Steps towards a
self-determined future
steps for children creates opportunities for children and young adults in Namibia and Zimbabwe – through access to education, training and support on the path to an independent life.
How we help
We empower children and young adults in southern Africa to overcome poverty through education and training, secure sustainable incomes and strive for long-term independence from donations.
Soup kitchen
One hot meal a day
Kindergartens
Support for children aged 3-5 years
Agricultural project
Growing vegetables for the soup kitchens and for sale
Guest houses
Accommodation for travellers
Guardian angel programme
Comprehensive support for pupils
steps students
Comprehensive support for trainees and students
steps homes
Support for orphans
Trainee Home
Rooms for students in Gobabis
Afternoon care
Support after school
Chicken breeding
Supported by solar incubator
Our locations
Our project work on the ground aims for long-term change – with education, care and social entrepreneurial thinking.
Participate and experience
There are many ways to support girls and boys in Namibia – on site with expertise and commitment or from Germany as an individual, school or company.
Get involved in Namibia and Germany
Whether in our education centres in Okakarara, Gobabis, Rehoboth and Okahandja or from Germany – anyone who contributes their time and skills makes a valuable contribution. On site, volunteers support education, meals and leisure activities and provide children with stability and opportunities. At the same time, commitment in Germany is also indispensable: It supports the further development of our projects and helps sustainably promote the future of children and young people in Namibia – especially where poverty and HIV/AIDS shape people's lives.
Newsletter
Stay up to date – learn more about the latest developments at our locations and what is happening at steps for children in Germany. Sign up for our newsletter now and never miss any news!
About us
What began with a vision in Namibia is now a multiple award-winning foundation with a strong impact. Find out more about our founder, our goals and what we stand for. We value transparency and thank our partners and supporters who make this journey possible.
In short...
Worth knowing about our work for a better future for children and young people in Namibia and Zimbabwe.
What is the main goal of steps for children?
The foundation is committed to giving children and young people in Namibia and Zimbabwe sustainable prospects for the future through education, care and training.
How does steps for children provide concrete support on the ground?
Through crèches, kindergartens, preschools, after-school care, soup kitchens and the Guardian Angel Program, children receive holistic support.
What are „income-generating steps“?
These are small businesses such as guesthouses, a sewing workshop or vegetable growing, whose proceeds flow directly into social projects and contribute to financial independence.
How can I help from Germany?
Through donations, sponsorships, voluntary engagement, school campaigns or organising their own fundraising campaigns, such as sponsored runs or birthday fundraising campaigns.
How can I get involved on the ground in Namibia?
Volunteers can work on projects, e.g. in childcare, teaching or organising leisure activities. This can also take the form of a social holiday.
How are donations used?
Donations flow directly into education and care projects as well as the development of income-generating measures for long-term project financing.
Who is behind the foundation?
steps for children was founded in 2005 by Michael Hoppe in Hamburg and is now supported by many endowments. In Namibia, the foundation works closely with local partners and dedicated staff on the ground.
steps current
Find out what is happening right now – in Namibia, Zimbabwe and in our foundation’s work. Our blog posts for everyone who wants to delve deeper.
