While China has experienced significant economic growth and development in recent decades, the situation for children with disabilities has not improved at the same pace. Societal perceptions of disability and lack of support services often leaves families desperate for help.
International China Concern – a licensed non-governmental organization (“FNGO”) operating in Hunan province – has been providing quality care and services to children and families since 1993. Partnering on the grounds of government run orphanages and pioneering programs to help keep families together, ICC has impacted the lives of thousands of children with disabilities.
Newport Beach -American Friends of ICC held their 3rd Annual “Stand For Children” Gala reflecting on ICC’s “Roots of Strength: Nurturing Growth, Innovation, and Love.” Held at the Renaissance Newport Beach Hotel, 180 guests attended.
ICC Founder/CEO, David Gotts, spoke about the three fruitful aspects of ICC’s transformative work: growth of children, families, and supporters; innovation to face complex and changing needs; and a deep love that has fueled the work every day. Keegan Ferrell, China adoptee and singer/songwriter/producer and multi-instrumentalist contestant on NBC’s The Voice, Season 20, released his new song “Had it not been for your Hands” at the event. Based upon his own experiences, it also reflected on the collective power others have on the lives of vulnerable children. His brother, Casey Ferrell – Pastor of Young Adults at Emmanuel Community Church in Fort Wayne, Indiana served as our MC along with Elaine Wong, a devout sister in faith, a former entertainment news anchor.
Nora Gao, AFICC Executive Director said this about the event – “Tonight wasn’t just a celebration – it was a powerful reminder that when hearts unite for children, transformation happens. Every story shared, every performance given, and every gift made carries the potential to change a child’s life from isolation to belonging, from despair to hope. For over three decades, ICC has been nurturing growth through family-style care, innovating to meet complex challenges, and showing deep love to every child we serve. The incredible generosity shown tonight will help ensure that even more vulnerable children and families receive the comprehensive care and support they desperately need. As we look to the future, I’m profoundly inspired by the possibilities that lie ahead as we continue to stand together for these precious lives.”
About ICC: As one of the few remaining international nonprofits serving children in China, ICC is uniquely positioned to be a service leader that provides hope to vulnerable children. UNICEF estimates there are 5.8 million children with disabilities in China; 98% of children who are abandoned in China have disabilities. Due to disability stigmas and lack of support services, families often feel they have few options for their child. ICC partners on the ground of government run welfare centers and offers a comprehensive program supporting families and children. Free access to multi-disciplinary teams of teachers, therapy providers and social support helps transform the lives of vulnerable children bringing them out of isolation into a community that loves and respects them.
“With ICC’s support, I no longer need to fear the future. At one time, I felt myself and my two children were a burden on society. Now I know there are people in the world who care about you and want to help.” – Chinese Mother of 2 children with disabilities.
