Maisha International Orphanage (MIO) is a nonprofit humanitarian organization operating as a project of Congressional District Programs (CDP), a 501(c)3 whose purpose is to “Encourage Philanthropy by empowering people to help people.”   To learn more about CDP, go to www.cdprograms.org.

Maisha International was founded in 2006 by Beatrice Williamson in response to the critical aids crisis confronting the East African nation of Kenya.

Maisha International Orphanage is the result of one woman’s dream.  A sponsor gave Beatrice Williamson the tools she needed to rise above her circumstances and step into her destiny.  Now, her passion is to reach out to orphaned and destitute children and provide them with the same opportunity.  By making a difference in their lives, we create a brighter future for ourselves.  The fruition of Beatrice’s dream began in 2006, when she founded Maisha.

We are grateful for your compassion to care for children in need around the world. However, Maisha International orphanage is not an adoption agency. Maisha International has multiple programs to care for orphans and vulnerable children, but we do not process adoptions. The best way to reach out to orphans we care for is through Maisha Child Sponsorship program. Visit our child sponsorship page for more information.

Sponsoring a child for just $1 a day is a wonderful way to help change the life of a child in need and bring hope to his or her entire community. Being a sponsor will give you the chance to build a new relationship with one special child who will know you by name as you correspond and share your lives with each other.

If you would prefer to send your monthly sponsorship donation by mail, please mail a check or money order to:

Maisha international Orphanage
P.O.Box 570
Oklahoma City, Ok 73101

If you would prefer to use your debit or credit card, you can make a secure donation online at www.maishaorphanage.org/donate. You can also set up a direct payment withdrawal from your checking or savings account.

You can make 12 monthly contribution of $35 each or a one-time full-year sponsorship contribution of $420.  You are also welcomed to pay a few months at a time.

In any case the above, please make sure you identify the donation if for Child Sponsorship and please provide the name of the child you are sponsoring.  This will ensure the funds are properly designated and distributed.

Maisha international Orphanage is a project of Congressional District Program for Financial Accountability.  In fiscal year 2007, MIO spent 93% of donations on program and services and 7% on administration and fundraisings.  We are committed to keeping costs minimal in order to provide more orphans and destitute children in need.

When you make a gift, your contributions are pooled with that of other sponsors of children in the community where your child lives. Your child receives health care, education, nutritious food, and the entire community benefits from access to clean water, agricultural assistance, medical care, and more. The goal of Maisha International Inc. sponsorship is to equip your child and his or her community to step confidently into the future. That means your sponsorship may last for many years. When your child and his or her community reach this goal, Maisha International can move on to serve another community in need. When this happens, you’ll be given the opportunity to sponsor a different child in a new community.

If you would prefer to send your donation by mail, please mail your check or money order to:

Maisha International orphanage
P.O. Box 570
Oklahoma City, Ok 73101

You can also make a secure donation online at www.maishainterntaional.org/donate or over the phone at 1-800-518-0255.

Yes, you can designate your donation(s) to a specific program. Just make sure you attach a note with your donation identifying which program you are supporting so the funds will be properly credited, as you wish.

There are several ways you can help Maisha International orphanage to reach children and families in need:

     1. Make a donation immediately at www.maishainternational.org/donate or call 1-800-518-0255
     2. Host a fundraising project with your church, business, family or community
     3. Become Maisha International Advocate to bring awareness and education
     4. Become a Maisha Prayer Partner
     5. Host an informational party in your home

Maisha international has been leading  mission trips with churches, college students and individuals since 2006 to Kenya, East Africa. All 2009 trips are still open. If you are interested please fill out our online Mission trip application form to be considered for a future trip or join us in the upcoming one.

In order to keep administration costs low, Maisha international heavily depends on volunteers to assist us in the office. Maisha has multiple volunteer opportunities for individuals interested in volunteering for a minimum of three months, six months or one year. We would welcome qualified individuals to assist us with:

     - Fundraising Campaigns
     - Grant & Foundation Research & Writing
     - Film/Video Editing & Creation
     - Digital Photography Editing, Database, Etc.
     - Office Administration
     - Public Relations & Journalism
     - Data Research

If you are interested please fill out our online volunteer/intern application form to volunteer at Maisha International headquarters in Oklahoma City.

