Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves

“Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.” Proverbs 31:8-9

Neva Bartelt is nine years old. She lives in Lenexa with her parents and two little brothers, Lincoln and Rowan. A year ago at The Global Orphan Project’s BIG EVENT Neva decided she wanted to help care for orphaned and abandoned children. Specifically, she wanted to build a home for them in Haiti. Many would have dismissed the desires of their young daughter, but not Neva’s parents. Others encouraged her as well Whatever idea you’ve got to help kids in Haiti, that’s the one God probably wants you to use! It just starts with one dollar.

With the Bartelt family’s full support, Neva stepped out in faith. God once again moved in mighty ways through His nine-year-old daughter and her friends. A talent show with twenty acts entertained more than 100 people who enjoyed everything from extemporaneous dance to songs with pine cones to bedtime skits. Several people gave for a silent auction. Today, Neva, her brother Lincoln, and the Bartlet Crew brought in more than enough to build a home for ten children. It will be built at Moise Vaval’s church. Tomorrow, Adrien Lewis will hand carry Neva’s prayer banner to Haiti, containing words of truth, love, and peace. Friday it will hang in a home for Haitian orphans.

Isabelle Redford, Cara Morrison, Anna Lipscomb, Neva Bartelt – if you see only children, look again. These girls are daughters of the King! They have been called to speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves. They come to the aid of the poor and needy. They win big victories in Jesus name. May we have their courage and conviction to speak up as well!

Neva Bartelt and friends who performed at her talent show with the hopes of raising enough to build a children's home in Haiti.

Neva and her brother Lincoln hold up the prayer banner made at the talent show, which is now on its way to Haiti.