Free The Children

No problem or solution stands alone. That's why Adopt a Village is made up of four pillars crucial to sustainable community development: education, alternative income, health care and alternative income.

Designed to meet the basic needs of developing communities and eliminate the obstacles preventing children from accessing education, these four pillars work together and are the essential base for sustainable development. Each pillar plays a part in changing lives.

we're proud to say that...

Adopt a Village has brought over 650 schools and school rooms to young people around the world, educating more than 55,000 children every day.
$15 million US dollars worth of essential medical supplies has been shipped to Asia, Latin America and Africa, benefiting more than 512,000 people.
1 million people have improved access to clean water, health care and sanitation.
30,000 women are economically self-sufficient due to our micro-loans and alternative income programs.

why adopt a village is different:

Our collaborative approach ensures we employ staff on the ground in each country who oversee the quality and integrity of all projects.
This staff works in partnership with the communities on an on-going basis, regularly monitoring and evaluating all the programs.
Prior to undertaking any development intervention, country staff carry out needs assessments which include a survey of the community's development issues, strengths, resources and priorities for change.
We conduct analysis of the needs assessments which informs the specific way in which we proceed, ensuring our efforts are respectful of local needs and wants, sustainable and contribute to local capacity building.
Local knowledge, assets and environment are the foundation of all our work, providing innovative and locally sustainable solutions.
We work to build strong relationships and commitments from local governments, Ministries of Education, and community leadership to ensure the sustainability of all components of the program.
Our rights-based approach ensures we are not only helping communities realize their rights (such as a primary education) but building awareness of their basic human rights throughout the process, thereby ensuring a long term impact. This approach addresses inequity based on gender, ethnicity, and socio-economic status (particularly relevant in India where the lingering impact of the caste system still denies so many people access to basic human rights).

testimonials.

Without the vocational training centre I would not be able to be a wood carver or to start my own business. I learned a lot and am recognized in my village as a skilled carver. The Sri Lankan government hired me to help conduct woodcarving workshops for youth in surrounding villages because of the training I received and the work I am doing now. If it was not for the centre, I would probably be unemployed and not able to support my family.

- Mohemed Rafeek Ishaq, Sri Lanka
My sickness [epilepsy] started when I was very small. It was not easy for my mother to find medicine. Then [the Loreto Clinic supported by Free The Children] started bringing the medicine I needed. Now I don't miss out on my classes and can join my companions in all activities. Life is much better.

- Rosaline Moody, Sierra Leone
We [recently] got a hand pump in our school and this saves me and my mother lots of time [for collecting water]. I also participated in a water and education project and have seen many changes. We are getting more aware about health and hygiene and are leaving behind old mentalities for a good future.

- Pawam, India
There was only one school here. Now, they have a new school, a bigger school. I think the education of all the little children will make our community grow stronger.

- Reginald, a mason and a graduate of the Dos Palais Primary School, Haiti

adopt a village by country. China Ecuador India Kenya Sierra Leone Haiti	adopt a village by pillar. Water Health Education Alternative Income
	Featured Country: China On ground: since 2002 Regions adopted: Beichuan, Nanjia, Yaolong, Caihe, Gufabo, Quanyuan, Wenjia, Menquan Facilities built: direct water piping, toilets, hand-washing stations Featured Country: Ecuador On ground: since 1999 Regions adopted: San Miguel, Amula Cruzada Loma, Gulahuayco, Huacona La Merced Facilities built: direct water piping, toilets, hand-washing stations Featured Country: India On ground: since 2004 Regions adopted: Lai Gow Village, Gayriawas, Kuliyo ki Baghal Facilities built: community centre, drilling wells, latrines Featured Country: Kenya On ground: since 1999 Regions adopted: Enelerai, Salabwek, Motony, Oloosiyoi, Emorijoi, Pimbinet, Olonkerin Facilities built: libraries, latrines, kitchens, teachers' accommodations