Build Relationships. Break Poverty.
51 episodes - English - Latest episode: 6 months ago - ★★★★★ - 31 ratings“Build Relationships. Break Poverty." is a podcast that challenges the Western perception of international poverty by elevating the voices of local leaders and processing how we can help to alleviate poverty without harming those living in vulnerable communities. We are Children’s HopeChest, and we believe that building two-way relationships will break the cycle of poverty.
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Episodes
Leaving a Legacy Through Sponsorship: Atkelt Simon's Story
November 07, 2023 11:00 - 24 minutes - 17.2 MBIn the grand finale of our "Fueling the Future" series, we're honored to have Atkelt Simon, an extraordinary individual who once benefited from sponsorship and is now a vital part of the HopeChest team. Join us as Atkelt shares his remarkable journey from being a sponsored child to a dedicated employee, shedding light on the transformative power of sponsorship for young adults during this pivotal stage of life. Support the show
Living Life on Mission with the DeBruins
July 11, 2023 10:00 - 44 minutes - 30.5 MBSupport the show
A Transformational Relationship: Julie and Justin's HopeChest Friendship
June 13, 2023 15:00 - 22 minutes - 15.4 MBSupport the show
Empowered Generation: Unleashing the Potential of Older Youth with Jim Cords
May 16, 2023 13:00 - 26 minutes - 18.2 MBSupport the show
Empowered Generation: Unleashing the Potential of Older Youth with Pastor Jim Cords
May 16, 2023 13:00 - 26 minutes - 18.2 MBSupport the show
From Sponsorship to Success: The Transformative Power of Relationship, Accountability, and Love
May 02, 2023 11:00 - 42 minutes - 29.6 MBIn this episode, we hear the inspiring story of a couple who decided to sponsor a child in need, not just for a short-term period, but until the child became an adult and achieved success. We explore how the relationship between the couple and the child grew over the years and how they provided not just financial support, but also emotional support and guidance. We learn about the accountability that the couple held the child to, and how it encouraged the child to take ownership of their own...
From Sponsorship to Success: The Transformative Power of Relationship
May 02, 2023 11:00 - 42 minutes - 29.6 MBIn this episode, we hear the inspiring story of a couple who decided to sponsor a child in need, not just for a short-term period, but until the child became an adult and achieved success. We explore how the relationship between the couple and the child grew over the years and how they provided not just financial support, but also emotional support and guidance. We learn about the accountability that the couple held the child to, and how it encouraged the child to take ownership of their own...
From Russia with Love - The Inspiring Story of HopeChest's Roots
April 04, 2023 14:00 - 36 minutes - 25.4 MBWelcome to the launch of "Fueling the Future," a new series by Children's HopeChest that's all about investing in today's teens and young adults to empower tomorrow's leaders. In this episode, we're thrilled to be joined by four of our own employees, including Rachel Andrews, VP of International Operations, as well as Masha, Yana, and Tanya from our team in Russia. Together, we'll explore the transformative impact of investing in young adults, and dive into the roots of Children's HopeChest ...
From Russia with Love: The Inspiring Story of HopeChest's Roots
April 04, 2023 14:00 - 36 minutes - 25.4 MBWelcome to the launch of "Fueling the Future," a new series by Children's HopeChest that's all about investing in today's teens and young adults to empower tomorrow's leaders. In this episode, we're thrilled to be joined by four of our own employees, including Rachel Andrews, VP of International Operations, as well as Masha, Yana, and Tanya from our team in Russia. Together, we'll explore the transformative impact of investing in young adults, and dive into the roots of Children's HopeChest ...
Partnership Story – Jim Foubister and Billy Swanson, Tri County Air Conditioning and Heating
January 09, 2023 23:00 - 25 minutes - 17.4 MBCommunity-to-community relationships are an important part of the HopeChest approach. We share lots of incredible transformation stories from the countries where we work, but what is the transformation like for the communities here in the United States? We are so excited to be sharing a series that features our partners in the United States! In this series, we’ll be hearing from former and current HopeChest Partnership Leaders, pastors and church leaders, business leaders, and other partner...
