This September at Pas cu Pas Foundation in Borșa, the focus was on something simple but precious: time together, without rushing. In the quiet of the garden and on walks through town and visits to local fairs, the children built friendships with people young and old, familiar and new. There were no big goals or tight schedules, only time to listen, laugh, explore and enjoy one another’s company. What they discovered was bigger than a good month: in these everyday moments, they felt that they truly belong.

Grassroots Connections

The theme of the month was what the team calls grassroots connections. These are friendships that grow the way a garden does, slowly and naturally, through simple moments shared again and again.

Much of that time was spent in the peaceful garden at Borșa, the same place where the children planted seeds in June and gathered the harvest in August. This time the garden became a place to simply be together. The children shared quiet hours there, had long conversations and played games with no hurry to finish.

Beyond the garden, the month made room for adventure too. The children explored the town, visited local fairs and went on walks together. Each outing gave them new things to see and talk about, and new chances to enjoy each other’s company along the way.

What the Children Experienced

Time to be heard. When no one is in a hurry, there is room to listen. The children had the chance to talk, share their thoughts and know that someone was paying attention.

Friendships across ages. The month brought together friends young and old. For the children, spending time with adults who care and with peers they trust is a powerful reminder that they are not alone.

Joy in simple things. A game in the garden, a walk through town or a stall at a fair. The children learned that happiness often comes from ordinary moments shared with the right people.

A sense of belonging. Above all, the children felt part of something. Being welcomed, included and enjoyed for who they are is what helps a child feel truly at home.

Why It Matters

Many of the children we serve have known lives that move too fast, with too little time for anyone to stop and simply be with them. Unhurried time is a gift. It tells a child, without needing words, that they are worth someone’s attention.

Friendships built this way last. They become the roots a child can lean on when life gets hard. This September, the children didn’t need a special program or a big event to grow. They needed time, presence and people who care, and that is what they received.

About Our Partnership

Open Soul Foundation is proud to stand alongside Pas cu Pas in its work with children in Borșa, Romania. Moments like these are one of the many ways the foundation creates space where children can build lasting connections and know that they are loved.

Thank you to everyone whose generosity makes this time possible. Your support creates space for lasting connections and reminds the children that they are loved and valued.

Open Soul Foundation was here.

“A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.” Proverbs 17:17 (NKJV)