How a gift in a Will extends a lifetime of kindness

Picture of Doug with his sponsored child

Our former Board Chair shares how he and his wife would like to leave a legacy of hope

Doug Ellenor sponsored his first child in the ’80s. He and his wife, Jo-Anne, were living in Borneo for work. They were surrounded by poverty every day.

They had to do something. And they knew Christian Children’s Fund of Canada (now Children Believe) was the way to do it.

As Past Chair of our Board of Directors, Doug has seen his gifts — and those of like-minded people — in action. He’s seen the power of clean water and toilets that flush for families in Nicaragua. He’s seen a small orchard and a few beehives lift up a community in Ethiopia.

 “I’ve realized that when I sponsor a child, I’m helping that child’s extended family, too,” he says.

That’s why it’s so easy for Doug and Jo-Anne to remember Children Believe in their Wills. They have everything they need, their family is doing well and sharing seems like the right thing to do.

They know even when they’re gone, there will be children who will need clean water, an education and a safe place to grow up. The need won’t end — neither will Doug and Jo-Anne’s generosity.

 “I have trust and faith that when I’m gone, Children Believe will use my gift to implement positive change — one person at a time, one community at a time,” Doug says. “They’ll continue to create safe places for children to grow and to give families access to healthcare, clean water, training and education.”

Learn more today about how you can help — just like Doug and Jo-Anne.

About Children Believe

Children Believe works globally to empower children to dream fearlessly, stand up for what they believe in — and be heard. For 60+ years, we’ve brought together brave young dreamers, caring supporters and partners, and unabashed idealists. Together, we’re driven by a common belief: creating access to education — inside and outside of classrooms — is the most powerful tool children can use to change their world.

About Inspiring Stories

December 2025

5 Meaningful Ways to Give Back This Holiday Season...

This holiday season, go beyond gifts and discover five impactful ways to give back—locally and globally—to create real, lasting change.

December 2025

5 Ways Canadians Can Help Ensure Hunger Doesn't Ho...

Learn five practical ways Canadians can help ensure hunger doesn’t hold children back, from supporting local food banks to advocating for school nutrition programs and global solutions!

December 2025

How much does it cost to change someone’s life?

Looking for a meaningful holiday gift? Discover how a small donation can change a child’s life through education, opportunity, and hope that lasts beyond the season.