Haven of Hope International Orphan Care Training Institute (OCTI) had the distinct honor of leading a groundbreaking training for nearly 80 directors and leaders of orphan care agencies from across Bolivia. The event, held in Santa Cruz at the request of the Bolivian Office of Children and Families, brought together leaders who collectively represent thousands of vulnerable children.
A Nation in Need of Solutions
Bolivia faces staggering realities when it comes to orphan care: over 30,000 children currently live in formal institutions, with many more in informal care situations. These numbers highlight the urgent need for sustainable strategies to ensure that children not only survive but thrive. Especially, when the government is not able to provide consistent support.
Equipping Leaders with Tools for Impact
Alice Sweet, Founder of Haven of Hope International, led the training with a focus on fundraising strategies that can transform the future of orphan care in Bolivia. Her sessions explored:
- Child Sponsorship Programs that create lasting donor-child connections
- Corporate Sponsorships to engage the business sector
- Faith-Based Engagement for mobilizing churches and communities
- Online Giving Tools that expand global reach
- Volunteer Involvement to strengthen local participation
Alice also emphasized the importance of building donor databases, sharing success stories, investing in staff training, and pursuing grant opportunities—all critical components for long-term sustainability.
Practical Guidance for Donor Engagement
Following Alice’s presentation, Marco Aldana, OCTI Director Training Specialist, provided practical training on planning and presenting projects to donors. His session offered leaders concrete steps for structuring proposals, building confidence in communication, and demonstrating measurable outcomes to potential supporters.
A Spirit of Celebration and Encouragement
This first-of-its-kind training was enthusiastically received by agency leaders, many of whom expressed renewed hope and motivation for the future. Adding a special touch, through the generosity of a donor, financial gifts were presented to leaders in several categories:
- The youngest leader (just 21 years old)
- The oldest leader (61 years old)
- The leader with the longest tenure of service (42 years)
These moments celebrated the dedication and diversity of leadership within Bolivia’s orphan care community.
Paving the Way Forward
This event marked more than just a training—it was a turning point. For the first time, leaders from across Bolivia gathered to learn, collaborate, and commit to new strategies that can change the trajectory of children’s lives. Haven of Hope International remains committed to walking alongside these leaders as they implement the tools and vision shared.
Together, we are building a nation of hope for the children of Bolivia.