Our Leaders

Mike Hammer

First of all, I had 3 credits left for my college degree. In order to complete these last few credits my major advisor, Dr. Hull asked me to do a research project while I was in Kenya. My assignment was to do research on Child Welfare in Sub Saharan Africa, then write a paper and present my findings to his classes the following semester. This forced me to expose myself to many different schools and orphanages. One of which was the Gates of Hope.

The second contributing factor was the fact that the original orphanage I went to work for was very well staffed and funded. They had an abundance of volunteers and money. This encouraged me to find an orphanage that really needed some help.

The third factor was simply Mary and the children. Mary has done an exceptional job of allowing each child to feel as though they are a part of a family. She is committed to preparing them all for adulthood and becoming responsible citizens. My first intention with the Gates of Hope family was to organize a one time work day and present them with a project that I hoped would bring them some income. Now six years later, I find myself as excited as ever for each new project that we start. (by the way they are still raising chickens which was the first project).

Over the years my wife, Stephanie and I have been able to partner with the Gates of Hope on many different projects. And I can assure you we have been far more blessed in working with Mary and the Gates of Hope then we could have ever dreamed.

as I am sure you can imagine there are constant needs when dealing with 30 children. Several of the immediate needs are listed under the tab partners on the home page, they include a new home, a reliable vehicle, school fees and of course food.

I look forward to seeing what will happen in the years to come in these children's lives as wonderful people such as yourself become involved with them.

Thank you for taking the time to visit our website and please let me know when you are ready for a trip to Kenya!!!

Sincerely, Mike Hammer