stage devices to make their performances better than ever will surely delight the youngsters! Little residents seating at their newly renovated room logical families, when that is a desirable outcome, or find families willing to give these young victims a normal upbringing. Given the acute problem of under funded orphanages in Russia, the "Vera" project merits praise because it tries to avoid the institutionalizing of children as much as possible. The "Vera" shelter is currently working to secure a third apartment by 2007 to provide a home for victims of abuse. RCWS will need your help to make sure funds are available. RCWS Welcomes New Board Member Mr. Peter Tcherepnine, born in1939 in Paris, France, has joined the RCWS Board of Directors. He is the son of the highly respected composer Alexander Tcherepnine ( ) and Hsien Ming, a talented Chinese pianist. Peter's grandfather Nicolas Tcherepnine ( ) was also a distinguished composer. After attending schools in Paris and Chicago, Peter graduated from Harvard College. He spent two years in the U. S. Army as a Lieutenant, Artillery and joined Loeb, Rhoades & Company on Wall Street in He has been with that firm and its successors for his entire business career. Currently, Peter is President of Loeb Partners Management, Inc. and Executive Vice President of Loeb Partners Corp. His principal activity is managing money in individual and pension accounts as well as an offshore hedge fund. He describes himself as "an experienced investment manager and private speculator with a strong preference for stocks after 40 years of experience." Mr. Tcherepnine currently is chairman of Technology Colleges Trust Foundation; is on the Board of the American Institute for Foreign Study; is a Trustee of Richmond University in London and is an Advisory Board Member of the Dutchess Land Conservancy. He was formerly Vice Chairman of the ASPCA and a board member of the China Institute. His wife, Jessica Tcherepnine, is an acclaimed botanical artist. She is currently a director of the American Society of Botanical Artists. Peter has two children by a previous marriage. With the election of Peter Tcherepnine, the RCWS Board is at its full complement of fifteen.

10 Page 10 RCWS NEWS Vol. 11 Petroushka on the Hudson 2006 The 5th Annual Petroushka on the Hudson cruise took place on Friday, June 9th, After a week of rainy weather, the forecast proved wrong and our guests enjoyed a pleasant and clear evening as the World Yacht "Princess" sailed around the Statue of Liberty, up the East River to the U.N. and back to Pier 81. Started in 2001 to introduce the younger generation to the Society's important work, the cruise has quickly grown into a highly anticipated late spring event, attracting approximately 250 attendees. Petroushka on the Hudson has Barynya Balalaika Trio sailing the Hudson "Big Change" Center for Social Transition FROM PAGE 4 help them succeed in college. Since its founding in 2002, "Bolshaya Peremena" has helped over 50 children successfully complete an individualized program that helps them shore up learning deficits and pass entrance examinations to vocational colleges and schools. Students learn important study skills and are acquainted with various professions before working toward entry to a particular school. To catch up academically, students enroll in classes at the center for 8 months, in hopes of passing a high school equivalency exam. Many simply don't know how to work independently or on sustained projects. Students participate in conferences where they are expected to give reports and engage in debates on certain topics to help them develop cognitive skills. The students have access to a small library and computers to help them with their schoolwork. The center also organizes excursions and trips to the theatre to expand cultural knowledge. The availability of special education programs in American schools, and the right of parents to demand that the state provide a sound education for their children regardless of their special needs, is part of the social safety net that still needs to be developed in Russia. Programs like "Bolshaya Peremena" are filling in the gap, but rely on outside support to help them succeed. RCWS recently offered the center a grant toward program costs. gained popularity among many young professionals, including those who were born and raised in Russia, in addition to first and secondgeneration Russian-American supporters. It is hoped that these individuals will ensure the continuance of the Society's philanthropic efforts in the years to come. While dining on the wonderful sit-down buffet or taking libation from the open bar, our always attractive guests were treated to stunning views of New York City throughout the evening. They also danced to a variety of Russian, gypsy, Broadway, Euro and contemporary music selections. One of the event's highlights was a performance by Mikhail Smirnov and the Barynya Balalaika Trio. A silent auction took place on the main deck, with gift donations that included: sculptures "Zhar-Ptitsa" and "Ballerina" by Imperial Porcelain Manufactory; book "Russkaya Emigratsia v Fotografiakh"; a catalog of the exhibit Russia!; Kousmichoff Tea by Vladimir Fekula and Veronika Part, ABT DeMedici Imports; Jewel