About Us
FOUNDER : RICHARD SPEAR
Having traveled extensively in South America, I found myself particularly fascinated by
Colombia and equally horrified by the effects the illegal drug culture was having on cities like Cali, which was and continues to cause terrible violence and poverty in many of the communities. When I learned in 2001 of Sister Elsa Marie and her brave efforts to form an orphanage I decided to try to help, and formed The Cali Orphanage Charitable Fund, a 501(c)(3) classified status fund. (Thank you Duquesne Law Department). Through my profession as baseball coach and intramural sports director at Duquesne University. I was able to start my fundraising efforts and through the generosity of many of my personal and professional connections I have in the Greater Pittsburgh area coupled with exposure from local news media outlets funds began to come in and we could help Sister Elsa Maria realize her vision.
EDUCATION
Education is a key factor in helping the children realize their goals and build a better life for the future. Both Sister Elsa Maria and Sadrack Francois work tirelessly to make sure that each child is educated and excel at learning. Several children have gone on to graduate from universities with the support provided through the fund, and have returned back to assist the younger children achieve their goals.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
The volunteer teams at both the Cali and Port au Prince orphanages work tirelessly to build supportive partnerships of local businesses, hospitals, and schools to support the needs of the children. Developing a supportive home life and well-rounded education are goals of each orphanage, as they seek to develop each child’s unique attributes enabling them to sustain themselves in the future. Your support
helps to achieve these goals.
