When Gladys Jepkorir arrived at our Kipkaren Children’s Home at just 8 years old, she carried very little with her—but everything about her life was about to change!

She was welcomed with something simple yet powerful: flowers, a toothbrush, and a place to belong. At ELI, Gladys didn’t just receive care, she was given a family. Surrounded by love, daily prayer, and constant encouragement, she began to discover her identity, her worth, and the beautiful future God had for her.

Like many children, her journey wasn’t without challenges. Early on, Gladys faced a serious illness, but through the care and support she received, her life was preserved and strengthened. What could have been a stopping point became part of the foundation God used to shape her story.

As she grew, so did her confidence, her faith, and her sense of purpose. Today, Gladys is a special needs teacher at Malaika Special Kids Centre, where she serves children with autism each day. With compassion and joy, she teaches practical life skills and creates a space where every child is seen, valued, and deeply loved. The same care she once received is now being poured out into the lives of others!

Gladys is proud to call herself an ELI alumni, and her life is a powerful testimony to what happens when a child is given the opportunity to truly thrive.

Because of the faithful support of partners like you, children like Gladys are not only cared for—they are equipped, empowered, and sent out to impact their communities in lasting ways.

And today, her story continues! Through every child she teaches, every life she touches, and every moment she chooses to love and serve, she reflects the love she first experienced.

Watch the video below to hear Gladys share her story in her own words.