Who We Are

Our Mission

Kupenda (“love” in Kiswahili) for the Children is a registered 501(c)3 that transforms harmful beliefs surrounding disability to those that improve children’s lives.

Our Vision

A fully integrated society where people of all abilities have access to health, education, and a loving community.

Why We Exist

In many areas of the world, people impacted by disability are viewed as cursed, leading to their neglect, abandonment, abuse, rape, and murder. According to the World Health Organization, 1.3 billion people in the world, 16% of the population, “have a disability severe enough that it limits their participation in family, community and political life”. Among these, children with disabilities are one of the most marginalized and excluded groups in society.

Girl smiling

Where We Work

Our innovation center is in the Kilifi County of Kenya but our model and materials are also being used in parts of Zambia, Tanzania, Sierra Leone, Malawi, Austria, Burundi, Haiti, DRC, Ethiopia, Niger, Philippines, Rwanda, Uganda, Zimbabwe and the United States of America and are relevant for use in all low- and middle-income countries. Learn more about our global programs here.

The Children We Serve

Kupenda works with children and youth who have long-term disabilities including physical, cognitive, sensory, and emotional health issues.

Boy sitting down

What We Value

Local Leadership

Local professionals develop and deliver our programs to ensure they are tailored for each community’s unique language, culture and needs.

Evidence

We use the WHO and UNICEF’s evidence-based, global best practices for disability care and advocacy.

Sustainability

Kupenda’s provides direct care to some children but we are focused on inspiring and empowering communities to do this work because it is the most sustainable solution.

Impact

Our programs are regularly evaluated and we use this information to improve our strategies for the greatest impact.

Our Statement of Faith

Kupenda was founded and continues to operate as a Christian organization which means we believe in and demonstrate the love, justice, and compassion displayed in the life and death of Jesus to people of all faiths or none at all.

We follow the biblical guidance of loving all people as ourselves, especially families impacted by disabilities who are often the most vulnerable, marginalized, and abused.

All who desire to be a part of this work are welcome, regardless of religious preference or background.

We welcome recipients, volunteers, and supporters from all religious beliefs or none.

boy with crutches