What We Do

At only 18 years of age, Ukrainian orphans “graduate” from their orphanage. The reality of this graduation is often tragic. Upon “graduating” they are forced to find a place to live and a high enough paying job not only to pay for the roof above their head but also for their every need. While in America our options are often so many they can be overwhelming, these kids are given two options: survive or die. Naturally, being forced into a world that is far too expensive for an 18 year to afford, many of Ukraine’s orphans turn to drugs, prostitution, and crime. While the government is supposed to supply each orphan with their very own apartment, this often takes at least a year. This one year of floundering can determine the entire out come of an orphans life. It is Operation Lazarus’ desire to reach these kids before it is too late.

by intervening in the lives of teenaged orphans and by encouraging local Ukrainian churches to love, nurture and disciple the orphans of their city. It is Operation Lazarus’ passion not only to personally love on orphans but to inspire and bring a greater awareness, regarding this tragic problem, to the local churches of Ukraine. It is our conviction that not only is it the responsibility of the local church to care for these precious children but that they are the best equipped for the task, understanding both language and culture.

After connecting with the teenagers in summer camp, they are invited to attend weekly small groups which are held to disciple orphans and build relationships with them. These casual style “family dinner” meetings which are held in the Op Laz Directors’ apartment each week, offer a “safe” place for the teenagers to ask questions and seek guidance as they begin to plan for their “post-orphanage” life. This also gives opportunity for Operation Lazarus to assess individual needs and offer practical assistance as well as spiritual guidance that will help them make right choices that will affect the rest of their lives.

Practical acts of love such as Apartment Renovation for orphans released from the orphanages (and given a government apartment which are often nearly uninhabitable) demonstrate the love of God and have proven to be a powerful tool in changing the lives of individual orphans who have not known the love of a father in their lives.

Transitional Living Home - we are believing God for the finances to obtain a house where we can establish a one year program where the post-orphanage teens can live and receive love, Christian discipleship and vocational training.

As the ministry continues to grow we believe we will be training site directors who will be trained and equipped to oversee Operation Lazarus in cities and countries all over the world.