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Why do African social workers believe that it is essential that local governments, foreign donors, and parents understand that children living in orphanages should be returned to family homes? Join us as we explore the profound journey and epic revelations of two social workers devoting their careers to making this change across the continent of Africa, starting with orphanages in their own country. David Musa and Rosamund Palmer from the Child Reintegration Center (CRC) in Bo, Sierra Leone discuss the experience of change, and the unexpected areas of resistance, and what they find is behind it. Discover the intricacies of how the CRC is reshaping child care by helping others do what the CRC did, moving away from institutional settings to nurturing family-based environments. David and Rosamund share their experiences training social workers, engaging orphanage directors, and advocating for an attachment-focused approach that fosters strong bonds with children returning to family homes.

Our episode delves into the pivotal role of the Transition Coaching and Mentoring Department (TCM) at CRC. Learn about the power of mass media campaigns that educate communities on the benefits of family care and the harm caused by orphanages. Hear about the unique training workshop for media personnel that ensures accurate reporting on family reunification and child welfare, and why regular follow-ups, training, and mentorship are essential for organizations in transition. This discussion underscores the importance of relationship-building and trust in achieving successful transitions from orphanages to family homes.

Finally, we address the significant challenges faced in transitioning from residential care institutions to family-centered care models, particularly in Sierra Leone. David and Rosamund discuss their strategy of local engagement to garner national government support and the CRC’s own discovery of how this change permits organizations to exponentially grow their impact. CRC supported 40 children in residential care, and for the same budget, are now able to support nearly 1600 children by strengthening 450 families. We call on American donors to rethink their contributions to orphanages and instead support family-based programs. Join us as we envision an orphanage-free Sierra Leone within five years and celebrate the optimism from institutions ready to adopt best practices for the betterment of children's lives.

Helpingchildrenworldwide.org

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Discover the unforeseen ripple effects of child sponsorship programs with Dr. Laura Horvath, Jared Scheppman, and Kelly Strong as we dissect the challenges and triumphs in philanthropy's evolving landscape. As we navigate this complex terrain, our guests reveal how well-intentioned aid can sometimes miss the mark, inadvertently creating dependencies that hobble the very communities they intend to uplift. With a watchmaker's precision, we analyze the intricacies of international aid, focusing on the necessary shift from quick fixes to sustainable, community-driven development.

The journey toward ethical advocacy is fraught with obstacles, yet it's one that our guests and I tackle with unwavering commitment. This episode peels back the curtain on the delicate process of shifting from child-centric to family-centric models, highlighting the language and financial challenges that arise. Our heartfelt conversation extends gratitude to those donors who've held steadfast through the transition, illustrating the power of aligning with shared values over personal interest.

Ending on a note of optimism, we share tales of resilience and hope that fuel our mission for children separated from family care. Kelly and Jared, with their tireless dedication and sharp intellect, embody the change-makers forging a path to a brighter future. By embracing radical honesty and collective action, we underscore our belief that even amidst overwhelming odds, we can make a profound difference in the lives of the most vulnerable. Join us in this critical conversation as we champion ethical and moral advocacy for children worldwide.

Helpingchildrenworldwide.org

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Part One:

Discover the transformative power of reimagined humanitarian aid in our latest episode of Optimistic Voices. Join me, Dr. Melody Curtis, along with experts Dr. Laura Horvath, Jared Scheppman, and Kelly Strong, as we share our journey from traditional child sponsorship models to a new paradigm that champions community empowerment. We're peeling back the curtain to reveal the ethical dilemmas and strategic decisions that are reshaping the way we support vulnerable children around the world.

The narrative of child sponsorship is being rewritten, and you're invited to listen in as Jared discusses the rationale behind EKISA aschewing child sponsorship for an innovative fundraising effort that doesn't "throw the baby out with the bathwater." As our conversation unfolds, we explore how this organization has courageously stepped away from individual sponsorships to pioneer a collective approach that enriches entire communities. This crucial episode uncovers the reality of these programs — from the potential to unintentionally propagate paternalism to the inspiring possibilities that emerge from consistent, holistic support.

Kelly Strong spotlights how their bold rebranding of a monthly giving program places family empowerment at the forefront. Hear firsthand from Dr. Laura Horvath about how her organization grappled with the false narrative that lifelong personal bonds are developed through child sponsorship, and their decision to adopt a new way of speaking about dedicated donors advocating and partnering with workers to uplift and protect entire communities. The insights shared by our panel challenge traditional donor roles and highlight the importance of sustainable change, ensuring that this episode will leave listeners enlightened and potentially inspired to advocate for more equitable forms of humanitarian aid.

But what happens to organizations after they make this decision?

Listen in to our next episode, as these bold leaders discuss with radical honesty the impacts, good and bad, on their organization and its mission.

Helpingchildrenworldwide.org