How does ChildFund work?

What should I know about ChildFund's work?

Founded in 1938, ChildFund exists to help children realize their rights and achieve their potential. ChildFund uses funds raised to help communities to transform themselves into places that support childhood ― places where children are valued and protected.

ChildFund works through local partners because we believe local ownership of change is fundamental to the social change process. Local partners are responsible for delivering the programs and services that children need at different stages of their lives. Through these partnerships, ChildFund reaches children directly while also involving parents, teachers, local governments and larger systems in upholding children’s rights to health, nutrition, safety, education and more.

The individual and communal aspects of ChildFund's approach work together: The connections between children and sponsors support and inspire children's growth within an environment that's created with their needs in mind. Children learn to use their voices to make those needs known ... and, as they grow, to meet their own needs and those of their communities.

And, when children take hold of their own lives and communities take ownership in their own development, the resulting changes are sustainable ― and life-changing.

It's all about relationships: between sponsors and children, children and families, families and communities, communities and local and national governments, ChildFund and its partner organizations ... all in the interests of children. Our 88 years' experience has shown us again and again how powerful relationships can be ― especially when their benefits reach children early, during their most rapid development. Childhood really is a one-time opportunity.

What is the easiest way I can support ChildFund's mission?

The simplest way to support our mission is to become a monthly donor. Our community of monthly donors, the ChildFund Village, donates on a recurring basis so that we have the flexibility to support children when and where they need it most. Anyone can join our giving community, whether you donate $10 a month or $100. Once you're a member, you'll get exclusive behind-the-scenes updates on the impact you're making straight to your inbox! Join the ChildFund Village and start making a difference today!

What is the ChildFund Advisory Network?

Our ChildFund Advisory Network (CAN) is an invitation-only group of ChildFund supporters who provide feedback through a variety of surveys and studies. Members of our panel have already offered feedback and insights to help shape the design of our annual Child Progress Reports, our new sponsor information package and our ChildWorld newsletter. They’ve even helped prioritize improvements and features for our website.

How does ChildFund use my personal and financial information?

ChildFund maintains the confidentiality of our donors. The information you provide is used to process your donations and to communicate directly with you regarding your sponsored child, donations and special ChildFund initiatives. We do not sell or rent our mailing list to other organizations that solicit donations or sell any products. However, in order to enhance our fundraising strategies and reduce our costs, ChildFund exchanges portions of our donor lists (name, address, and giving history) with select nonprofit organizations via membership in certain nonprofit “cooperatives”. These exchanges help us fundraise and reach new supporters. Please note that you will automatically be included in these data-sharing exchanges unless you opt out. You may, at any time, choose to opt out of sharing your information with such cooperatives by calling us at (800) 776-6767 or emailing us at questions@childfund.org with “do not share” in the subject line of the email. Please include your full name and address in your email so we can properly identify your record. In every case we will do our best to promptly respond to your request.

Are my donations to ChildFund tax deductible?

Yes, your donations are tax deductible. ChildFund International is a tax-exempt organization under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

What is the ChildFund Alliance? 

The ChildFund Alliance is a network of 12 international child development organizations. ChildFund International is a founding member of the Alliance and maintains a central role in the group's work. Our participation in the ChildFund Alliance extends our global reach to 58 countries where children living in poverty need support.

Membership in the Alliance and sharing the ChildFund name also increase opportunities for collaboration, including expanded programming and fundraising activities.

Through our partnership with the ChildFund Alliance, ChildFund International is ultimately able to reach more children, more effectively. 

How can we receive help from ChildFund for our organization?

ChildFund serves children with and through our local partner organizations. Our operations in each country are guided by a multi-year plan developed in collaboration with the communities where we work. In order for ChildFund to begin the process of serving children in new areas or through new partners, we ask that organizations first approach ChildFund’s operations in the country where they seek funding.