Thank you for inquiring about employment opportunities with Maisha International. In order to keep administration costs low, Maisha International Orphanage Headquarters is heavily staffed by volunteers. In fact, Maisha has no paid employees! If you would like to submit your resume for future consideration, we would welcome you to do so. You can email us at info@maishainternational.org

Thank you for inquiring about employment opportunities abroad with Maisha international orphanage. Maisha typically employs locals for all of our programs but we encourage volunteer from abroad to serve and train locals. If you would like to submit your resume for future consideration, we would welcome you to do so. You can e-mail us at info@maishainternational.org

Maisha International was founded as a Christian, based on these scriptures “To care for the needy, to clothe the naked, to feed the hungry and to welcome the strangers” Matthew 25-31.46. However, Maisha does not discriminate against any race, religion or ethnicity. Some of Maisha’s core beliefs are:

     - Share the gospel and use words when we have to
     - Work in a manner that earns the right to be heard
     - Go to the people in THEIR time of need
     - Personally oversee the distribution of aid, whenever possible
     - Live and work with an attitude that respects every person's dignity; we are all made in God's image
     - Work through establishing effective partnerships/teams with other like hearted groups both here and abroad; " together we can do so much more"

Maisha’s mission is twofold:
• To Inspire people to make a difference in the lives of orphaned and destitute children through financial generosity and volunteer commitment.
• Transform the lives of orphans and destitute children while changing the communities we operate in by providing tools and opportunities to succeed.

Our Vision is to see orphans and destitute Children in Africa succeed in life.

Kenya is in East Africa and its neighbors include Ethiopia, Sudan, Uganda and Tanzania. Nairobi is the capital and stands at an altitude of 1,700 meters (5,500 feet). Its population is about 34 million.

The languages spoken here are English, Kiswahili and about 40 indigenous languages. About 85% of the population is Christian. The remainder comprises of indigenous religions and Muslim. The currency is Kenyan shilling. For more information about Kenya, see Kenya Travel Ideas.

Kenya lies directly on the equator and elevations vary from sea level at the coast to 7,000+ ft. Generally, the days are warm and pleasant and the nights are cool. Summer clothes are worn throughout the year. In some areas, nights can be chilly. In the northern region, days are quite hot. The coast is hot and humid.

There are two rainy seasons; the long rains in April and May and the short rains in November and December. The hottest periods are from January to March and August to November. The coldest months are in July and the beginning of August. Average temperatures in Kenya range from 10 Celsius to 35 Celsius.

No immunizations are required by law to enter Kenya. If you are traveling from a country where yellow fever is present you will need to take a yellow fever vaccination. Several vaccinations are highly recommended, they include:
·  Yellow Fever
·  Typhoid
·  Hepatitis A & B
·  Polio
·  Diphtheria
·  Tetanus
·  Rabies
·  Meningitis
·  Cholera
·  Tuberculosis
Contact your doctor several weeks before you travel and seek advice regarding the vaccinations to take.

You will fly into Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO). You will be met on arrival flights gate terminal at Jomo Kenyatta and it is the largest airport in Kenya. The airport is 17 km (10.5 miles) to the city centre. If you want some cash upon arrival, banking services, automatic teller machines (ATMs) and 24 hr foreign exchange (forex) bureaus are available at the airport.

Mombassa International Airport in Mombassa is the second largest international airport in Kenya. You will not need to fly there unless you are volunteering in Mombassa.

The schools in Kenya operate on a trimester basis. Classes start in January to March with April being a school holiday month. Schools open again in May to July with August off and then September to November. December is a school holiday month. Volunteers who are in Kenya during the school holidays can attend to other projects such as the orphanage, medical or Maasai volunteer program.

Make sure your doctor knows you are traveling to Kenya (don't just say Africa) so she can prescribe the right anti-malaria medication. Malaria prevention medication should be taken according to your doctor’s instructions before, during and after a visit to affected areas.  Malaria is a serious tropical disease, which is spread by night-biting mosquitoes which transmit a parasite. Avoiding getting bitten is important and usually the most effective means to prevent the disease.

Long sleeved shirts and trousers should be worn in the evenings and insect repellent can be used in areas with mosquitoes. If the area you are volunteering has mosquitoes, use a mosquito net at night. The most effective are those treated with an insect repellent.

It is important to treat malaria as soon as the symptoms arise. Its symptoms include chills, fevers, headache, nausea and vomiting. If you suspect you have malaria, see a doctor as soon as possible even if you have the treatment for malaria with you so that a correct diagnosis can be made.

Foods served during your volunteer period include traditional Kenya foods like ugali and sukuma wiki (corn meal and greens), githeri (maize and beans), irio as well as chapatis. Kenyan meals also consist of other universal dishes such as beef, fish, rice and pasta. French fries, burgers, sandwiches etc are available in restaurants and hotels. Breakfast usually consists of bread, eggs and at times bacon, sausage, and baked beans. Fruits and vegetables are plenty in Kenya and feature frequently in menu preparations. Kenyan-grown coffee and tea are common beverages. Dessert is generally not served in homes.

It is generally recommended that you drink bottled water during your volunteer stay in Kenya both in Nairobi and whilst upcountry or on a safari. You can buy bottled water from any supermarket and most shops in Kenya. The most common water-borne diseases in Kenya are typhoid, cholera and dysentery. Other less common ones include gastroenteritis and amoebiasis.

