HOPE worldwide - A Tribute to Andrew Robben

A Tribute to Andrew Robben - Servant of All

On September 11, 2009, HOPE worldwide lost one of its finest volunteers and supporters when Andrew Robben passed away after a courageous battle with cancer. Andrew’s impact on those he served will never be forgotten. His smile and easy manner were an encouragement to all. In his brief 27 years of life, Andrew made a difference in the lives of countless people around the world.

Andrew served as an AmeriCorps member for HOPE worldwide from October 2007 to September 2008. During this service, he coordinated the HOPE Youth Corps, a summer volunteer program that inspires the service of more than 200 high school and university students each year. Andrew also volunteered as a mentor during the school year at HOPE worldwide’s Saturday Academy program in North Philadelphia. After his AmeriCorps commitment ended, Andrew continued volunteering each week in the Saturday Academy program. Andrew befriended and deeply cared for each child he mentored. His young friends in North Philadelphia join Andrew’s family and many other friends in mourning.

Andrew also was passionate about hurricane disaster relief work on the Gulf Coast. In addition to serving on the 2007 HOPE Youth Corps in New Orleans, Andrew also coordinated a service trip to the Gulf Coast with several of his friends from Georgia. His work on the Gulf Coast culminated in a large service project in July 2008 when he helped to organize more than 1,500 college students who dedicated a full day to rebuilding the devastated Lower 9th Ward in New Orleans.

Andrew completed his HOPE worldwide service by fulfilling a lifelong dream of traveling to another country to serve those in need. He served as a mentor in the Journey for Change program that enabled disadvantaged children from Brooklyn to journey to South Africa and serve others in need. Nothing brought Andrew more joy than sharing his love and kindness with those in need – whether at home or half a world away.

At HOPE worldwide, we define greatness, as the Bible does, in terms of service. Andrew Robben was truly a “great” man and we are thankful for the example of service that he provided to each one of us during his all-too-brief lifetime. We will deeply miss him but look forward to joining him someday in heaven. Solomon’s words in Proverbs 19:17 surely apply to Andrew, a servant to those in need -- “He who is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will reward him for what he has done.”

Tributes to Andrew

Oh Andrew! Its crazy that a year ago, we were all sitting around the HOPE worldwide office, eating skittles, reflecting on the craziest summer of our life, looking forward to continuing our quarter-life crisis all together. Enjoy being with God, life crisis free!
~ Jenni Clemens

Andrew was a very dear friend and an incredible man of God. He spent his short life giving with all of his heart in every situation, loving people unconditionally and making a difference. I pray that we can continue to love and serve as Andrew did.
~ Amanda Mitchell

Andrew's life has truly been a light to those around you, from his immense love for those in need and his heart to speak for those whose voice is not heard. I miss him dearly, but I'm so glad he's in a better place by far with our Lord. I love you A-Rob!
~ Jonathan Elwell

Andrew was the definition of a servant and true friend. When he saw a need, he met it quietly but with conviction. He never hesitated to inspire me with his constant thoughts for others. Andrew was one of the most Christlike men I have ever known.
~ Lauren Mackenzie

Loyal. Quirky. Faithful. Compassionate. Unique. These are but a few of the words that come to mind when I think of my friend Andrew. He was a faithful friend, a wingman, (a little nuts), and an inspiration. And most importantly he was faithful to the end.
~ Ross Woods

Andrew we love you! I really miss your families Christmas trips home staying at our house every year. Thanks for showing us the way home. Love you!
~ Brennan Lawrence

AndrewMeister! You tirelessly served and always with a smile. You helped others understand what you saw so clearly...that each of us have been made in the image of Creator; precious souls that you embraced with the love God has given to all of us!
~ David Wolff

Andrew, We love you so much and look forward to being with you and our Lord where He has prepared a place for us. What a reunion that will be. We will miss you so dearly as we finish our race here and I know your testimony will live on. Love Aunt Cherri
~ Cherri Lawrence

Andrew loved North Philadelphia. He poured his heart and life into so many kids through serving EVERY Saturday for hours, tirelessly- it was NEVER a burden for him- it was what he loved to do.
~ Casey Morris

Andrew was such a sweet, gentle spirit because he was filled with God's goodness and displayed Christlike character. He was a walking, talking testimony for our Lord Jesus. I pray that we all shine as lights among the people of this world as Andrew did.
~ Uncle Paul and Aunt Joyce

I came to know Andrew through my sister, Sandy Haggard. After he was diagnosed with cancer, I followed his updates and learned more of his story. I was so touched by his faith, outlook and heart. I look forward to the day we meet face to face.
~ Marie Robertson Klein

Andrew, We are so blessed to have had you in our lives..as you celebrate your victory in heaven, please watch over all of us who love you and continue the journey here on earth. Till we meet again!!
~ Aunt Shirley, Don, Ryan, Julie, Kendall, Mitchell & Jordan

How can we forget you? I say you are an angel because of how you thought about poor people. God bless you.
~ Syed Riaz Alikhan

When we stand before the Lord, I pray he says you loved too much and not you didn't love enough....I believe Andrew heard "You loved too much" What an inspiration during such a short life. Bless you Andrew! Love Aunt Sandy & Uncle Ron.
~ Sandy Haggard

I learned of Andrew's kindness and fun-loving spirit serving with him at camp. He was great as counselor to the little boys: a wiggly, smelly & dirty, silly group! Andrew led them with joy and devotion. Andrew, your sweetness will be missed! Nurse Pat
~ Pat Orand

I am so glad to see this tribute for Andrew. I have never seen a more dedicated servant, and I will miss my friend.
~ Michael Konomos