ReThink Orphanages is a cross sectoral global coalition. It works with key stakeholders in countries in the global north to shift their support (funding, mission, volunteering and tourism) away from orphanages towards strengthening families in the global south.
Decades of research show that growing up, separated from family, in a residential care institution, such as an orphanage, is harmful to a child's development and well-being. This has led to a global effort to shift away from institutional care towards family-based care.
But well-meaning support for orphanages – through donations, volunteering, tourist trips and faith-based mission work – is weakening this effort and perpetuating the cycle of family separation and institutionalisation.
ReThink Orphanages advocates for donors and volunteers to redirect their support from funding and volunteering in orphanages, to supporting organisations that help children stay with their families or grow up in family-based care.
Where they operate
Contact this organization about:
Organization Type
Main Areas of Work
What They Do
ReThink Orphanages Network provides advice and information to government, business, donors, and non-profits on policy, child focused giving, transitioning from residential to community based care, responsible tourism, child rights focused business models, and technical advice.