Annual report: Chair’s note
Annual report: Our financials
A life’s experience reinforces the “transformative might of education” in the world of a child
Through the generosity and support of our many donors and partners, Children Believe breaks down barriers to education to create a future of hope for children, families, and communities, giving them the ability to make their own choices and determine their own future, so they can dream fearlessly — stand up for what they believe in — and to be heard.
Expenditures
M
y journey, from growing up in Ethiopia, has instilled in me a profound perspective on the world. Witnessing both the stark economic disparities and the incredible potential for change has ignited my belief in our collective power to break the chains of poverty and injustice. More recently, as a member of Children Believe’s board of directors, I’ve directly experienced similar stories from Africa, South Asia and Latin America that have left an enduring mark on me. Thankfully, Children Believe, alongside our local partners, is shattering barriers that hinder children’s access to education, forging a path for them to flourish and learn. Through our expansive network of country offices, our global movement remains resolute in confronting the adversities that deprive children of their potential. From combatting child marriage to ensuring access to clean water, promoting gender parity and championing children’s rights, we are cultivating strong and resilient communities. United, we are touching the lives of 1.3 million children and community members annually. As an educator and one who benefitted from my family’s commitment to education, I recognize the transformative might of education and the doors it opens for those who receive it. The profound impact education has on a child’s trajectory is immeasurable. Globally, parents share a common thread, an unconditional love for our children and an unyielding desire to equip them with the tools for a promising future. It’s with immense privilege that I stand as part of an organization committed to levelling the playing field, ensuring every child has the chance to unfold their true potential. To our cherished community of supporters, and Believers, I extend my heartfelt gratitude. Your unswerving dedication propels us towards our objectives. Special
Summarized Statement of Revenue and Expenditures Year ended March 31, 2023 [in thousands of dollars]
2023
2022
REVENUE Cash donations
22,915
21,437
Grants
5,786 6,711
5,042 2,504
Gifts-in-kind
76% Programs 14% Fundraising 10% Administration This chart is based on a five year average of our annual expenditures.
Investment & other income
565
415
TOTAL REVENUE
35,977
29,398
acknowledgement goes to our outgoing chair, Gabriel Olivier. His leadership, steadfast support and resolute advocacy have set an exceptional precedent for our work. Every child deserves the liberty to dream without constraint. Our mission is to forge a path of education that empowers them to shape their own destiny, detaching their future from the shackles of injustice and vicious cycle of poverty. Thank you for your continued dedication and generosity. Over the past five years, I've had the privilege of closely collaborating with our remarkable board members, witnessing firsthand the outstanding endeavors undertaken by our dedicated staff and partners, who tirelessly work towards our goals. And now, as I assume the role of Board Chair at Children Believe, I feel truly honoured and privileged. With humility and gratitude, I embrace the opportunity to be a catalyst for change, together with all of you, on this remarkable voyage. Aklilu Mulat Chair of the Board In Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Aklilu, second from right, supports a number of projects to help youth overcome barriers to education.
EXPENDITURES Programs Education
12,885
12,450
Health and nutrition
9,300 4,910
5,730 3,766
Sustainable development
CHILDREN BELIEVE is an independent, autonomous organization that directly funds programs and projects in our country offices, working with trusted national partner organizations. We proudly support local communities, employing passionate, highly qualified national personnel to manage and lead our work.
Emergency response
717
214
Total programs
27,812
22,160
Fundraising
6,526 3,940
3,706 3,023
Administration
TOTAL EXPENDITURES
38,278
28,889
(Deficit) Surplus
(2,301)
509
Children show their appreciation at a school in Ghana where they have access to school classes thanks to generous donor support through Children Believe.
Our Board of Directors
As of September 1, 2023 AKLILU MULAT, CHAIR KAREN FONSETH- SCHLOSSBERG, VICE- CHAIR
VAFA AKHAVAN, DIRECTOR JUDITH D’SOUZA, DIRECTOR MARY KOSTA-CADAS, DIRECTOR MONA MITCHELL, DIRECTOR MELISSA SARIFFODEEN, DIRECTOR
GABRIEL OLLIVIER, PAST-CHAIR MICHAEL RUTHARD, TREASURER ANTHONY RUFFOLO, SECRETARY
Thank you to our valued supporters for helping to make a lasting change in the lives of children.
ChildVoice 2023 ANNUAL REPORT ISSUE 17
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