2020 Top-Rated Nonprofit

Children's Future International

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Nonprofit Overview

Causes: International, International Relief

Mission: Our mission is to foster a generation of educated, self-reliant and compassionate role models for Cambodia, by promoting child rights and offering 21st century education and opportunities to the poorest children in rural Cambodia. Our vision is a future where every Cambodian child is safe, healthy, educated and thriving.

Community Stories

41 Stories from Volunteers, Donors & Supporters

David A.6 Board Member

Rating: 5

11/09/2023

Children's Future is a wonderful organization. With over a decade of experience in helping children learn in a structured environment, the stories and outcomes have been life changing for hundreds of children. The leadership team is passionate about fulfilling their mission and the smiles and laughter amongst the staff and children are visible each and every day.

Previous Stories

Board Member

Rating: 5

07/25/2020

CFI does incredible work, bringing educational and social services to over 250 children in rural Cambodia. Many of these children had little hope of climbing out of very distressed situations, including extreme poverty and living with abusive parents. Now, several students have become leaders in their communities and are completing high school and college degrees.

CFI's team of 30+ very dedicated and compassionate staff provide an environment that is safe, engaging and fun! For 10+ years, CFI continues to innovate and help bring a brighter future to Cambodia.

ejacobson1 Donor

Rating: 5

10/07/2023

Excellent organization. Doing great things for children and families in Cambodia. Communication and operations are very transparent.

futurefund General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/07/2023

We are impressed that the organization has a plan and is implementing the plan not only to provide education for children but also to provide the tools to help them make life decisions to get out of the extreme poverty of the area. Their programs and personnel, many of whom actually came up through the programs, are dedicated and achieve results with the funds they receive, we feel our donation is used responsibly and is achieving results.

Lilla Smid Board Member

Rating: 5

09/07/2023

CFI is an outstanding organization in the world of NGO's. With it's relative small size, the organization is constantly working towards it's mission to improve the lives of vulnerable children and their families in Battambang, Cambodia, giving them a chance for a better future. Through four main areas of activities - social work, learning center, education advocacy and special projects - CFI ensures a holistic approach to supporting the local community. I encourage everyone to learn more about the organization and take a look at the impact stories to see the real difference CFI is making!

Bruce Johnston Donor

Rating: 5

08/26/2023

Children's Future provides an education for the poorest children of Battambang, Cambodia. CFI works with the families to provide help so their kids can attend school rather than work or beg to help their families. That support may be food or it may be a bicycle to get to and from school. CFI also works hard to prevent abuse and child trafficking in Cambodia.

One of the reasons I support CFI is because it is localized. They support one community. You can hear about and see the results. My donation is not lost in the bureaucracy of larger charities. I also like CFI's approach to educating these kids to grow and give back to their community. Many of their graduates have gone on to higher education and responsible jobs in the community. Thank you to all the CFI staff.

Previous Stories

Donor

Rating: 5

10/11/2019

Children's Future goes above and beyond the normal educational nonprofit. Their work with poor and disadvantaged children in Cambodia is not only in the classroom but in the homes and community of these children. CFI does not just want to provide these children an education, they want to show them a better world for themselves and their community. Their hard work and dedication is showing great results as the program progresses. Thank you CFI.

DanGilberstadt Board Member

Rating: 5

08/16/2023

Children's Future International (CFI) is a remarkable non-profit organization that has truly made a significant impact on the lives of underprivileged children in rural Cambodia. With an inspiring mission and a clear vision, CFI is dedicated to improving the lives of vulnerable children in Battambang province, and their unwavering commitment shines through in the diverse range of programs they offer.

At the heart of CFI's mission is their dedication to providing access to quality education. Through their supplementary education programs, they are creating a path for young minds to thrive. By offering classes in Khmer, Math, English, and Computer Science, CFI ensures that children receive a holistic education that prepares them for a brighter future. The Learning Center's approach, where children attend public school in the morning and then participate in afternoon classes, showcases the organization's innovative approach to education, maximizing the impact of each child's learning journey.

