“Child Advocacy”… such an official sounding term, isn’t it? Miriam Webster defines advocacy as “the act or process of supporting a cause or proposal”, and when broken down that way, it’s a pretty simple concept.
Many of us are child advocates in our daily lives and perhaps not even aware of it. If you’re a parent who is involved in supporting or promoting your child’s education or extra-curricular activities, that is advocacy. If you teach Sunday school or help in your church’s nursery, that is advocacy. If you contribute financially to any organization that is dedicated to improving the condition of a child in some way, that is advocacy.
At Forward Edge, child sponsorship is the fundamental way that we invite people to become child advocates. On the most basic level, it offers a sponsor the opportunity to invest financially in the holistic care of their child. However, because we so value and encourage relationship development between sponsor and child, it also provides them the means to contribute emotionally and spiritually through communication and visitation.
Here are a few additional ideas on how to boost your advocacy and impact:
In thinking about what other ways we might be able to maximize our advocacy, you can look to Zechariah 4:10 as an encouragement; “Do not despise these small beginnings, for the LORD rejoices to see the work begin, to see the plumb line in Zerubbabel’s hand.” A little initiative can go a long way; you never know who might just be waiting for an invitation from you to join in impacting the life of a child.
P.S. If you’re enthusiastic about becoming more engaged as a Child Advocate, but need some help putting ideas together or working through the details, please contact us; we would love to help. Email us at fei@forwardedge.org or call 360-574-3343.
by Joseph Anfuso I had no idea in the spring of 1980 that a two-day trip to Nicaragua would not only change the trajectory of my life, but cause me to reimagine Jesus’ commission in Mark 16:15: “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature.” At
Jollof rice is THE signature meal of Ghana. The classic Jollof recipe varies a bit region to region (in fact, Ghana and Nigeria have a friendly ‘rivalry’ over whose jollof is better). It is made using tomatoes, peppers, onions and spices from the region and is often served alongside fish or fufu. In
Pilau with beef is a traditional and iconic dish in Kenyan cuisine. It’s often served during special occasions and celebrations such as weddings, birthdays, and holidays. But we have found it to make for an amazing dinner any time of the week. There is much to celebrate at our program
Tim Ainley, CEO of Forward Edge, recently shared an inspiring message at a graduation commencement ceremony that is a timely and impactful message for us all. But, especially for recent graduates, young adults, and teens, these words could be the guiding principles you need as you step into a world
13 yrs. old
Entered the program: November 2025
Amina lives with her father, mother, 5 siblings, and several other members as part of an extended predominantly Muslim polygamous family. Their six-room home is built with cement, roofed with aluminum, and has a concrete floor. It houses 13 people.
Amina’s father is a farmer and cultivates rice, maize, and pepper though what he harvests does not provide enough food to sustain them through to the next farming season. Her mother is a Christian, as is Amina, and she works as a trader. The family has two meals a day but struggles to provide for all the needs of the children. Without help from CHG, Amina would not be able to attend school regularly for lack of school fees and supplies.
Plus bonus group fundraising ideas!
