Kuda Vana partnership supports children & families in Zimbabwe through: our family empowerment program · adoption · foster care · placement in Kuda Vana Children’s Home
Play is often talked about as if it was a relief from serious learning, but for children, play is serious learning play is really the work of childhood. –Fred Rogers
Build Families
Our goal is to place children in forever families through safe reunification, domestic adoption or foster care. In the meantime, we provide small, family-oriented homes where each child can grow and thrive physically, spiritually and emotionally.
Children First
The children we serve come first. Always. We do for our few what we’d like to do for many. In this way, we can invest deeply in each child who comes to us.
Prepare for the Future
We are committed to ensuring each young person has the knowledge, skills and confidence to become selfsufficient adults. This means we provide personalized, quality education from preschool through college or trade school.
Community Driven
We believe that Zimbabweans know the needs of their country’s children the best. Our local leadership team runs operations, implements initiatives and develops overall strategy, while our stateside team works to secure resources.
Address the Past
We proactively seek to heal the wounds children have experienced through group and individual therapy with an on-staff psychologist. Additionally, we provide all staff with annual trauma training.
family values
Christ-Centered
We introduce each child in our care to a Creator who has designed them each with unique gifts and endowed them with intrinsic value, regardless of their family circumstances. We respect each child’s choice of belief system, but desire that when they leave us they are well-acquainted with a Father in heaven who will never harm or abandon them.
A Word from our Leaders - AND MANY THANKS
Dear Donors, Board of Directors, and Stakeholders,
I am deeply grateful for your unwavering commitment to our cause throughout 2023. Amidst the challenges, there were triumphs that stand as a testament to the resilience of our Kuda Vana family. Your unwavering support, coupled with the dedication of our team, propelled us forward.
Every child deserves the warmth and stability of a family, and through expanding our Family Program, we took significant strides towards this ideal. By appointing a specialized Social Worker, we facilitated adoptions, foster placements, and family reunifications, ensuring a brighter future for four children who found loving homes.
Additionally, the year posed significant medical challenges, particularly for one of our children battling Cerebral Palsy.
I am pleased to
share that arrangements are underway to transition him to a facility equipped to provide the specialized attention he requires, thus easing our financial strain while ensuring his continued wellfare.
Our investment in education reached new heights with the inauguration of the Kuda Vana School’s state-of-the-art classroom block and family residence. This establishment not only provides our children with a conducive learning environment but also offers our educators the space and resources they need to nurture young minds.
Gratitude fills my heart as I acknowledge the generous donations after our vehicle accident that have transformed our operational capacity. With the addition of a working vehicle, we can continue to navigate logistical hurdles with ease, ensuring the seamless delivery of our programs to those who depend on us.
As we look towards the future, let us continue to stand together in solidarity, guided by compassion and driven by the belief that every child deserves a chance to thrive.
With heartfelt gratitude,
As we bid farewell to 2023, we are compelled to express our deepest gratitude for the profound impact your support has had on the lives of vulnerable children in Zimbabwe. Your generosity has been nothing short of a beacon of hope.
Throughout this year, your compassionate contributions allowed us to witness heartwarming stories of love and resilience. One remarkable moment was the fostering of two children by a loving family. Their newfound home, filled with love and strength, is a testament to the positive change we can achieve together. It is the powerful moments of hope, such as this one, that give us the strength to continue doing the work of caring for the most vulnerable children of Zimbabwe.
crucial role in establishing the Family House, where hopeful adoptive and foster families receive essential trauma training. These initiatives are integral to a support system that empowers families and fosters strong bonds, ensuring a smooth transition for children entering their care.
As we look ahead to 2024, our optimism is fueled by the belief that more children will find forever families, and the Youth Transition Program will be fully funded. Your unwavering generosity and collective efforts make these aspirations possible. Thank you, from the depths of our hearts, for being a beacon of hope. Your kindness has left a mark on the lives of these children, and we are profoundly grateful for your continued support.
William Pepukai Director
The Kuda Vana Adoption Advocacy Event marked a pivotal moment in breaking down historical barriers that hindered families in Zimbabwe from adopting or fostering children. Your contributions played a
With heartfelt gratitude, John & Colleen Ordelheide, Managing Trustees
I am thrilled to join the Kuda Vana Partnership Team as the Director of Development, and I have been channel my energy into uplifting the children and families we serve. As a Zimbabwean myself, it brings me great joy to be able to serve some of the most vulnerable families and children in my home country. My name translates to "fortitude" in Shona, symbolizing a steadfast hope in God's providence. Fortitude is defined in the dictionary as, “courage in pain or adversity”.