CFI's holistic approach to child well-being is truly commendable. Their social work team's efforts to reach around 400 children and young people through case management, counseling, emergency food support, livelihood support, and housing support reflect their dedication to not only academic success but also the overall physical and emotional well-being of the children they serve. By providing essential training in positive parenting, safe migration, and domestic violence prevention, CFI empowers families and communities to create a nurturing environment for their children's growth.

One of the standout aspects of CFI's work is their commitment to collaboration and systemic change. Their efforts to train government social workers and residential care institution staff, as well as their work to reintegrate children into community care and transition care centers to provide alternative activities, demonstrate a deep understanding of the broader context in which they operate. By strengthening the entire child protection ecosystem, CFI is playing a pivotal role in creating a more secure and supportive environment for Cambodia's children.

CFI's advocacy education team's dedication to keeping over 200 students in school and providing re-enrollment support showcases their determination to combat dropout rates and ensure that more children have access to education. The workshops they provide not only encourage academic pursuit but also instill a sense of ambition and empowerment in the young minds they reach.

Beyond academics, CFI's special projects encompass leadership programs, youth empowerment, and professional preparation, providing invaluable opportunities to nearly 1,000 students. These initiatives empower students like Sophannak, who face daily challenges in continuing their education, to dream bigger and reach for their goals.

It's clear that CFI's impactful work is a result of a collective effort, and their plea for support is both genuine and crucial. As a supporter, you become a vital part of CFI's journey to transform lives and create a brighter future for Cambodia's children. With their dedication, innovative programs, and collaborative approach, Children's Future International is a beacon of hope that is truly making a difference in the lives of underprivileged children in rural Cambodia.

Kleenhouts Volunteer

Rating: 5

08/16/2023

CFI is a wonderful organization that upholds their mission, values and ethical focus. They work hard to serve children and do a wonderful job at such. They are constantly seeking out further opportunities to serve and make sure they are consistent at staying trauma informed and person centered. I am honored to work with such a wonderful organization.

GemmaM Board Member

Rating: 5

08/16/2023

I was introduced to CFI when I worked for a foundation exploring new organisations to support, CFI stood out to me as solid and effective and one to keep an eye on. CFI work closely within the community ensuring a families first approach - this ensures that children stay in family environments which are proven to be better for their development and mental health, CFI also work hard in the community to support with education and other needs. They work ethically and follow best practice. As a charity / NGO professional of over 20 years I am proud to volunteer as a board member, and did my due diligence to learn about CFI before getting involved and was very impressed with what I saw.

Susie J.1 Board Member

Rating: 5

08/11/2020

This organization is working so hard to educate kids in Cambodia to be effective members of the middle class when they grow up. Lee and Zoey run our school and have successfully brought many organizations on board to help fund us. I am currently in the board. When you research what the teachers and social workers have done during this pandemic, you can’t help but be impressed. So many of these students don’t have enough to eat, no supervision and many of them have been left to take care of themselves while their families try to go to neighboring counties for work. Our school makes sure the students are all safe and taken care of. I can’t say enough good things about this organization

Previous Stories

Board Member

Rating: 5

10/10/2019

I have worked with Children’s Future for over 2 years now.. Each time I hear about things they are doing I am more impressed. In fact I think we in the United States should learn from many of their policies especially in the poorer parts of cities. Having such resources as the school provides children is such a positive experience for them. As you can tell from the things they do our administrators are well educated and love what they do. Thank you all for making such a difference in these children’s lives.

Rodolfo C. Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

08/07/2020

I know CFI since its beginnings - and I have met and accompanied many of its students and children on their path to adulthood. CFI alway has done a great effort and a great job in developing the best qualities of the individuals, intellectually and morally. Employees and Management were always chosen not only because of their professional qualities, but also due to their personal Integrity and respect for the others. That's what makes Children's Future International so Special amongst all other charities.

Previous Stories

Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

09/26/2019

I know CFI since it started its operations. It has done a great work in the country and it has helped many children change their lives. So many CFI graduates are now transmitting their knowledge and their solid human values to children and the community they live in. CFI has proved to be an excellent NGO with a clear and continuously improving strategy in making things better.

dinolino

dinolino Donor

Rating: 5

08/04/2020

I visited the center for the third time this January. I am always amazed at the wonderful work the team does every day for disadvantaged children so that they can have a future as well. I am proud that the work also bears fruit. I have seen some shy children grow into extroverted adults with a university degree. Others have opted for vocational training and are now earning enough to support themselves and their families.

