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 way to a self-determined 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 local project work aims to bring about long-term change - with education, support and social entrepreneurial thinking.
Participate and experience
There are many ways to support girls and boys in Namibia - locally with expertise and commitment or from Germany as an individual, school or company.
Participation 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. Volunteers provide local support with education, catering and leisure activities and give children support and prospects. At the same time, the commitment in Germany is also indispensable: it strengthens the further development of our projects and helps to sustainably promote the future of children and young people in Namibia - especially where poverty and HIV/Aids characterise life.
Newsletter
Stay up to date - find out 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 more news!
About us
What began with a vision in Namibia is now a multi-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 for making this journey possible.
In short...
Interesting facts 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 opening up sustainable future prospects for children and young people in Namibia and Zimbabwe through education, care and training.
How does steps for children provide concrete support on the ground?
Day nurseries, kindergartens, pre-schools, afternoon care, soup kitchens and the Guardian Angel programme provide holistic support for children.
What are „income-generating steps“?
These are small businesses such as guest houses, a sewing workshop or vegetable growing, the proceeds of which flow directly into the social projects and contribute to financial independence.
How can I help from Germany?
Through donations, sponsorships, voluntary work, school campaigns or the organisation of our own fundraising campaigns, such as charity 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 social leave.
How are donations used?
Donations flow directly into education and care projects as well as into 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 donations. In Namibia, the foundation works closely with local partners and committed employees on the ground.
steps current
Find out what's happening right now - in Namibia, Zimbabwe and in our foundation's work. Our blog posts for all those who want to delve deeper.
