For the next few months, we’ll be sitting down with various members of the Remember the Children team and learning more about the work they do. This month, we’re hearing from Natalie Barentson, who does RtC’s online marketing and communication.
Natalie Barentson, Online Marketing and Communications
What do you do for RtC?
I have the pleasure of coordinating our online marketing and communication. In short, anything you see online (other than social media), is from me. I get to send you our Sunday Stories, President’s Circle emails, live streams, and YouTube videos. I also get to work on special projects for you all, such as the Annual Report, up-keeping the website and writing blog posts. It’s a ton of fun!
How did you get involved with RtC?
I first learned about RtC in 2013 when I was a student at William Jessup University, a school out here in Sacramento, California. I went on a mission trip to Romania through a partnership between my university and RtC. When I was there, I instantly fell in love with Romania and the work this organization does there.
The moment that sealed my passion for this work was when I visited one of the state orphanages that RtC serves. I met a young, teen gal who had just been taken off the street. Her head was shaved to prevent lice, and she had a lifeless, blank stare on her face. She was scared and alone. I went out into the hallway and started sobbing. I remember saying to my friend, “it shouldn’t be this way. No kid should ever have to experience this.” That’s why I’m so passionate about House of Hope (RtC’s orphan home in Romania)—many of the kids came from that same state orphanage. Thanks to you, they now have a family. I see how it impacts kids, and I want each of you to see how your support gives them hope!
What’s your vision for the organization?
I want everyone to know about RtC. I want it to be a household name, like the Salvation Army or Compassion International. Not for the fame or the glitz or the glory, but simply so more kids can receive hope and families. Furthermore, so more people like you can experience the blessing of providing hope for children. It’s encouraging to do this work, and I want more people to get the opportunity to get involved. That’s why I love online marketing. It’s a very tangible way to introduce more people into this ministry!
What’s one thing you want to tell supporters?
Come on, just one [laughs]? I’d say: your support truly does make a difference in the lives of these kids. I’ve been to House of Hope 3 times now, and every time, the kids grow spiritually, physically, mentally, and relationally. The love of a family transforms their lives, and you make that happen. They can’t receive that hope without you. Furthermore, the kids and house parents pray for you regularly. They love their sponsors and are really thankful to have you in their life!