Partnership Story – John Sparks, The River Church
November 07, 2022 08:00 - 21 minutes - 15.1 MBCommunity-to-community relationships are an important part of the HopeChest approach. We share lots of incredible transformation stories from the countries where we work, but what is the transformation like for the communities here in the United States? We are so excited to be sharing a series that features our partners in the United States! In this series, we’ll be hearing from former and current HopeChest Partnership Leaders, pastors and church leaders, and other partners talk about their...
Partnership Story – Brandon Boos, Faith & Zion Lutheran Church
September 12, 2022 07:00 - 17 minutes - 12.2 MBCommunity-to-community relationships are an important part of the HopeChest approach. We share lots of incredible transformation stories from the countries where we work, but what is the transformation like for the communities here in the United States? We are so excited to be sharing a series that features our partners in the United States! In this series, we’ll be hearing from former and current HopeChest Partnership Leaders, pastors and church leaders, and other partners talk about their...
Partnership Story – Jen Debruin, Orphans of Teso Connect Community
July 11, 2022 07:00 - 17 minutes - 12.3 MBCommunity-to-community relationships are an important part of the HopeChest approach. We share lots of incredible transformation stories from the countries where we work, but what is the transformation like for the communities here in the United States? We are so excited to be sharing a series that features our partners in the United States! In this series, we’ll be hearing from former and current HopeChest Partnership Leaders, pastors and church leaders, and other partners talk about their...
Partnership Story - Thad Spring, All Shores Wesleyan Church
May 09, 2022 07:00 - 23 minutes - 16.4 MBCommunity-to-community relationships are an important part of the HopeChest approach. We share lots of incredible transformation stories from the countries where we work, but what is the transformation like for the communities here in the United States? We are so excited to be sharing a series that features our partners in the United States! In this series, we’ll be hearing from former and current HopeChest Partnership Leaders, pastors and church leaders, and other partners talk about their...
Partnership Story - Steven Deur, Watermark Church
March 14, 2022 08:00 - 28 minutes - 19.7 MBCommunity-to-community relationships are an important part of the HopeChest approach. We share lots of incredible transformation stories from the countries where we work, but what is the transformation like for the communities here in the United States? We are so excited to be sharing a brand new series on our podcast, “Build Relationships, Break Poverty” featuring our partners in the United States! In this series, we’ll be hearing from former and current HopeChest Partnership Leaders, past...
You Asked, Guatemala's Country Director Answered
November 08, 2021 12:00 - 40 minutes - 28.2 MBIn October, we asked you, our thoughtful and curious community, what questions you had for Children’s HopeChest Guatemala Country Director, Carolina Cardona. You asked, and Carolina answered! In this month’s unique episode, we are featuring your fantastic questions for Carolina. Support the show (http://www.hopechest.org) Support the show
You Asked, Ethiopia's Country Director Answered
September 14, 2021 07:00 - 21 minutes - 14.9 MBIn August, we asked you, our thoughtful and curious community, what questions you had for Children’s HopeChest Uganda Country Director, Milkias "Mickey" Taye. You asked, and Mickey answered! In this month’s unique episode, we are featuring your fantastic questions for Mickey. Support the show (www.hopechest.org) Support the show
You Asked, Russia's Country Director Answered
July 13, 2021 04:00 - 13 minutes - 9.49 MBIn June, we asked you, our thoughtful and curious community, what questions you had for Children’s HopeChest Russia Country Director, Katya Celenina. You asked, and Katya answered! In this month’s unique episode, we are featuring your fantastic questions for Katya. Support the show
You Asked, Uganda's Country Director Answered
June 07, 2021 07:00 - 26 minutes - 18 MBIn May, we asked you, our thoughtful and curious community, what questions you had for Children’s HopeChest Uganda Country Director, Joseph Elotu. You asked, and Joseph answered! In this month’s unique episode, we are featuring eight of your fantastic questions for Joseph. Support the show
How Communities Around the World Care for the Environment
May 10, 2021 11:00 - 27 minutes - 19.2 MBOne of the greatest assets that we all share is this beautiful planet that we call home! How are vulnerable communities taking a stand against climate change? This month, hear from five international Children's HopeChest staff about earth-friendly projects in their communities. These projects are creating lasting change and cultivating an appreciation for the environment in children and their families! Support the show
How Are Programs Implemented in Communities? Interview with HopeChest’s International Operations Director
April 12, 2021 09:00 - 30 minutes - 21.2 MBIn community development that focuses on poverty alleviation, community projects are incredibly important to long-term self-sustainability. Have you ever been curious about how programs are chosen for each CarePoint community? Or how programs that are implemented in Russia are different from programs implemented in Uganda? How involved are local leaders, really, in the process of development plans? In this month’s episode, we interview Tesfa Tsegaye Abebe, Children’s HopeChest’s Internat...
