How a gift in a Will extends a lifetime of kindness

Picture of Doug with his sponsored child

Our former Board Chair shares how he and his wife would like to leave a legacy of hope

Doug Ellenor sponsored his first child in the ’80s. He and his wife, Jo-Anne, were living in Borneo for work. They were surrounded by poverty every day.

They had to do something. And they knew Christian Children’s Fund of Canada (now Children Believe) was the way to do it.

As Past Chair of our Board of Directors, Doug has seen his gifts — and those of like-minded people — in action. He’s seen the power of clean water and toilets that flush for families in Nicaragua. He’s seen a small orchard and a few beehives lift up a community in Ethiopia.

 “I’ve realized that when I sponsor a child, I’m helping that child’s extended family, too,” he says.

That’s why it’s so easy for Doug and Jo-Anne to remember Children Believe in their Wills. They have everything they need, their family is doing well and sharing seems like the right thing to do.

They know even when they’re gone, there will be children who will need clean water, an education and a safe place to grow up. The need won’t end — neither will Doug and Jo-Anne’s generosity.

 “I have trust and faith that when I’m gone, Children Believe will use my gift to implement positive change — one person at a time, one community at a time,” Doug says. “They’ll continue to create safe places for children to grow and to give families access to healthcare, clean water, training and education.”

Learn more today about how you can help — just like Doug and Jo-Anne.

About Children Believe

Children Believe works globally to empower children to dream fearlessly, stand up for what they believe in — and be heard. For 60+ years, we’ve brought together brave young dreamers, caring supporters and partners, and unabashed idealists. Together, we’re driven by a common belief: creating access to education — inside and outside of classrooms — is the most powerful tool children can use to change their world.

Inspiring Stories

August 2020

Providing opportunity for youth to keep them safe ...

Children Believe's "My nation is my heart" campaign aims to prevent irregular migration in Central America and Mexico by empowering youth with opportunities and support.

October 2021

How can the world move toward equality for women a...

Unlocking gender equality fosters progress, security, and economic growth. Global Goals' video outlines key steps including empowerment, education, and legal equality. Join the advocacy for change.

December 2021

Meet a vulnerable teen who’s winning respect in he...

Sadhana, a 15-year-old Dalit girl, defies odds in her Indian village, leading child rights advocacy and sparking impactful community changes.