How would I go about opening an orphanage by the time I turn 18?
Background info: I was adopted when I was 5 (Now I am 15). I always knew my purpose in life was to help I just never knew how. As I was praying for God to reveal to me his purpose for my life over the next few months the only thought in my mind was helping children/ teens who don't have homes or who are all alone and going through so many things. I really want to do this but the Lord says faith without works is dead so I want to move in whatever way I can to set the vision and complete it any information is very helpful
Thank You
4 answers
Michelle’s Answer
I am happy to know that there is an interest in serving children this way as I had this same exact inquiry here a while back but would be happy to give you the advice as well.
The contemporary version of an Orphanage is now termed as a Group Home or Transitional Housing Program at which the clients receive services for permanent housing. That usually consists of Section 8 or a voucher program. There are no more orphanages these days. Also, keep in mind that most of the clients for this today are not orphans, they are just people whose parents couldn't take care of them. So when the government took over the foster care system, orphanages seemed to transition into being group homes and transitional housing as well as other programs. The children that would have gone to orphanages yesteryear now go to a foster care system that is run by local Departments of Social Services or Child Protective Services Agencies. So the process and services have changed.
My advice, after being a one time private social service case manager for 27 years, would be that if you really want to do this, go to college and get a degree in Early Childhood Development or Psychology. You will be serving clients that are about 18 years old or a little older. A background in a behavioral science will give you a good knowledge foundation. You can consider minoring in business management. Pick a college that has special courses for Non-Profit Management and Administration. Much importance will be to get a strong background in Grant Writing, as well.
After you graduate, you have two options. You can work for the child welfare department at a town or city Dept. of Social Services or you can start a Group Home. The latter will be very expensive because you literally have to buy a house first. If you want to start a transitional housing program instead -you'll have to buy a house or a commercial building and refurbish it to suit rooms and offices and all the regulations of your town or city. Have you visited a transitional housing or group home ? I would suggest that you do a search for some in your town and take a tour to see what the physicality looks like and you can ask any questions to the program director there.
I kind of wanted to throw this story in. When I was about 4 or 5 years old, my mother oversaw a puppet show at my sister's school and they performed at an orphanage, yes a real one, about in the mid 1960's. It was huge and the grounds were beautiful and when I think back on that memory, it would cost probably billions today to duplicate what that was. Remember, there is staff and utilities to pay, food service, maintenance, clothing and hygiene for the children. It's just not doable today, really. I had a good old time running around and playing with the children there and it always served to be a good memory for me.
Another thing for you to consider is to start a program for this population (foster system aged out teens). All you would need to do this would be to buy a building for offices and funding through grants and donations. You'd learn how to do this through your college experience. So, you would be the Executive Director and you'd need to hire case managers and can use volunteers and college interns. This is very doable if you take it step by step and learn the business end of the non-profit sector.
This type of service is very much needed for a population that is quite underserved. It is so awesome that you want to be involved in this type of work. I hope this is helpful for a start and I wish you all the best moving forward with plans. You will make a huge difference in people's lives if you pursue this career !
Fred’s Answer
Then you need funding. Unless you are extremely wealthy, you have to figure out how you will pay for everything. Food, equipment, rent, disposables, gas, electricity, water...
And i have no idea how you'd even acquire children to care for. Seems like it would be hard to just hang up a sign saying "Babies wanted".
It is a noble idea, and i don't mean to discourage you, but you also need to be realistic, and see the obstacles ahead of you. If you are 15, you are probably in high school. You most likely have a career counselor who can help you as well. They may have better ideas for a college or trade school that would help. Maybe you could start by volunteering or working at an orphanage/children's home near you.
Vickie’s Answer
Theophilus’s Answer
Here are some steps to consider:
1. Develop a Clear Vision: Outline your goals and the specific needs you want to address within the community. Think about the age group of people you want to help and the type of support they need.
2. Build a Support Network: Surround yourself with people who share your passion for helping others. Look for individuals who are willing to sacrifice their time and resources to support your mission. Having a team with a genuine interest in making a difference is crucial.
3. Research and Plan: Conduct research on existing orphanages and their operations. Understand the legal requirements for starting an orphanage in your area. Create a detailed plan that covers funding, location, staffing, and programs you want to offer.
4. Start Small: You don’t have to open a full-fledged orphanage right away. Consider starting with smaller initiatives, such as providing meals, educational support, or mentorship to local children in need. This can help you gain experience and build credibility in the community.
5. Fundraising: Look for ways to raise funds, whether through donations, grants, or partnerships with local businesses. Social media can also be a powerful tool for creating awareness and gathering support.
6. Stay Committed: Running an orphanage requires dedication and resilience. Be prepared for challenges, and always keep your focus on the people you aim to help.
Remember, it’s about making a difference in the lives of others, no matter how small the steps may seem at first. Surround yourself with passionate individuals, stay committed to your vision, and you’ll be well on your way to creating a meaningful impact. I am proud of you!