International Children's Fund

The non-profit organization was founded in 1978 by theologian David Bruenning, who traveled internationally to train pastors in the Christian faith. He was introduced to local communities and felt the need to assist populations living in poverty.[1] The organization relies on a network of pastors in local villages to identify the greatest needs in their immediate communities.[2]

The International Children's Fund relies primarily on volunteers to carry out its work.[3] More than 40 volunteers now process more than $8 million and $10 million in donated goods annually from American contributors, which are shipped to 10 countries throughout the African continent.[4] Because of its reliance on volunteers, the organization operates with low overhead. In 2013, more than 98 percent of donations went directly to program services.[5]

International Children's Fund flooring installation

The International Children's Fund receives a variety of items, including pharmaceuticals, medical supplies, clothing, printing presses[1] and building materials.[6] The International Children's Fund shipped more than 150,000 pounds of dehydrated food in 2013.[2] More than 20 shipping containers are shipped to African countries, including Kenya, Uganda, Sierra Leone, Ghana, Zambia and Liberia each year.

While the International Children's Fund accepts donations from throughout the United States, it also works with local businesses on special projects. In 2014, the International Children's Fund received a donation of flooring materials from HJ Martin and Son, which was used to finish a variety of building projects in Liberia and Sierra Leone. Billboard posters from LaMar Advertising were donated and reused as waterproof building materials for some of these projects. The organization also occasionally partners with Rotary International and its Sharing Around (the World) Medical Project to distribute needed medical supplies.[7]

[1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6]