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

April 2026

Rising for Change: Sathana’s Journey to Climate Ju...

On Earth Day, discover Sathana’s journey from rural Tamil Nadu to becoming a global youth climate leader. Learn how girls’ education and leadership are driving climate justice and community change.

April 2026

Insider Story: When being counted changes everythi...

See how gaining basic documentation helped families in Allipalem access housing, education, and healthcare—proving that being counted can change everything.

April 2026

Seeds of Strength: Empowering Tribal Mothers Throu...

This World Health Day, discover how nutri-gardens are helping tribal mothers in India improve child nutrition, health, and resilience, growing hope and healthier futures.