How Are Programs Implemented in Communities? Interview with HopeChest’s International Operations Director
April 12, 2021 09:00 - 30 minutes - 21.2 MBIn community development that focuses on poverty alleviation, community projects are incredibly important to long-term self-sustainability. Have you ever been curious about how programs are chosen for each CarePoint community? Or how programs that are implemented in Russia are different from programs implemented in Uganda? How involved are local leaders, really, in the process of development plans? In this month’s episode, we interview Tesfa Tsegaye Abebe, Children’s HopeChest’s Internat...
You Asked, Children's HopeChest's CEO Answered
February 08, 2021 12:00 - 36 minutes - 25 MBIn January, we asked you, our thoughtful and curious community, what questions you had for Children’s HopeChest President and CEO, Ken Sparks. You asked, and Ken answered! In this month’s unique episode of “Build Relationships. Break Poverty.” we are featuring eight of your fantastic questions for Ken. Listen in on this fun and conversational episode! Support the show
A New Year’s Message from Children’s HopeChest’s President + CEO
January 11, 2021 10:00 - 10 minutes - 7.53 MBThis first podcast episode of the year features HopeChest President and CEO, Ken Sparks. Hear about significant victories from 2020, as well as Ken’s vision for the organization in 2021. You don’t want to miss these exciting updates! Support the show
Spiritual and Mental Health During the Pandemic in Guatemala
December 07, 2020 20:00 - 53 minutes - 37.2 MBFor many, this year has been a struggle with mental health. This month we are sharing an interview with Andrea Mazariegos and Jose Carlos Ramos, two Guatemala CarePoint Coordinators with backgrounds in psychology. To support children’s emotional health and provide discipleship during a season of lockdowns in Guatemala, they created an innovative program called a TEC Moment. Learn all about their vision behind this impactful program, hear how they have seen children’s lives radically tran...
Introducing, Greater Calling! Four Experts Weigh in on Corporate Social Responsibility
September 07, 2020 14:00 - 54 minutes - 37.4 MBHaving a resonant business is now about more than providing a great product or service. Did you know that 90% of Gen Z believes companies must act to help social and environmental issues and 75% will do research to see if a company is being honest when it takes a stand on issues. * Children’s HopeChest is stepping up to provide resources to businesses to launch their purpose into the world through global partnerships. Introducing, Greater Calling, a DBA of Children’s HopeChest that focuse...
Moving Mountains: an interview with Hellen, leader of Mt. Elgone CarePoint in Kenya
August 10, 2020 11:00 - 52 minutes - 36.1 MBHow is the pandemic affecting one of the most impoverished communities in Kenya, and what is being done to meet critical needs and create opportunities for long-term change in that area? Hellen Makani, dynamic leader of Mt. Elgone CarePoint shares captivating stories that will fill your heart with hope. ____________________________________________________ The transformation that you hear about in this month’s podcast is possible because of people like YOU who come alongside leaders, like ...
