Since Rafiki Mwema began back in 2012 everyone involved in the fundraising side has done so on a 100% voluntary basis.  In addition to this, our CEO’s personal business funded the running costs and other expenses. This spirit of generosity allowed 100% of funds raised to go straight into the on-the-ground operations in Kenya, directly benefitting the children in our care. This model has become unsustainable, as we have an increasing amount of costs to pay, such as bank fees, printing, postage, office expenses – all of the usual expenses associated with running an enterprise like Rafiki Mwema. To cover these costs, we’re selling a small range of branded merchandise. Income from the sale of this merchandise supports the business-end of our charity, leaving 100% of all donations, auctions and event income going straight from you to our children. Not 55%, not 90% - 100% of your contributions go directly to them, all the time. This is a result of the dedication of our team. Our founder earns nothing from Rafiki Mwema, not a penny, not ever. Her passion for the children in our care means she makes multiple trips to Kenya to deliver training, supervision and therapeutic support, as well as the daily contact needed to maintain and grow our support services – and she does it because it’s important to her. Our CEO works around 80 hours each week, and only recently have we started to compensate her, and even then, it’s below minimum wage for a standard working week. The value of their commitment and contribution of time and effort can’t be overstated, and like the rest of our volunteers, they do it to help make a difference.