Every single employee works with passion and despite the exceptional situation due to the corona virus, they made it possible for the children to study.

Keep it up. My appreciation can hardly be put into words.

Julius K.

Julius K. Volunteer

Rating: 5

08/03/2020

Children's Future International (CFI) is a truly great organisation and for the last eight years of my life, I've been happily involved as a member of an association in Germany which was set up to support CFI. The dedication of the staff is incredible. I truly admire CFI's thoughtful and structured approach to helping the Community of Ek Phnom. I can wholeheartedly recommend to learn more about CFI and support it with whatever you can afford.

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pasimme Board Member

Rating: 5

07/06/2020

Children's Future International (CFI) is a fantastic organization! They provide essential services to many children, and families, in need. This not only helps them with education, but also helps prevent the dangers of trafficking and abuse. I have personally visited the learning center in Battambang; it was wonderful to see the how the staff and teachers really care about the students, and how professional and organized the environment was. If you are looking to support a non-profit, please consider CFI.

jacobson_p2 Board Member

Rating: 5

07/05/2020

Children's Future International is a wonderful organization. CFI provides education, community development and well-being to a marginalized community in Cambodia. I'm honored to be associated with the organization, and couldn't be more proud of the work that the CFI team performs.

guymosel Board Member

Rating: 5

07/05/2020

I volunteered for Children's Future last year as part of the Australian government's overseas volunteer program and have since joined the organisation's board. It's an incredibly admired and influential nonprofit with a deep and sustainable connection to the people of Cambodia's Battambang region who use its services and form part of its community.

It treats its mission, to protect vulnerable children and families and create opportunity where none has previously existed, with seriousness and sensitivity, and is working earnestly towards a future where the organisation will be operated entirely by members of the local community.

I urge others to support Children's Future in whatever way they can.

Previous Stories

Board Member

Rating: 5

10/06/2019

I worked for six months this year as a volunteer at Children's Future, and have just recently been appointed to the board. It's a well-run and much-respected organisation that does important work to protect vulnerable children in a difficult, complicated and often high-risk environment. I'm privileged to have had the opportunity to contribute and encourage everyone to do the same, whether through financial assistance or volunteering your time.

Mark T.5 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

07/05/2020

There are many charitable organizations working in Battambang, but this one must be the best. I have been fortunate to meet some of the staff and management of CFI.
I know they have achieved the highest levels of experience and professionalism within their field.
CFI's support for vulnerable families in the local community through social welfare and education is vital.
During the pandemic, their great work is more important than ever.
By empowering people to take control of their lives gives them so many more opportunities that would not be possible without Children's Future International's help.
Long may they continue.

Bill.Taylor Donor

Rating: 5

07/03/2020

After working with CFI for several years now, visiting them on several occasions, and getting to know their leaders I can say without hesitation that this organization is first rate and doing high quality work in support of vulnerable village kids. They have my strongest recommendation.

melissa.theesen Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

07/03/2020

Amazing nonprofit that follows the highest standards, uses innovative ideas in all it does, and truly helps children and young adults achieve educational dreams once unimaginable. Can’t recommend this organization enough.

Previous Stories

Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

09/21/2019

I've been involved with Children's Future as a staff member, donor, Board Member, and overall supporter since 2012. The organization has grown and matured in truly incredible ways. Children's Future attracts top notch humanitarians and forward thinkers. I've become increasingly impressed with the movement toward sustainable practices. While other organizations in the space might think about short-term options, Children's Future embraces long term solutions for both the organization and most importantly, for the children and families served. Seeing children grow from grade school to university is truly remarkable. Children who would have otherwise struggled to make it through school are attending university and securing professional jobs. I could share so many stories about Children's Future International's success and ability to overcome adversity. This organization is fiscally responsible, innovative, compassionate, and truly one of a kind.

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vivruth General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

09/25/2019

The work this team do to support families and the community is wonderful- they aim to empower and grow an independent community rather than to hook people in to dependence on aid . They are small but the results are very evident in the communities hat they support .