Hear What Children's HopeChest Has to Say on Core Values and Racial Equality
July 13, 2020 22:00 - 42 minutes - 28.9 MBChildren’s HopeChest stands on the side of justice. Hear from Ken Sparks (HopeChest President and CEO), Rachel Andrews (VP of Community Partnerships), and Mickey Gutema (Ethiopia Country Director) about how Children’s HopeChest’s core values promote racial justice. Support the show
Part Two | A Day in the Life of 3 Program Coordinators in Ethiopia
June 08, 2020 22:00 - 32 minutes - 22.4 MBThis month’s podcast episode is part two and the last of the multi-episode “day in the life” series featuring HopeChest’s Ugandan and Ethiopian in-country staff. Hear straight from Fikre, Yared, and Alex as they share stories from their daily work at HopeChest’s Ethiopia head office. Combined, these three leaders have 25 years of experience working in child advocacy. In this episode, Rachel makes them choose JUST ONE “most impactful story” that they have witnessed in their work. Don’t mis...
Part Two | A Day in the Life of 3 Program Coordinators in Ethiopia
June 08, 2020 22:00 - 32 minutes - 22.4 MBThis month’s podcast episode is part two and the last of the multi-episode “day in the life” series featuring HopeChest’s Ugandan and Ethiopian in-country staff. Hear straight from Fikre, Yared, and Alex as they share stories from their daily work at HopeChest’s Ethiopia head office. Combined, these three leaders have 25 years of experience working in child advocacy. In this episode, Rachel makes them choose JUST ONE “most impactful story” that they have witnessed in their work. Don’t mis...
Part One | A Day in the Life of 3 Program Coordinators in Ethiopia
May 11, 2020 22:00 - 27 minutes - 19.2 MBWhile traveling last winter, VP of Community Partnerships, Rachel Andrews, sat down with Fikre, Yared, and Alex, who shared what their daily work is like at the head office in Ethiopia as Program Coordinators. In this episode, they share what the most rewarding and challenging aspects of their work are and how nonprofits are changing under Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s leadership. A quirky thing about this episode is that it was recorded in the dark because the power went out! Listen to part ...
Part One | A Day in the Life of 3 Program Coordinators in Ethiopia
May 11, 2020 22:00 - 27 minutes - 19.2 MBWhile traveling last winter, VP of Community Partnerships, Rachel Andrews, sat down with Fikre, Yared, and Alex, who shared what their daily work is like at the head office in Ethiopia as Program Coordinators. In this episode, they share what the most rewarding and challenging aspects of their work are and how nonprofits are changing under Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s leadership. A quirky thing about this episode is that it was recorded in the dark because the power went out! Listen to part ...
Part Two | A Day in the Life of 3 Uganda CarePoint Project Coordinators
April 13, 2020 22:00 - 29 minutes - 20.1 MBCombined, Ezra, Stella, and Philip have 15 years of experience leading communities in Uganda. Although Children’s HopeChest’s CarePoint community development begins by focusing on children, these three have a lot on their plates as they serve not only the children at their CarePoints, but their entire communities! These remarkable CarePoint Project Coordinators recently spent some time with Rachel Andrews, VP of Community Partnerships, to discuss what their daily work is like at the CarePoi...
Part One | A Day in the Life of 3 Uganda CarePoint Project Coordinators
March 09, 2020 22:00 - 25 minutes - 17.7 MBCombined, Ezra, Stella, and Philip have 15 years of experience leading communities in Uganda. Although Children’s HopeChest’s CarePoint community development begins by focusing on children, these three have a lot on their plates as they serve not only the children at their CarePoints, but their entire communities! These remarkable CarePoint Project Coordinators recently spent some time with Rachel Andrews, VP of Community Partnerships, to discuss what their daily work is like at the CarePoi...
Part One | A Day in the Life of 3 Uganda CarePoint Project Coordinators
March 09, 2020 22:00 - 25 minutes - 17.7 MBCombined, Ezra, Stella, and Philip have 15 years of experience leading communities in Uganda. Although Children’s HopeChest’s CarePoint community development begins by focusing on children, these three have a lot on their plates as they serve not only the children at their CarePoints, but their entire communities! These remarkable CarePoint Project Coordinators recently spent some time with Rachel Andrews, VP of Community Partnerships, to discuss what their daily work is like at the CarePoi...
