Finding Strength through the YANA Family

In 2008, when he was seven years old, Hyeok had his first encounter with YANA.

Since then, he has taken part in the Flying Happiness Program (now Project Homecoming) twice, attended all seasonal programs offered by YANA, and finally came to the United States as a YANA Study Abroad Program student in 2018. After graduating from Eastern Christian School in June 2021, Hyeok began studying at the University of New York - Stony Brook, majoring in Health Sciences.

‘Hyeok, how about studying in the States?’

Although I was somewhat frightened by the suggestion made by the director of Dongmyung Children's Home, I felt an immediate urge to seize the opportunity.

I could not speak English nor did I excel in academics. Despite of my shortcomings, members of the YANA family encouraged, trusted, and supported me.

Thanks to their unconditional love, I flew to America, graduated high school, and started attending a university.

I suffered numerous sports-related injuries while growing up, and there was always someone to help and treat me. I felt a lot of warmth through all the support I received, and was grateful that I was not alone in this world.

My dream is to help and treat those that are wounded. I will study hard so I can share the love and support I received with those around me.

Hyeok Kang

YANA Study Abroad Program for children raised in welfare homes