Lina W. Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

09/25/2019

Helping poor family and support child to study higher like school material , school uniform , scholarship to student in the area and give a good opportunity for them to learn , get experience by working as volunteer at CFI.

Austin K.2 Board Member

Rating: 5

09/19/2019

I have been involved with Children's Future (CFI) for around 5 years, on both the US and Cambodian side of operations. CFI stands out among its field as an innovative child and family services organization committed to sustainably transforming the communities of rural Cambodia.

What sets CFI apart:
- A holistic approach to child well-being, that involves the family and community in the children's safety, education, and health.
- A commitment to keeping families together, in favor of residential care--a long-standing, but often problematic, practice in Cambodian child services.
- A focus on grass-roots and community led organization with local leaders and other NGOs at regional and national levels.
- Programming that moves families towards self-sufficiency and independence, rather than keeping them on CFI services indefinitely.
- A commitment to sharing knowledge and experience with organizations across the country and globe.

But, at the end of the day, it's the genuine warmth and compassion among everyone in the CFI community (staff, students, social workers, parents), that keeps me invested in its success.

CassieWright Board Member

Rating: 5

09/18/2019

Children’s Future is an amazing organization. I am a Board Member who originally became interested in the organization through a colleague. When my husband and I visited the Learning Center, we saw first hand the amazing work the organization is doing with a very minimal budget.

peter.jacobson Board Member

Rating: 5

09/17/2019

Children's Future International is a wonderful organization. I'm a Board member, and became involved after learning about the impressive work performed by the team at Children's Future. Through child well being, education and community development, Children's Future makes an incredible impact on the lives of marginalized children in Battambang, Cambodia. I'm proud to be associated with such a stellar nonprofit.

Peter V. Board Member

Rating: 5

10/21/2013

I've been a Board Member for several years and have been consistently impressed by how much is being achieved with little funding. The organization has done a great job of evolving to providing numerous services, serving the entire child, while maintaining a focus on education and breaking the cycle of poverty.

For many of the poorest of the poor, CFI has a created a safe oasis for children who finally have a chance to grow and fully develop, as all children should.

Previous Stories
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Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/26/2012

I have been on the board of this charity for three years and watched it grow and develop into an amazing organization. CFI helps hundreds of children in Cambodia who are too poor to attend traditional school. CFI truly fills a niche and provides forgotten children with a chance. I have sponsored 2 children for years and would recommend CFI to anyone who really wants to make a difference. The are breaking the cycle of poverty by teaching these kids english and computer skills to help them get good, sustainable jobs so they can help themselves out of poverty and become leaders in their community. There's no religious affiliation and i can personally vouch for the founders' dedication and motivation - i have been personal friends with one of the the founders for almost 15 years and have watched him build CFI and dedicate his life to it.

1

Griet H. Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

11/21/2012

As a teacher trainer I have seen many schools and communities worldwide. I am in awe to see how within a relatively short period of time CFI has put so much in place that really serves children, young people and families that need it most. A flexible, differentiating and intelligent combination of services addresses the basic needs and rights of each child and family cooperating with the Center, while creating a foundation for a way out of the dire conditions they were born into.

kayzey Donor

Rating: 5

11/18/2012

Putting children first is what CFI is about. While traveling around Southeast Asia, Andrew & Jenny fell in love with the children in a small village & spent the next several years dedicating their own lives to saving them - in terms of their physical health, their emotional health & their intellect/achievement. They created a safe, warm, nurturing, caring & stimulating environment for these kids to survive & to thrive. Kudos to Andrew & Jenny for all that they have done & hopefully, with enough people giving them financial support, will be able to continue to do.

kathie22 Volunteer

Rating: 5

11/16/2012

I spent time at CFI 2 years ago and was amazed how Andrew and Jenny have created this space where 200 at-risk children have a chance to be children...to go to school, to play, to be exposed to music and dance and computers, to be respected. Some children had just learned how to play chess when I visited and beat me repeatedly. A soccer field had been cleared and it was quite a sight to see these barefoot children playing together as a team. These children have so many hardships to deal with but can find a safe and nurturing place at the center with a wonderful group of hardworking and passionate volunteers who really care.