What Is the Work of Program Manager in Guatemala Like? Interview with Samuel Montero
February 10, 2020 23:00 - 41 minutes - 28.7 MBNot even a Colorado blizzard could stop these two from recording an episode for “Build Relationships. Break Poverty.” In this month’s episode, Sam and Rachel (VP of Community Partnerships) talk through how HopeChest Guatemala’s programs are restoring dignity for children, their families, and entire communities. Samuel Montero has a passion for restoring people through the power of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. As Program Manager in Guatemala, he oversees projects and programs at CarePoints,...
What Is the Work of a Program Manager in Guatemala Like? Interview with Samuel Montero
February 10, 2020 23:00 - 41 minutes - 28.7 MBNot even a Colorado blizzard could stop these two from recording an episode for “Build Relationships. Break Poverty.” In this month’s episode, Sam and Rachel (VP of Community Partnerships) talk through how HopeChest Guatemala’s programs are restoring dignity for children, their families, and entire communities. Samuel Montero has a passion for restoring people through the power of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. As Program Manager in Guatemala, he oversees projects and programs at CarePoints,...
What We've Learned and Where We're Going | 25th Anniversary Episode
January 27, 2020 23:00 - 38 minutes - 26.8 MBWe’re publishing our first podcast of the year, and this one is in celebration of our 25th anniversary! During this exciting conversation, Sally Townsend (Chairperson of the Board) and Ken Sparks (CEO and President) share: about the first moment they felt deeply connected to HopeChest’s mission what we’ve learned after 25 years of fighting the cycle of poverty around the globe more about our clear and innovative vision for the future of child sponsorship how we’re celebrating our 25th ...
Six Quick (But Powerful) Stories of Transformation
December 16, 2019 23:00 - 31 minutes - 21.9 MBWe use the word “transformation” a lot here at Children’s HopeChest. Sometimes, when a word is used so often, it can begin to feel lackluster. Today on the “Build Relationships. Break Poverty.” podcast, we are sharing six different stories of transformation to bring the word alive. Each story is unique and vividly depicts the transformation not only of the children at HopeChest CarePoints, but also of North American partners as well! If these stories resonate with you and want to join us ...
Interview with Masha on 21 Years of Empowering Orphaned Youth in Russia
November 11, 2019 23:00 - 55 minutes - 38.1 MBToday we are delighted to share a special conversation with Rachel Andrews (HopeChest VP of Community Partnerships) and Masha Bodrova (HopeChest Russia Finance and Program Coordinator), who have been dear friends for 21 years. In this month’s episode they discuss how HopeChest Russia has grown over the last 25 years, the decision Masha made that changed the trajectory of her life, and how building relationships with orphanage graduates is breaking the cycle of poverty and orphanhood. Hop...
How Music is Unlocking the Potential of Children Living in Poverty: Interview with Londiwe Dlamini
October 07, 2019 22:00 - 38 minutes - 26.5 MBDo you remember the songs that have transformed your life? The songs that have met you on dark days and carried you to brighter seasons? Music's power to heal and encourage is universal, but today Londiwe Dlamini is sharing stories of music empowering youth in Eswatini. Londiwe is the Music Ministry Leader and spends her time mentoring the most vulnerable children in Eswatini's CarePoint communities. Part of her work includes discovering and unlocking children's potential and helping them t...
Interview with Simon Okello, Uganda's Sponsorship & Communications Manager
September 09, 2019 22:00 - 35 minutes - 16.3 MBSimon Okello is a man who makes instant friends. He has been working with Children’s HopeChest for over seven years and is Uganda’s Sponsorship and Communications Manager. In this position Simon gets to know the most vulnerable children and families in Uganda’s CarePoint communities and manages the processes of children joining and exiting the sponsorship program. He is loved by children at all of our Uganda CarePoints for his lightheartedness, compassion, advocacy, and many many jokes. Supp...
Interview with Simon Okello, Uganda's Sponsorship & Communications Manager
September 09, 2019 22:00 - 35 minutes - 16.3 MBSimon Okello is a man who makes instant friends. He has been working with Children’s HopeChest for over seven years and is Uganda’s Sponsorship and Communications Manager. In this position Simon gets to know the most vulnerable children and families in Uganda’s CarePoint communities and manages the processes of children joining and exiting the sponsorship program. He is loved by children at all of our Uganda CarePoints for his lightheartedness, compassion, advocacy, and many many jokes. Supp...