I have heard the stories of fortitude our Kuda Vana Children’s Home staff has shown in the face of trying times. I have heard the stories of fortitude our young adults in our Youth Transition Program have shown as they work hard to build brighter futures for
themselves with our help. And I have even heard the stories from many of you, our donors, our extended Kuda Vana family, as you have continued to faithfully give, even as life circumstances have changed.
As we continue on in this work of supporting and loving the vulnerable children and families in Zimbabwe who are within our reach, I want to thank each and every one of you for giving to the work we do. It is through your selfless gifts that we are empowered to make a lasting impact.
Vimbo Watson, Director of Development
Message our Board Chair, tami Denney
On behalf of the entire Kuda Vana Partnership International board, I extend our gratitude for your support of our organization. Your commitment to our cause has been remarkable and has played a crucial role in our efforts to make a meaningful difference in the lives of vulnerable children, young adults, and families in Zimbabwe.
Last year presented us with both challenges and sweet moments as we walked alongside the children of Kuda Vana. Together, we navigated through obstacles and celebrated the milestones. At Kuda Vana, our Mamas and staff shared birthday cakes and band aids with our children, all while showing love and care for them. Your contributions have enabled us to provide essential support and services to those who need it most, ensuring every child can thrive in a nurturing environment.
Last year presented us with both challenges and sweet moments as we walked alongside the children of Kuda Vana. Together, we navigated through obstacles and celebrated the milestones. At Kuda Vana, our Mamas and staff shared birthday cakes and bandaids with our children, all while showing love and care for them. Your contributions have enabled us to provide essential support and services to those who need it most, ensuring every child can thrive in a nurturing environment.
Your generosity, particularly in the face of unexpected challenges like replacing our damaged vehicle, has been a lifeline for us. From the children under our care at Kuda Vana to the families in the community we support and the young adults transitioning out of residential care, your support has been the driving force behind our endeavors.
We are thrilled to share our ongoing commitment to promoting family-based care and adoption in Zimbabwe. We firmly believe that every child deserves the love and stability of a caring family environment, and we are steadfast in our dedication to supporting initiatives that bring this vision to fruition. We are optimistic as we continue our mission to help vulnerable children and families in Zimbabwe. As we partner together, we are confident that we can create a brighter future for children in need, while breaking the cycle of poverty.
Thank you once again for your generosity and compassion.
Together, we are making a tangible difference in the lives of those we serve.
Warm regards,
Tami Denney Kuda Vana Partnership International Board Chair
Meet our zimbabwe team - LOTS OF LOVE
“Kuda Vana is not your typical orphanage. I view it as a ‘high performance facility’ where we rely on the high levels of genuine commitment from all our stakeholders, donors, friends, staff and family. What makes Kuda Vana interesting is a combination of all the efforts of the society that works around the clock for the benefit of the children at Kuda Vana.”
– Davis Mundirwira, Administrator
“At their old public school, our children were bullied and called orphans, which ruined their self esteem. Here at the Kuda Vana school, we don’t call names, we don’t label one another. They are all children from God. I have so much love for the children at Kuda Vana. They mean a lot to me. They have taught me so many things. I have been taught how to love at Kuda Vana. I have been taught how to care for someone at Kuda Vana. I just want to thank God for letting me be here.”
– Madame Esther, 3rd-5th Grade Teacher
what we do - PROGRAMS
Children’s Home
EVERY CHILD DESERVES A PLACE TO CALL HOME.
Our campus near Mutare, Zimbabwe provides a safe, family-oriented environment for up to 50 children ages 0-17 in four family-style group homes and a nursery. The professional staff lovingly care for our children there.
Primary School
EDUCATION TRANSFORMS THE LIFE OF A CHILD.
Our on-campus primary school emotionally and academically prepares students for the future by providing personalized education from our professional teachers.
Youth Transition Program
SUCCESS NOW AND IN THE FUTURE.
In our family, we aim to equip each child for self-sufficient adulthood. This includes temporary housing, tuition, and income-generating opportunities for young people ages 18 to 23.
Thrive Farming Program
FARMING TEACHES LIFE SKILLS ABOUT NUTRITION AND SELF-SUFFICIENCY.
This program ensures that each young person leaves our campus knowing how to grow and harvest their own food. It provides enhanced nutrition and food security, fostering and developing important life skills for children and staff.
FAM ily (Foster · Adopt · Mentor) Program
FAMILY EMPOWERMENT IS KEY.
We prioritize safe reunification when possible or connection with Christian families through fostering, adoption, or mentoring when necessary.
Family Assistance Program
FAMILY IS BEST.
We work to strengthen and help keep vulnerable families intact through seed and food distribution, medical assistance, trauma training, and more.
