ReThink Orphanages is a global cross-sector coalition working to prevent family separation and child institutionalization by shifting the way volunteers and donors support vulnerable children overseas.
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.
Through our country hubs and members, we work with governments, schools, universities, churches, volunteer-sending organisations and tourism companies to promote ethical volunteering and a better way to care for children.
There is a better way to care for children