It All Started in Russia. Interview with Katya Celenina, Russia Country Director.
August 12, 2019 23:00 - 39 minutes - 27.2 MBThis year Children’s HopeChest is celebrating 25 years as an organization and we’re reflecting on where it all started. Katya Celenina, HopeChest Russia Country Director is recognized for her expertise in older orphan care, not just at HopeChest, but across Russia. She is one of HopeChest Russia’s most valuable assets! In this month’s episode, Katya shares about HopeChest’s beginning, how HopeChest CarePoints are breaking cycles of orphanhood, and the unique challenges and opportunities th...
Carolina + Stephanie, Are You Helping or Harming While Visiting Another Culture?
July 09, 2019 06:00 - 1 hour - 44.8 MBWhy doesn’t HopeChest allow travelers to bring bags full of toys to hand out to children? Why are HopeChest trips called “partner visits” and not “mission trips?” Why do we ask travelers to never leave behind money for children or locals? Why don’t travelers build or complete short-term projects while they’re visiting? All these questions and more answered by Guatemala CPM, Stephanie Mutert, who has been leading partner visits for 14 years, and Carolina Cardona, Guatemala Country Director w...
JoE Lombard, Grief Counseling Trainer
June 11, 2019 06:00 - 29 minutes - 13.4 MBToday we have a fun episode of “Build Relationships. Break Poverty.” This conversation is with JoE, who has spent at least 20 years emotionally supporting youth across various cultures, equipping adults to walk through grief counseling with vulnerable children, and delivering grief counseling training for HopeChest staff in Uganda and Eswatini. In today’s conversation we talk about some interesting topics, including how his name is not JoE, his favorite rugby team, and how he relates with th...
Carolina Cardona, Guatemala Country Director
May 13, 2019 07:00 - 37 minutes - 17.1 MBToday we’re thrilled to share this conversation with Carolina Cardona, who is HopeChest’s Country Director of Guatemala. Carolina is a delight to speak with and this conversation is particularly encouraging. Carolina tells the story of her childhood and life story with graciousness and strength. We discuss many topics in this interview, including responding to the calling to serve and how Children’s HopeChest’s work in Guatemala is unique from other organizations. You’ll want to hear Carolin...
Joseph Elotu, Uganda Country Director
April 08, 2019 15:00 - 27 minutes - 12.9 MBOn today’s episode of “Build Relationships. Break Poverty,” we’re sharing a conversation with Joseph, who is HopeChest’s Country Director of Uganda. Joseph’s vision and love for his country is incredibly inspiring and we are blessed as an organization to have a man with so much passion to invest in Ugandan youth. In this interview, Joseph shares about his childhood, how HopeChest’s work in Uganda is unique from other nonprofits, and tells personal stories about how he has seen prayer answere...
Mickey Taye, Ethiopia Country Director
March 09, 2019 18:00 - 23 minutes - 10.8 MBToday we’re sharing a conversation with Mickey Taye, who is HopeChest’s Country Director of Ethiopia. Mickey is the newest Country Director to join the HopeChest team, but he’s already rocking the position with strength, insight, and passion for his work. In this personal interview, Mickey shares about his background in child advocacy, the opportunities and challenges that Ethiopia’s youth are facing, and personal stories of children’s lives being rewritten into stories of hope. I hope you e...
Bheki Motsa, Eswatini Senior Manager of Programs
February 11, 2019 07:00 - 36 minutes - 16.7 MBOn today’s episode of “Build Relationships. Break Poverty.” we are sitting down with Eswatini’s Senior Manager of Programs, Bheki Motsa. Bheki is one of three senior managers, oversees all HopeChest programs, and carries an instrumental position in all of the growth and development of work being accomplished in Eswatini. He completed training in the Swazi Leadership Academy, and is now one of Matt Gerber’s “right-hand staff.” In this episode, Bheki candidly shares about his childhood and ho...