Redemptive Dance Ministries PARTNERSHIP
The power of movement
RDM's mission is to create a Christcentered space for dance education, aiming to glorify God and redeem the art of dance and the beauty of every human body for His Kingdom. Through weekly dance and Bible study sessions with children at Kuda Vana, their local team fosters spiritual and artistic growth. Their recent debut performance at a local home for the elderly marked a significant achievement, resonating as a tremendous success for both the dancers and the audience.
Expressions of faith & joy
Through dance, our children have found a path to thrive. RDM's ministry has infused joy, confidence, and the teachings of Jesus into the lives of vulnerable children. Leveraging Zimbabwe's rich cultural tradition of dance, RDM channels this energy into beautiful expressions of faith and joy. Their weekly visits not only foster positive local relationships but also provide a healthy means for our children to engage with the community.
2023 MAJOR HIGHLIGHTS
“We love that the children at Kuda Vana are treated like family in so many ways. They have small group homes, receive an excellent education and counseling to help them with emotional wounds and learn practical work that will help them throughout their lives. The children continue to be a part of the family when they reach adulthood and are supported as they prepare for an occupation. We also love that the staff are local and well qualified to work with the children.”
-Kuda Vana Donor
2023 FINANCIALS
These financials represent the combined work of Kuda Vana Partnership International (a U.S. 501(c)3 and Kuda Vana Partnership Trust (a Zimbabwe organization implementing programs).
**Kuda Vana Partnership International has specific donors who cover administrative and fundraising costs, allowing 100% of all other gifts to go directly to programs.
Major DONORS
A sincere thank you to everyone who contributed in 2023. You empowered the most vulnerable children of Zimbabwe to not just survive, but thrive.
$25,000+
ASI Missions, Inc.
Brian & Tami Denney
DeNeice Worthington
Steve & Jodi Veluscek
$10,000 - $24,999
Aleta Johnson
Don Krein*
Dr. Bill Boyle & Karen Lewis
Dr. Lee & Melanie Arthur
Dr. Randy & Cindy Haffner
John & Colleen Ordelheide
Loren & Karen Seery
Nickie Rocchio
North Hills Church of Seventh-Day Adventists
$5,000 - $9,999
Brian & Sarah Rouse
Carl & Brenda Hall
Caroline & Loren Wright
Dietmar & Audra Grellmann
Dr. David & Janelle Smith
Dr. James Lee
Dr. Jill Chrispens
Dr. Karl & Bobbi Ordelheide
Eden's Vista Farm
Erwin Family Foundation*
Gary & Gina Schlisner
Gerald & Cheryl Curry
Kevin Wasli
Lindsey Apple
$2,500 - $4,999
360 Media
Daaron & Kimberly Hartman
Dorothy Cheeseman*
Dr. Bruce & Cheryl McArthur
Dr. Tre & Karah Thompson
Duane & Gay Wilson*
Eliana Grabiner
Eric & Jennifer Brodis
Joe & Amy Boulnois
Michael & Linda Wood
Nic & Joy Owens
Oz & Sherry Muller
Ron & Connie Dupper
Southport SDA Church*
Thomas & Juanita Byrd
$1,000 - $2,499
Abigail Peterson
Adam Baker
Amber Lee
Beth Boram*
Bruce & Diana Hamberger
Carl & Teresa Wilkens*
Carol Bolden
Charles Larson
Collette Chinyerere
Dawn Bookhardt
Dena Olson
Donnelly Johnson
Doug & Sue Bolejack
Dr. John Haworth
Dr. Julio Narvaez
Dr. Randy & Tamara Bivens
Ed & Jean Rouse
Edward & Linda Russell
Erik & Tara Petersen
Freda Hale
Gale & Sheryl Page
Graham & Ella Booyens*
Heather Orback
Janet Glass
Jeff & Jackie Gal
Joe Luce
Kelly Saracino
Lois Blackwelder*
Marvin & Carolyn Denney
Michael & Penny Smith
Michelle Deegan
Mike & Bobi Haugen
Natalie Rouse
Olivia Hale
Robert Jones
Ron & Tanya Cardwell
Ron Baxter
Ruth Nelbertha Richmond
Scott & Cami Ritsema
Sten & Julie Bolander
Vern & Carol Holsten*
Wayne & Linda Eastham
Will Baron
Other significant supporters
Anonymous
Alan & Tricia Carlson
Bellafina Chocolates
Redemptive Dance Ministries
Trevor & Gabrielle Boyson
*Support Kuda Vana through Amistad International
OUR VILLAGE MONTHLY DONORS
Anonymous*
Aaron and Becca
Dickerson
Adam Baker
Advent Truth Ministries
Aleta Johnson
Amber Lee
Angelique M. Sabo
Barbara Taylor
Becky Foster
Belt of Truth Ministries
Bern & Heather Schlageck
Beth McClanahan
Betty Hayman
Brian & Donna Carr
