Volunteers Foundation

Volunteers Foundation is a registered UK charity (Charity number 1140407) established in 2011 with the mission of improving the living conditions of children in Kibera, one of the largest informal settlements in Nairobi, Kenya. The charity focuses on providing high-quality education, healthcare, nutrition, and mental wellbeing support to children from the age of five to eighteen[1][2].

Objectives and Activities

Volunteers Foundation aims to enhance the lives of children in Kibera through a holistic approach encompassing education, health, and sports. The foundation operates the Volunteers Foundation Academy nursery and primary school, where children begin their education before progressing to partnering secondary schools. Alongside education, the charity monitors the health and mental wellbeing of the children to ensure comprehensive care. Sports programs are also incorporated to support physical health and social development[1].

Its programs are aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), focusing particularly on health, nutrition, and education to create sustainable improvements within the community[2].

Governance and Operations

The charity is governed by a board of five trustees and supported by six volunteers. None of the trustees receive remuneration or benefits, emphasizing the nonprofit and volunteer-driven nature of the organization. Volunteers Foundation does not operate any trading subsidiaries and maintains up-to-date charity reporting as required by the Charity Commission for England and Wales[1].

Financial Overview

For the financial year ending 31 December 2023, Volunteers Foundation reported a total income of £98,205 and expenditures amounting to £62,345. This financial transparency reflects the charity's commitment to effective stewardship of resources dedicated to its programs[1].

Fundraising and Events

Volunteers Foundation organizes various fundraising events internationally, notably in the UK, to support its projects in Kibera. These activities help raise awareness and funds necessary to sustain and expand its educational and health initiatives[2][3].

Impact and Recognition

Through its efforts, Volunteers Foundation has positively influenced the lives of hundreds of children and their families in Kibera by providing access to education, health services, and nutritional support. The charity collaborates closely with local community champions and incorporates culturally sensitive approaches to ensure the effectiveness and sustainability of its programs[2].

Volunteers Foundation exemplifies the role of international volunteer-driven charities in addressing critical social challenges in underserved communities, fostering education and wellbeing for vulnerable children in Kenya.

[1] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/5015807 [2] https://www.globalgiving.org/donate/92404/volunteers-foundation/ [3] https://www.volunteersfoundation.org/events [4] https://intch.org/company/volunteers-foundation-registered-charity-in-uk-and-ke [5] https://www.ncvo.org.uk