When we started our child sponsorship program decades ago, we worked out of cramped, rented buildings. Then we made a leap of faith. In 1991, with the help of some extremely dedicated and generous donors, we built our first community center.
Once it was finished, our work was just getting started. We hired local professionals to staff the community center and mentor our children and youth.
Today, we have built and now operate 67 community centers in vulnerable neighborhoods around the world and grown our program offerings, staff and volunteers to provide life-changing support to children and youth with the ultimate goal of helping them break free from poverty. Learn about community centers
Our community centers show residents that we are there to help — and to stay.
And, while sponsorship contributions provide kids with access to dynamic services and programs available at our centers, we cover the costs of community center construction and operational support through separate fundraising campaigns.
Investing in our centers and programs is just as critical as sponsorship contributions because they help transform the bricks and mortar of a building into an oasis of hope and change.
Kids can learn and grow in our community centers, away from the dangers of gang violence and drugs.
4,000+ volunteers and local staff know our kids, their communities and their unique challenges.
We guide children on the path out of poverty through country- and age-relevant services and programs.
Contact the Global Philanthropy Team at 800-888-3089 or philanthropy@children.org.
Walk into one of our centers around the world, and you will see kids playing, studying, reading, getting medical and dental check-ups and receiving life-changing help. But something even bigger happens, too. For many kids and families, our community centers offer a place of dignity and hope.
— Arnold, 15, ZAMBIA
Gangs, drugs, violence, pollution, child labor and abuse await many of our children and families, especially those who live in urban neighborhoods. There, the need for safe places is even greater. Our community centers bring together people who inspire each other. They stand as a testament to our long-term investment in our communities. Beyond the bricks and mortar, these buildings are transformed by the energy and passion of the people who enter the doors, and the centers become like second homes.
With your help, we can continue opening doors to a better future for thousands of children. Your donation is vital to ensuring our community centers are equipped and staffed to provide those we serve with the safety, care and resources they need to create a life beyond poverty. One gift can equal a lifetime of giving to communities in need. That’s a return on investment you can believe in.
Contact our Global Philanthropy team at 800‑888‑4089 or philanthropy@children.org.
