For nearly three decades, the International Children’s Fund has worked side-by-side with local leaders to bring sustainable hope to some of the world’s most impoverished communities. One of the longest-running examples of that impact can be seen in Monrovia, Liberia, where the mission of My Brother’s Keeper (MBK) recently celebrated its 28th anniversary.
Led by Pastor Ralph Gelego and his wife Etta, MBK has grown from humble beginnings into a life-changing force in the region. With support from ICF donors, they’ve built and sustained an active mission that serves more than 500 children each day through an orphanage, a K-12 school, a church, and a variety of vocational training programs. They’ve also developed a small farm and animal husbandry project, giving children and adults the tools they need to grow toward self-sufficiency.
Nuturing Empowered Futures
But their work doesn’t stop at care and compassion, MBK empowers futures. Adults are trained in skills like tailoring, woodworking, printing, and computer services. Children receive not only food and shelter, but education, spiritual guidance, and the encouragement to dream big.
This year, MBK is completing a new multi-purpose building—providing more classroom space, a venue for school and athletic events, and a source of revenue through community rentals. It’s another step toward creating long-term, sustainable change in Liberia.
At the International Children’s Fund, we believe the goal is not just to live forever, it’s to create something that will.
Our Unique Grassroots Approach
MBK is just one of 16 trusted mission partners the International Children’s Fund supports across Africa, India, and Pakistan. These partners are deeply rooted in the communities they serve and play a critical role in delivering food, clean water, education, healthcare, and spiritual guidance to the most vulnerable children and families.
At the International Children’s Fund, our grassroots model allows us to respond quickly, work efficiently, and reach people that many other organizations cannot. With 99.7% of all donations going directly to mission work, every dollar makes a powerful impact. But it’s not just about the numbers. Here’s what truly sets us apart:
- We Have a Proven Track Record
With over 40 years of experience serving the world’s most vulnerable children and families, we’ve seen what works and we remain committed to expanding our impact every day.
- We Reach the Unreachable
Our work is focused in rural villages across the globe in places often overlooked by traditional relief efforts due to difficult logistics and limited infrastructure.
- We Empower Local Leaders
We partner with a network of dedicated, indigenous pastors who serve as trusted, compassionate leaders within their own communities. These local connections ensure that aid is delivered with cultural understanding and long-term care.
- We Focus on Sustainable Solutions
From emergency food and medicine to water wells, education, and micro-enterprise opportunities, we support both immediate needs and programs that build lasting self-sufficiency. - We Maximize Every Gift
As a volunteer-driven organization, we operate with minimal overhead and no inflated salaries which allows your donations to go further and help more.
Continue Making an Impact
Consider becoming a Hope Ambassador today by committing to give monthly to sustain these vital programs. Also, did you know August is National Make-A-Will Month? It’s the perfect time to reflect on your legacy and ensure your loved ones are part of your lasting impact.
Including the International Children’s Fund in your will is a simple yet powerful way to provide hope, health, and opportunity to children around the world for generations to come. No gift is too small to make a difference. Visit our Legacy Giving page to learn more.