Brian & Tami Denney
Bruce & Diana Hamberger
Carl & Brenda, Jr Hall
Carol Bolden
Cathy Cusson
Cherise & Jered Salas
Christine J. O'Brien
Christine Kirkpatrick
Collette Chinyerere
Cynthia M Dansby
Daaron & Kimberly
Hartman
Danelle Herra
Dave & Jane Campbell
Dean Kiklis
Deborah Porter
Dena Olson
Donna Pershall
Donnelly Johnson
Doug & Sue Bolejack
Dr. Bill Boyle & Karen Lewis
Dr. Bruce & Cheryl McArthur
Dr. David & Janelle Smith
Dr. Dennis Wallstrom
Dr. Jill Chrispens
Dr. Nathan & Abby Helm
Duane & Gay Wilson
Eliana Grabiner
Erik & Tara Petersen
Freda Hale
Frontline Management
Gary & Gina Schlisner
Gerald & Cheryl Curry
Greg & Deborah Smith
Heather Orback
Ila Peterson
Ina Price
Jacquelin Carroll
James & Bobbie Stovall
Janet Rodelli
Jason J Lemon
Jean Boutcher
Jean Sommer
Jennifer Biddulph
Jerusha Siegel
Joe & Amy Boulnois
Joe Carpio
John & Colleen Ordelheide
Juanita Keeler
Karen A. Goebel
Katelyn Weyant
Kelly Saracino
Kevin Wasli
Lakaya Holmquist
Lindsey Apple
Lisa Neuharth
Loren & Karen Seery
Marvin & Carolyn Denney
Mary Carlin
Michelle Deegan
Mike & Bobi Haugen
Mundle's Remodeling LLC
Nyasha Madzikwah
Raylene West
Rindai Magezah
Rita Duncan
Robert Jones
Roland Anderson
Ron & Tanya Cardwell
Ruth Nelbertha Richmond
Ryan & Jaclyn Knight
Shannon Morgan
Stephanie Deree Eriksen
Stephen J. Sheel
Taylor Armstrong
Thomas & Juanita Byrd
Trevor & Gabrielle Boyson
Valerie Hawkins
Vern & Carol Holsten
Victoria Curtis
Vimbo & David Watson
“It takes a village to raise a child” (African proverb). Monthly donors are our village, ensuring each child has what they need just when they need it most. Thank you!
Board of DIRECTORS
U.S. Board of Directors
Tami Denney Chair Leadership Development Consultant, Aspen Leaf
Brian Denney Clinical Informaticist, Rady Children’s Hospital
Lori Hernandez Secretary Occupational Therapist
Busi Marandure Director, Touching Lives Inc.
Dany Herdandez Director of Mission Integration, AdventHealth
Karen Kotoske Executive Director, Amistad International
Zimbabwe Board of Directors
Steven Veluscek Chair, Founder CEO, Frontline Management
William Pepukai Director
John Ordelheide Managing Trustee
Kuda Vana Partnership Trust
Davis Mundirwira Administrator Kuda Vana Partnership Trust
Zimbabwe Advisory Board
Chiedza Ndhlovu Community Member
Richard Ndhlovu Audit Manager, GCAS
countless blessings MORE KIDS ADOPTED
from accident to multiple miracles
In 2023, an extraordinary event unfolded as God intervened in a harrowing situation. During a routine trip to the clinic in Zimbabwe, our Landcruiser carrying four babies and two caregivers flipped over, landing on its roof after the driver lost control, possibly due to a large pothole. Despite the inherent risks of such accidents, miraculously, none of the babies sustained visible injuries, and our staff only suffered minor yet painful wounds.
The incident underscored the critical need for a reliable vehicle in our daily operations at Kuda Vana, where the Landcruiser serves vital roles in medical visits, supply runs, and welfare checks for children reintegrated into families.
The overwhelming support and prayers from our community quickly provided the necessary funds for a replacement vehicle within weeks of the accident. How amazing! We are so grateful for the donations and support of our community of faithful donors.
2 adoptions, 1 child fostered, and 3 family reintegrations
In 2023, Kuda Vana saw remarkable strides in family dynamics, with two adoptions warmly solidifying new bonds, while the compassionate act of fostering welcomed one child into a nurturing environment. Additionally, three families experienced the joyous reunification of their loved ones, marking poignant moments of resilience and growth within the community.
Another highlight of the year was the success of the Thrive Farming program, where children learned sustainable farming practices, equipping them with life-long skills. With soil-stained hands and eager hearts, they cultivated crops and harvested not only food but also a sense of empowerment and pride. Through these endeavors, Kuda Vana continued to be a beacon of hope, nurturing the dreams and aspirations of every child under its care.