Kenya is one of the safest countries in Africa. We ensure you are placed in safe environment and you will be very well looked after while volunteering in Kenya. The Kenyan people are very warm and friendly towards foreigners. However, it is essential to take simple precautions and other volunteer abroad safety tips. Do not carry your valuables around. Take a copy of your passport and visas to carry with you. Leave your passport, credit cards, debit cards and other valuables such as cameras and laptops at home.

Nairobi is a major metropolitan area and the largest city in Kenya. Like any big city, it has criminal elements. Common criminal incidents involve snatching of purses, watches and jewelry. It is safe to shop in most sections of the city. We shall recommend and guide you regarding appropriate areas to shop and visit during your volunteer orientation and training. While out, do not wear any expensive clothing and jewelry; leave all your jewelry at home. Avoid dark alleys and take a taxi at night.

There is poverty in Kenya. You are likely to be viewed as very rich. You will probably attract souvenir hawkers as well as street children and beggars in smaller towns. Be sure to take some precautions such as:
·  Leave your passport, credit cards and debit cards in the room provided by your home stay host. Only carry a copy of your passport and little cash when going about your duties.
·  Do not walk on your own at night in the major cities.
·  Do not wear jewelry.
·  Do not carry a lot of camera equipment.
·  Wear a money belt hat fits under your clothes.
·  Always avoid alleys/back streets.
·  Avoid using your ipod except in your room, at the restaurants or at the project during your break. An ipod in the streets may attract undue attention. You need to be aware of your surroundings at all times when walking, using public transport etc.
·  Avoid talking and walking with strangers.
More safety issues will be discussed at your orientation.

Bring along some comfortable, casual and semi-casual clothing: sweat shirts, shorts, jeans, skirts and any other clothing that you would ordinarily wear. Include warm clothing for nights, especially if you volunteer in July and August. Avoid flashy items.

When out in the community, it is good to follow local etiquette. Female volunteers need to wear pants and/or long skirts. Dressing in Nairobi is quite liberal. However, approach it with cultural sensitivity in mind and you will be fine. Please ask when you are not sure what is and is not appropriate.

Footwear can be hiking boots, old sports shoes or open-toed sandals.

Volunteers need to bring their own towels, face towels and other personal effects. Volunteers are responsible for their own laundry.
It is safe to bring your laptop, cameras, video cameras, hair dryers, shavers and other electrical products.
Other suggested items:
· Malaria tablets; consult your doctor for suggestions
· Adapter plugs and converters for electrical appliances
· Good walking shoes (running/tennis shoes are fine) and sandals
· Moisturizing cream and suntan lotion
· Insect repellent (e.g. Tabard, Rid, Jungle Juice, OFF, etc.)
· Basic medical kit (e.g. aspirins, plasters, Imodium, antiseptic cream, and anti itchy cream, etc.)
· Remember your visas, tickets, passports, money, etc.

Before traveling to Kenya, you need to know the type of electric plug and socket in your destination and also the voltage of the electric power, the frequency and any special requirements like fuses or earth connections that may interfere with the use of your equipment.

The electricity supply in Kenya is 220/240 volts/50 Hz (240V 50 Hz D & G). The electric sockets are three-pin square (British-type).

Remember that simple adapters do not convert voltage or frequency. Incorrect use may keep you from using your equipment, damage it and even cause personal injuries. Using a plug adapter just changes the shape of the prongs. Countries with different voltages and frequencies may use similar plugs. Check to need if you need a power converter and not simply a plug adapter.

Most visitors to Kenya need to obtain a visa including Europeans, Americans and nationals from Commonwealth countries such as New Zealand, Canada Australia, and the UK. Volunteers need to obtain a tourist visa to enter Kenya. Visas are valid for three months from the date of entry and can be purchased upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi.

You can also get a visa before you travel from Kenyan diplomatic missions overseas. You should apply well in advance, especially if you are doing it by mail. www.kenyaembassy.org

A single-entry Kenya visa costs USD50 and a multiple entry visa USD100. Tourist visas can be extended for a further three month period.

If you are planning on visiting just Kenya, a single-entry visa is all you need. If your travel plans include visiting Uganda or Tanzania to climb Mount Kilimanjaro or visit the Serengeti, then you will need a multiple-entry visa if you wish to re-enter Kenya again.

The currency in Kenya is the Kenyan Shilling. The shilling comprises 100 cents. Coins are in denominations of 50c, 1, 5, 10, 20 and 40 shillings. Bank notes are in denominations of 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1,000 shillings.

Importation of foreign currency is unlimited and does not have to be declared on arrival.

The value of the shilling fluctuates. Check the value of the shilling with a currency converter just before you go. Do not change too much money at one time and use the banks not the money changers.

Major credit cards such as MasterCard and Visa are accepted. American Express, Discover, Solo, Switch and Diners Club are often not accepted. ATMs will mostly accept MasterCard, Visa and Visa Electron cards. Major credit cards are accepted at supermarkets and expensive restaurants and hotels. However, it is advisable to carry some cash.