Friends of Ngong Road

We empower Nairobi children living in poverty to transform their lives through education and support, leading to employment.

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One of Minnesota’s Largest Foundations Supports Friends of Ngong Road with a $200,000 grant

OCTOBER 20, 2025

Friends of Ngong Road (FoNR) is honored to announce a $200,000 grant from Margaret A. Cargill Philanthropies (MACP) in support of organizational capacity building. This generous support marks a meaningful milestone in our nearly twenty-year journey to empower children in Nairobi’s informal settlements through education, support, and opportunity.

MACP, one of the nation’s largest private philanthropies, is guided by a clear vision: to make a meaningful difference in the world through support for work in communities, the environment, arts and culture, disaster relief, and quality of life. Their support of Friends of Ngong Road affirms both the importance of our mission and the promise of our next chapter of growth.

For Friends, capacity building means strengthening the systems, infrastructure, and leadership that make our student-centered model sustainable. It’s the kind of support that helps us develop momentum while we build—ensuring that as we expand access to education, healthcare, and employment pathways, we do so with stability and sustainability.

This is the first time Friends of Ngong Road has received funding from a major institutional foundation, and it signals growing recognition of our proven results. Since 2006, Friends has served hundreds of students, and nearly three-quarters of our alumni are now employed. That track record—and the resilience of our students and staff—has created both measurable outcomes and deep, community-based change.

We are deeply grateful to Margaret A. Cargill Philanthropies for believing in our mission and helping to strengthen its foundation. Their partnership represents not only a financial commitment but a powerful vote of confidence in what Friends of Ngong Road stands for: that every child, no matter where they begin, deserves the chance to learn, grow, and thrive.

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A sponsor’s recent trip to Nairobi

A unique element of our program is that it allows for sponsors to have a one on one relationship with their student, often sparking a special bond between them. This bond grows even stronger when sponsors have the opportunity to meet their students. We always encourage sponsors to take this life changing trip to meet their sponsored student and get a glimpse of how they are helping their student transform their life. One sponsor, Brittany, and her daughter Amina took a trip to meet their sponsored student Crystal.  

Their experience:

sponsor a student in Kenya

Our recent trip to Kenya was a truly unforgettable experience, thanks in large part to our visit with Crystal. Meeting her and her family was heartwarming; they welcomed us with such kindness and generosity. We had the pleasure of visiting Crystal at St. George’s Primary School, where she excels in her studies. Seeing her enthusiasm and dedication firsthand was incredibly rewarding.

Our time in Kenya was filled with memorable moments. We enjoyed feeding giraffes at the Giraffe Centre, an experience both fun and educational. At Stedmark Garden, we explored a variety of animals from Kenya and beyond, which was both fascinating and enlightening. 

One of the highlights was attending the Saturday program with Ngong Road students, where we shared a meal and participated in activities together. This trip not only deepened our appreciation for the impact of sponsorship but also enriched our lives with the warmth and spirit of Kenya. We are grateful for the opportunity to support Crystal and look forward to more experiences like this in the future.

Brittany and Amina

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Mildred, An Aspiring Pediatrician

My name is Mildred. I am 15 years old, and my hobby is drawing because it’s an escape from reality, where imagination comes to life. It’s a way to express emotions, pay attention to detail, and find solace in solitude. My favorite sports are volleyball and football.

aspiring pediatrician

I am in Form 1 studying at Kijabe Girls High School. I am currently the class monitor and my work is to maintain order, communicate with teachers, and represent the class. My favorite subjects are Chemistry, Biology, and Physics. because they are fascinated by the natural world and how it works. Exploring biology, chemistry, and physics can provide a deep understanding of the universe, from the smallest cells to the vast cosmos.

I aspire to be a pediatrician because, ever since I was little, I’ve been fascinated by doctors and how they help people get better. I especially love seeing kids smile and feel better after a visit to the doctor. I want to be a pediatrician to help kids grow healthy and happy, just like my role model, Dr. Benjamin Spock. I’ll be able to teach their parents how to keep them safe and healthy,

aspiring pediatrician

I’ve always dreamed of visiting Thailand. The country’s rich culture, stunning beaches, and delicious cuisine have captivated me for years. I’m particularly drawn to the ancient temples and historical sites, which offer a glimpse into Thailand’s fascinating past.

By supporting Ngong Road Children’s Foundation, you’re not just helping an individual; you’re investing in a future leader who will make a positive impact on the world.
Join us in transforming lives.

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Our students need school supplies!

Please donate today. We have raised $11,000, and have a long way to go to reach our $50,000 goal. Our students started a new school year, and need school supplies. 

Boarding school is the norm for secondary students and some primary students in Kenya. We have over 100 students in our program who attend boarding school. 

These students are allowed a trunk with all of their personal belongings and school supplies. They need their trunks filled three times a year with basic items not covered through sponsorships such as:

  • Towels and bedding
  • Feminine hygiene products
  • Washtub and laundry soap
  • Complete toiletries, including shampoo, soap, and toothpaste.
  • Toilet paper
  • Pencils, pens, etc.

Helping our students fill their trunks is a tangible way to show support. Your donation helps our students have the tools they need to succeed and the confidence that comes from having the same supplies as their peers.

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