World Vision partners with many Canadian celebrities who help draw attention to the issues facing the world's poorest children. But these stars aren't always prepared for how much the experience transforms them.

Here's what they have to say:

Fred Penner, children's singer:
"After being in Zambia with World Vision and seeing firsthand what can be done—what is possible—I am all the more determined. Never underestimate your ability to make a difference in the life of a child."

Michelle Wright, singer-songwriter:
"Recently, I participated in a World Vision evening for child sponsors in the Maritimes. I watched as more than 1,000 people gathered in an atmosphere of warmth, affirmation, and gratitude. What struck me about this crowd was that each one of these people has a heart to make a difference. Seeing this made me feel even more thankful for my relationship with World Vision."

Marci Ien, anchor for CTV's Canada AM:
Note: In August, as part of the International AIDS Conference in Toronto, World Vision set up an interactive audio tour called the "One Life Experience." The public could step into the life of one of four African children and gain a new perspective on HIV and AIDS.
"It is impossible to walk away from World Vision's One Life Experience without being profoundly affected, but that's the point. It was thought-provoking. By walking in another's shoes—a child's shoes—one quickly realizes the next step is to take action to stop the horrors that too many children experience. I went home and hugged my baby girl a lot harder that night."