History

In 2000 in an effort to help address the growing orphan crisis in Africa, Ronna Jordan began leading volunteer teams to assist orphanages and partner with orphan projects throughout the continent. In 2003 she established the National Day of Care, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, which promoted a day across the United States annually to advance awareness and enlist the involvement of individuals, and groups in providing orphan care.

In 2010 Ronna and her organization were introduced to Kenya Volunteers in Missions established by Shem and Jared Okello and began a partnership with them.  The present focus and work is in Western Kenya where the post-election violence of 2007-2008 devastated the region resulting in widespread homelessness, food insecurity, deterioration of schools and secondary education, medical facilities, and infrastructure which presented an increased need for orphan care and assistance to the elderly and sustainable economic projects.

In the years following the establishment of the National Day of Care the organization also recognized the need to provide assistance to other victims of humanitarian crises.   As a result they have been involved in helping children and families in crisis and disaster relief efforts such as food, water, and clothing distribution in Africa, the United States, and around the globe.

As the National Day of Care transitioned from primarily promoting awareness and involvement in orphan care to being more project specific in Africa, and advancing other assistance endeavors, the name was changed to Houses with Hope in 2014.  The purpose of Houses with Hope is to build homes primarily for widows taking care of orphans in Africa and to provide assistance to disadvantaged families and victims of humanitarian crises worldwide.