Twenty-Five Years of Hope: Celebrating Buckner Kenya

When Cynthia Barasa lost both of her parents, her world grew painfully small. As the youngest of six children, she watched opportunities slip away one by one. School became impossible when the family could no longer afford the fees, and like her siblings before her, Cynthia was forced out of the classroom. After moving in with an uncle for safety and support, her sense of grief and isolation deepened. The future felt uncertain, and hope felt distant.

Everything changed when Cynthia connected with Buckner Family Hope Center® in Bungoma, Kenya.

Through Buckner programs, Cynthia received shoes, care and the chance to return to school. More importantly, she received encouragement and belonging. Over time, the timid, grieving child began to reemerge as a confident, joyful young leader — one who could imagine a different future for herself.

Cynthia’s story is one of many that reflect the transformational work of Buckner Kenya.

Celebrating 25 years

This year marks the 25th anniversary of Buckner Kenya walking alongside vulnerable children and families across the country.

Over those 25 years, countless children like Cynthia and families facing overwhelming odds have rewritten the trajectory of their lives. Their journeys are different. Their challenges are unique. But what they share is Buckner Kenya, a steady presence offering hope, dignity and opportunity.

“Buckner Kenya is the living expression of what our founder started more than a century ago — faith put into action on behalf of children and families,” said Dr. Albert L. Reyes, CEO of Buckner International. “Twenty-five years in, this ministry continues to honor that legacy by strengthening families and transforming generations.”

Buckner services for vulnerable children and families are established in Nairobi, Bungoma, Cherangani, Kitale and Busia through Buckner Family Hope Centers that are augmented by schools and clinics to offer holistic, community-centered support.

It took many dedicated and faithful hands to get the ministry started in Kenya. As the International Mission Board (IMB) of the Southern Baptist Convention shifted its focus toward church planting and away from ministries such as the Baptist Children’s Centre (BCC) in Nairobi, IMB missionaries sought a partner to continue that vital work. They reached out to Buckner International, opening the door for what would become Buckner Kenya.

From the very start, generosity made the mission possible. Park Cities Baptist Church in Dallas, Texas, provided critical early financial support to help resume BCC operations, alongside many other faithful partners and donors who helped launch and sustain the ministry.

Supporting families in Kenya

Buckner International began its work in Kenya in 2001, focusing on family preservation and long-term stability. Today, Buckner Kenya provides in-country foster care, in-country adoption services, and child-centered, family-focused support through its five Buckner Family Hope Center locations.

Programs include schools, early childhood development centers, medical clinics, water wells and spiritual development initiatives. In 2024, Buckner Kenya expanded its educational offerings with the addition of ninth grade, creating new pathways for students to continue their learning close to home.

Beyond the classroom, Buckner Kenya invests in business education, vocational training, extracurricular activities and talent development programs that help children and families gain skills and confidence that support lifelong success.

“Education is the key to creating a healthy and strong future for children and families,” said Dickson Masindano, executive director of Buckner Kenya. “The most significant difference we make is ensuring children have access to affordable, quality education through our Family Hope Center schools. When children complete their education, they have the opportunity to secure jobs that change their own lives and positively impact their communities.

“We believe education is an equalizer in life,” he added. “Empowering vulnerable children and families through education is a lifetime investment. It creates meaningful, lasting change and raises standards of living while promoting healthier lifestyles.”

Celebrating 25 years of impact

In February, Buckner Kenya staff, families and community leaders were joined by Buckner International leadership, staff members and the Board of Trustees at the ministry’s 25th anniversary celebration.

The day began with the planting of trees, symbolizing growth, resilience and the hopeful future being cultivated for children and families across Kenya. Those participating in the tree planting represented Buckner’s past, present and future, including the chairs of the Buckner Kenya and Buckner International Boards of Trustees, the CEO of the Public Benefit Organizations Regulatory Authority, leaders from the Baptist Convention of Kenya and other distinguished guests.

Prayer, hymns and heartfelt tributes followed, honoring those who have led the ministry and those whose lives have been transformed through its work. Rev. Bernard Obuya, president of the Baptist Convention of Kenya, delivered a powerful devotional message calling attention to faith, service and community.

The celebration was filled with life and joy, including children’s dance groups, a praise band, remarks from Buckner Kenya board members and Kenyan government officials. Shem Nyakutu, secretary for children’s services of Kenya, represented the Kenyan president’s office, underscoring the importance of protecting and investing in children.

Impact during the years

Over 25 years, Buckner Kenya has evolved from a single center into a multifaceted ministry reaching communities across the country, with a deeper emphasis on strengthening families and creating lasting solutions for vulnerable children. A shift toward family-based care, combined with expanded education, health and economic programs, has helped move families from crisis to stability and self-sufficiency. Many children once facing abandonment or hardship are now thriving as students, professionals and parents.

“The smiles and laughter I witness in the families we serve every day is enough for me,” Masindano said. “Over the years, I’ve seen total transformation – children and families move from hardship to new opportunities. Somebody somewhere found hope and a reason to be grateful.”

Global but local

Although Kenya is an ocean away from Buckner International’s humble beginnings in Dallas, Texas, the mission that guides the work remains the same.

R.C. Buckner cast the vision for this ministry in 1877, but it was built through collaboration and shared commitment. Surrounded by like-minded Christian leaders, Buckner worked alongside 15 appointed deacons from across Texas who helped raise support, gather donations and spread the mission through local churches. Each congregation played a role, proving from the beginning that lasting impact comes when people unite around a shared calling.

That same philosophy shapes Buckner’s international work today, said Dr. Reyes.

“We have developed our international ministries around a philosophical and missiological foundation that drives us to be locally relevant wherever we serve,” said Dr. Reyes. “While we have a global vision, we never look past the local community. That’s why we hire and develop local staff to lead the work and support them through partnerships and mission teams from the U.S. — a truly ‘glocal’ approach.”

Looking forward with hope

For Cynthia Barasa, a simple act of support — a new pair of shoes and an invitation to a Buckner Family Hope Center — opened the door to transformation. Her confidence grew, her academic performance improved and her joy became evident. She loves playing football and volleyball and thrives in a group with other children.

Cynthia’s teachers and caregivers say her true personality emerged. Once shy and hesitant, she is outgoing and expressive with natural leadership skills. She enjoys dancing, organizing activities and is interested in serving on student council. Cynthia dreams of attending university and becoming a lawyer — goals that once felt impossible.

Her story is a powerful reminder that when hope is restored, dreams take root. Just like Cynthia, there are many children and families across Kenya who need the same support, opportunity and belief in their potential. For 25 years, Buckner Kenya has stood with them, rewriting stories, strengthening families and building a future filled with hope.