of Russia Vodka presented by the BMC Imports; chocolate courtesy of A. Korkunov Chocolatier; and other prizes. Each of the female guests also received a long-stemmed rose upon disembarking from the yacht. Special thanks to Michael Jordan and Aton Securities, Daniel Satchkov, Antony Jang, Marus Lahrkamp, Nadia Lipsky, Anatoly Vishnevetsky, Victoria Mintz and A. Korkunov Chocolatier, DeMedici Imports, Ltd., Inna Nagibina and The Soft Orchid Flower & Gift Shop, Art Saguirian at BMC Imports, Tatiana Sarandinaki, John Triolo at World Yacht, and many other friends of the Society for making our 5th Petroushka on the Hudson such a success. RCWS Celebrates 80th Anniversary This year, the Russian Children's Welfare Society proudly celebrates the 80th anniversary of its founding in The original organizers announced their commitment to improving the lives of Russian children throughout the world at the 125th Street YMCA in New York City. They embarked on their mission with a modest contribution that was sent to support Russian shelters in Latvia, and their legacy certainly lives on in the Society's many programs today. The direction of the Russian Children's Welfare Society has been steered by many of the 20th century's tumultuous events. The Bolshevik Revolution of 1917 prompted the emigration of large numbers of Russians to Europe, Asia, North and South America. By the early thirties, the Society had ten branches operating throughout the United States and was sending money and material assistance to schools and organizations assisting Russian children in locales as diverse as Estonia, Poland, Finland, France, Germany, Yugoslavia, Bulgaria, Czechoslovakia, Harbin, Shanghai and Istanbul. The charity was specifically set up to help children outside of Russia. The occupation of many of these countries during World War II suspended much of the Society's work, which was prohibited after American entry to the war in After the liberation of France in 1944, the Society worked very closely with the American Committee for Assistance to France and managed to send $25,000 in cash, food and clothing. By 1945, RCWS assistance was providing hot breakfasts in French schools, serving approximately 1,100 children. During WWII, the Society's leadership decided to professionalize its operations. RCWS eventually gained recognition by the Presidential War Relief Control Board as an approved charity for work abroad during the war. By 1950, the Society was again sending relief to 14 countries. With the dawn of the Cold War, it became all but impossible for the Society to send aid to countries that fell behind the "iron curtain." The Society did carry on its work helping Russian children in western European countries, particularly France, as well as the Far East, South America and the United States. With the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, the Society again shifted its focus and resources to the many impoverished children living in Russia today. Fortunately, the Society received a $4.5 million bequest from the estate of John Engalitcheff, Jr. in Through the Society's prudent investments and frugal financial practices, we are now able to channel 100% of our donations to help sick and needy children and orphans in Russia today. The most recent audited financial statement, dated December 31, 2005 show perhaps the most productive year in our history. Contributions and revenue from fundraising events totaled $722,112. The Society disbursed $725, 463 in direct aid to children principally to Russia. Some of our programs are described throughout this newsletter. The Society is proud of its accomplishments in its 80-year history, and pays tribute to all of our predecessors and donors who transformed the organization into one of the leading charities in Russia today. Along the way, great and important traditions such as the Petroushka Ball in New York and the Yelka Party in Moscow have given the Russian community and its friends an opportunity to celebrate Russian culture and advance the cause of Russian children in need. RCWS remains resolute in its mission and will continue to find ways to implement innovative programs in the 21st century, despite the unpredictability of world events.

11 Fall 2006 RCWS NEWS Page 11 RCWS Grants to Russia in Orphanages and Shelters: "Shelter for Childhood," Moscow -$20,000 to cover electricity expenses for 12 months, new electric boiler, salary of a caretaker/ instructor for 1 year, food and other basic expenses for accommodating 4 homeless teenagers. Orphanage #2, Novomoskovsk, Tula region -$8,800 grant in 2006 toward a computer and vocational training equipment, books, supplies; $12,000 grant in 2005 to obtain an industrial washer/dryer and iron, furniture, and provide educational seminars and local sightseeing tours for the students. Opochka Orphanage, Pskov region -$11,074 grant in 2005 to purchase carpenter's benches, cabinetmaking and metalworking tools, electric sewing machine, ironing board and sewing supplies. Krasno-Dubravski Orphanage, Moscow region -$14,869 grant in 2005 for creating a summer play ground and walking/cycling path. Specialized Orphanage for Children with Learning Disabilities, Velikij Novgorod -$5,000 in 2005 to cover new dental equipment; $3,173 direct contribution