Who runs the Children's Village when Sam is not there?
One reason why the project is loved and supported by the government in South Sudan is because it is run by Sudanese people. We structured the Children’s Village this way because, as Sam says, “unless the Sudanese run their own project, what long-term good are we doing?” The staff consists of 45 people Including the general manager, security staff, care takers, laborers, cooks, medical clinician, and teachers.

How often is Sam on the ground in Africa?
The Children’s Village project is a year round, full time job for Sam and his US based staff. He spends three to four months of the year raising money and dealing with the business aspect of the project. The rest of the year he is in Sudan and Uganda working with our children.

Is there a succession plan for leadership?
While Sam has been the exclusive leader of all child rescue missions there have been several key leaders who share responsibility for the operation to run smoothly. Lynn Childers, Sam’s wife, Paige Childers, his daughter, and Michael Bishop are the US based team who run various aspects of the operation. Michael visits Sudan frequently and would jointly assume operation with Lynn and Paige Childers if Sam was unable to do so.
It is also important to understand that Joseph Schillingi has been the General Manager at the Children's Village for years. He and his family are committed to the future of these children and the mission of the Children's Village.

What is the formula for restoring the children post-trauma?
Over the years, the leadership team has consulted with psychologists who specialize in helping children who have experienced severe trauma.
While a variety of approaches have been recommended, the dangers of war and fluctuating financial resources have limited the level of counseling we have been able to provide for the children on a consistent basis.
In December 2006 we built the first playground in South Sudan. Prior to the playground our children frequently cried through the night and experienced extreme nightmares. After the playground they experienced a marked decrease in nightmares and slept through the night more consistently. Helping them to be children again is a theme that we continue to build upon.
We are currently building a library for the older children. The library will be used for both learning and entertainment, hosting many forms of literature and videos. We expect this to be another method of helping our older children regain elements of their childhood.
Pending further financial resources, we look forward to providing full time, on-site counseling.

Is Children’s Village a registered 501(c)3?
Yes, our project is a 501(c)3 organization that has been in existence for many years. All donations are therefore tax deductible. It is noteworthy that we have received frequent donations through large organizations that perform rigorous due diligence before releasing funds, namely the California Community Foundation.

How can you help?
Your donations to Angels of East Africa will enable us to maintain and grow the orphanage. Right now there are several upcoming projects that need immediate financial attention including a growing library and the next child rescue mission.

See the “Become a Guardian Angel” link above for details about donating financially or otherwise.