In 2010, a friend who had helped implement preschool curriculum for CACZ/ACE introduced me to this fabulous organization. I have four now-grown brothers from Zambia, and I had always wanted to see where they grew up and work in their home communities. I chose to travel to Zambia by myself so that I could work with CACZ and visit the extended families of my brothers. My 2 1/2 weeks in Zambia were the best of my life. I was always safe, but what was better was seeing how well cared for the children in each of the three homes are. They are well fed, clean, and happy. Most importantly, they are loved. I enjoyed hugging on, praying over, and playing with the children and forming relationships with them. As a teacher, I cherished the opportunity to work alongside the Zambian teachers a few times. The late night conversations with the staff during 2 am feedings was precious. A huge goal of ACE is to help CACZ be self-sufficient, and they are certainly on track to seeing this become reality. The Zambian staff is dedicated 100% to caring for these children and helping them become successful adults. No one wants to see a child become and orphan, but in Zambia, if a child goes through crisis, CACZ is the best place to be. My husband and I are now Safety Net sponsors for a child. It is a blessing returned to use one hundred fold.

What sets ACE apart from other NGOs is that the work is a true partnership. Alliance for Children Zambia is the Zambian part of the ministry that does the work. ACE brings training, skills, and helps from various volunteer teams. The Zambians participate greatly in decision making, running the programs on the ground. It's a model that gives pride to the Zambians.

The administration, staff and children are all wonderful. I stayed at the House of Moses which was clean and comfortable and the food provided was very good. I had a wonderful experience and would recommend this organization highly to anyone considering volunteer work.