RodolfoC Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

11/15/2012

I’ve been working with Children’s Future International both, on the ground in Cambodia with the children and staff as well as for the Board, supporting CFI also on more strategic matters on several occasions. We have learned CFI to be an organization that is based on strong values and respect for the child. In only a few years since it was founded, CFI has also tackled important strategic, ethical and governance issues and has built a solid foundation on which its activities can develop. We were so obviously convinced about the quality of work done in Cambodia but also about the clearly focused mindset and the positive spirit emanating from all people involved. That convinced us to give an extra effort by founding a local organization in Switzerland last year, which is aimed at supporting CFI in all their endeavors.

Linda157 Volunteer

Rating: 5

11/15/2012

Denny and I met cofounders Jenny and Andrew in Battambang 5 years ago. We were very impressed with their thoughtful efforts to help the children in Cambodia. We followed their progress on their website and after two years were able to spend a month volunteering with them. We were amazed at their progress in such a little time and with support of only a few donors. Since then we have been back each January to support their efforts. CFI is a wonderful place where the children's welfare comes first. Jenny and Andrew have dedicated themselves to helping the poorest children in Cambodia. We have learned so much from them both. We now work at home volunteering with their sponsorship and fundraising efforts when we can. Denny also has been invited to serve on their Board of Directors. if you are looking for a good ethical place to support, where your efforts and funds go to the children first, this is the place to go. CFI rocks! Denny and Linda

Sandy38 Volunteer

Rating: 5

11/02/2012

What a wonderful organization CFI is! I have been supporting a child for over a year and was able to volunteer at the Center in Battambang last January. It is so uplifting to see the difference being made, through this non-profit, in hundreds of Cambodian lives--students, staff and families! It is incredible to see the progress made in four short years--a dedicated staff, competent leadership, eager students, an adequate facility, all contribute to the community by serving the whole child in so many ways.

1

z.schro Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/30/2012

I discovered Children's Future International through a friend in Battambang, Cambodia, and was immediately impressed by the organization's heart for children in need. At CFI everyone is really dedicated to the whole child, and dealing with whatever situations come up. They have a very child-centered approach and really listen to the needs of the community and families they serve. In that way I know that all of their resources are going to the children in the district that are the most at risk and those resources are used to make the biggest impact. I began volunteering in small ways, and then started teaching English and Computer classes. Now my wife and I have been volunteering at CFI full-time for a year, and feel that this is the best possible place we could be in order to empower Cambodian youth and protect the most at-risk children in the region.

2

andrewgwolff Board Member

Rating: 5

10/26/2012

I am privileged to co-lead an organization that is profoundly changing the lives of hundreds of Cambodia's most impoverished children. I strongly believe that CFI's approach of serving the 'whole child' with both well-being and education programs in a safe and nurturing environment is working. Over 225 children who were at high risk of forced labor and children trafficking are now back in school learning to read and write in their native Khmer as well as in English. They are learning computer skills, playing soccer and developing trusting relationships with both their peers and teachers. There is no question that many CFI students are developing into positive role models who will become professionals and future community leaders.

1

jonathan1 Volunteer

Rating: 5

02/11/2010

Children's Future International is an incredible non-profit organization! Operating a community center in Cambodia, CFI has been instrumental in aiding children living near the city of Battambang in northwest Cambodia. The community center provides not only a safe place for social interaction, but also Khmer literacy classes, computer courses, English classes, creativity classes, vocational training, nutritional supplementation, and health-care for local children. My personal involvement stems from a book that I read called "To Destroy You Is No Loss". It's the true story of how a Cambodian family survived the Khmer Rouge takeover during the mid to late 70's. The heartbreaking trials they went through are things many people can only imagine. As fortune would have it, my mother met one of the co-directors of Children's Future International last year. Since that time she has become their chief fundraising coordinator. Children's Fund International is just the type of organization I was seeking for to make a difference and I feel privileged to be involved. The funds are used extremely responsibly to ensure that the children benefit directly. Please take time to review their website! http://www.childrensfutureinternational.org. If you have any questions or want to volunteer your help, please contact me at (801) 427-6388 or write to jonathan@childrensfutureinternational.org

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