Our Lifetime children... or those who have not been adopted, fostered or returned to their biological families, will be placed within specialized programs tailored to their unique talents and dreams. They will participate within their township by attending the public schools and festivals, as well as being involved in community projects and services.
Life within the Village will be set up much as traditional family life is elsewhere. The homes will be clean and orderly, with a variety of children of different ages being placed within each home. Chores and household responsibilities will be given each child, as well as care for their younger "siblings." These children will learn responsibility towards one another, as well as in animal care, gardening, mechanics, sewing, school work, etc.
The Spark of Light Village will establish a bank account in each child's name and will continue to fund this account. All money will be earned - whether through daily chores, handicrafts sold, or jobs obtained at an older age. What we wish to encourage is self-sufficiency, self-respect, and a sense of accomplishment. These children will also be taught lessons about economics and the value of money. This account will continue to grow until the child reaches 18 years or legal adulthood.
At that time, the money in the account will be available to empower the young adult to make choices in his/her life. Important decisions will be made relating to education, housing, employment, etc. with a feeling of security and hope, combined with skill and a strong work ethic. This will allow them to step into life with the confidence needed to build a bright future.
Life timers will also participate in our Mentoring or Extended Family program in which we will match volunteer families with a child or siblings. These families will act as extended sources of love and support as the child grows. We hope that those "family" bonds will continue throughout the child's life, long after leaving the village and moving out on their own.