in 2006 to cover the cost and installation of new industrial size dryer. Many thanks to The Edmond and Virginia Moriarty Foundation for their on-going support. Opochka Specialized Orphanage, Pskov region -$13,146 in 2006 to purchase equipment for sporting facilities/gym. (See article, p. 8) Krasnogorodsky Specialized Orphanage, Pskov - $8,586 in 2006 to purchase cabinet making and carpentry equipment (See article, p. 8) Pytalovo Specialized Orphanage, Pskov region - $6,641 for equipment for hearing impaired students. (See article, p. 8) Hospitals and Rehabilitation Centers: All-Russia Children's Hospital for HIV-infected children, St. Petersburg - $10,000 to the hospital to hire 9 professionals to provide education and psychological assistance to 26 HIV infected orphans. (See article, p. 2) The Smile Train Project - continued funding of cleft surgeries by the local partner hospitals and co-sponsorship of the II Training Symposium in Moscow (See article, p. 2). RCWS and The Smile Train designated over $50,000 toward this project. Children's Research Institute of Emergency Surgery and Trauma, Moscow - $16,000 for endoscopic surgical equipment. (See article, p. 5) Rehabilitation Center "Inspiration", Nikolskoe-Gagarino - $10,600 grant in 2005 toward food, furniture, vocational training equipment, art supplies, and clothing for children; $12,792 grant in 2006 toward food for children and utilities expenses. Also, this year the FactSet Research Systems made a direct contribution of $10,000 toward the center's activities. The Firebird Foundation - $10,000 grant toward the computer learning project for homebound hemophiliacs in St. Petersburg. (See article, p. 4) Rehabilitation Center "Maria's Children", Moscow - $5,000 grant toward summer sessions for 40 children, which include training on legal issues, psychology, cooking, and independent living. (See article, p. 7) "Preodolenie -L" Center for Vocational and Creative Rehabilitation of Disabled Children, Moscow - $6,000 grant to underwrite expenses of their children's theatre. (See article, p. 9) St. Petersburg Children's Fund "Aurora" - $10,000 grant toward special computer software, repairs and equipment for 3 classrooms and 3 playing rooms, special furniture for children with musculoskeletal system disorders, floor carpeting for classes, and bathroom repairs. Schools: Russian Orthodox School, Tutaev - $10,684 grant in 2005 to establish carpentry and sewing workshops; $12,502 grant in 2006 toward equipment for Computer Science and Art Education classrooms, renovation of school facilities, furniture, and food. St. Nicolas School, Kislovodsk - $18,250 grant in 2005 to cover furniture for classrooms and dining room; $11,900 grant in 2006 to cover food, sporting equipment, etc. (See article, p. 4) Pushkin school in Novomoskovsk, Tula region - $10,000 grant toward books, office supplies, sponsorship of students in national and international contests, and renovation of school facilities in 2005; $8,000 grant in 2006 toward books, subscription to magazines, supplies, and transportation. Children's Russian Orthodox School, Avraamlev Monastery, Rostov - $7,000 grant toward textbooks, furniture, equipment for Chemistry, Physics and computer classes, sporting equipment; uniforms and shoes for children, food, renovation of the school. St. Alexis School and Orphanage, Novoalexeevka - $10,000 grant for roof repairs. Other Beslan Relief Fund - RCWS directed over $50,000 to assist victims in Beslan. Federal Prison for Teenagers in Mozhaisk -$9,059 grant to renovate diagnostic room & purchase a new X-Ray machine to diagnose and prevent tuberculosis and other diseases. (See article, p. 3) Opochka Pedagogical College, Pskov region - $4,238 grant to equip the student's dormitory facilities. (See article, p.8) (List incomplete) How You Can Help RCWS is a non-profit 501 (c) (3) organization recognized by the IRS. Tax ID # The Society relies on private donations to support its various programs. Our endowment allows 100% of donations go directly to help Russian children. We are also seeking corporate sponsors to help fund our ongoing programs in Russia. All contributions are tax deductible. Save the Date! 42th Annual Petroushka Ball at the Waldorf Astoria, February 9th, 2007 call RCWS at for tickets, ads, auction donations and special sponsorships. Please join us in helping - and thank you in advance for your kind support! Please accept my gift of $ Please direct my gift to: _Orphanages & Homeless Shelters _Medical Programs _Scholarship Program I enclose my check Please debit my credit card (Master Card, Visa, or American Express) No Expires Signature I wish to make a gift of stock. Please contact me. I/We have remembered RCWS in our Will. Please contact me. I can help with RCWS fundraising activities. Please contact me. I would like to volunteer. Name Address City State Zip Phone PLEASE CONTACT US WITH COMMENTS OR QUESTIONS: Vladimir P. Fekula, President & CEO Anna Sergeeva-Gross, Director of New York Office Masha Vorobieva, Director of Development Ludmilla Koroleva, Director of Moscow Office Zhanna Petrenko, Accountant RUSSIAN CHILDREN'S WELFARE SOCIETY 200 PARK AVENUE SOUTH,SUITE 1617 NEW YORK, NY RCWS, MAIN@RCWS.ORG,

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