Vision becomes movement
What we stand for
Since 2005, a bold idea in Hamburg has grown into a strong movement in Namibia and Zimbabwe - supported by partnerships, a pioneering spirit and the determination to bring about lasting change.
Seit 2005 leben und gestalten wir Veränderung – was als mutiger Schritt unseres Gründers in Hamburg begann, wirkt heute in Namibia und Simbabwe. Wir verbinden unternehmerischen Pioniergeist mit voller Offenheit und bauen auf starke Partnerschaften, die unser Wirken tragen. Wirf einen Blick hinter die Kulissen: Erfahre mehr über unsere Vision, unsere Erfolge und die Menschen, die steps for children zur Bewegung machen.
Our vision
We empower children, young people and families in southern Africa through education, entrepreneurship and strong partnerships. We create prospects and promote independence.
We live our vision
We empower children and young adults in southern Africa to break the cycle of poverty on their own through education and training. We create income opportunities that secure people's livelihoods in the long term. Our vision is to become less dependent on donations in the long term.
We live our mission
Our work is based on entrepreneurial thinking and action. We support and strengthen awareness in the local community for a self-determined way of life. At our locations in southern Africa, we are anchored in the poorest regions. One focus is on facilities for the education and training of children, young people and adults. We provide orphans and families affected by poverty with access to education, nutrition and medical care.
As social entrepreneurs, we set up small businesses, create jobs and train our employees. The surpluses generated flow to our institutions and finance their activities. Our long-term goal is to become less dependent on donations.
We create a social return on investment by improving the lives of local people. We support them in developing skills to overcome their challenges and bring about change.
From the entrepreneur
to the education donor
Dr. Michael Hoppes Weg zu steps for children
After more than 30 years as a successful entrepreneur in market research, Dr. Michael Hoppe decided to take a new path. At the age of 53, he sold his company and set out in search of a meaningful task. His wish: to give something back and give disadvantaged children a better future.
In 2005, Hoppe traveled to Kenya, South Africa and Namibia to find suitable projects. He finally found the right place in Okakarara, Namibia. Together with Erika von Wietersheim, a Namibian with German roots, the first steps for children project was selected, the name of the foundation was coined and the trust in Namibia was established with her support. Hoppe went on to develop a concept that combines education and social support with entrepreneurial thinking. This gave rise to the idea of "income-generating steps": small businesses such as sewing workshops, computer schools, guest houses and rental apartments, the proceeds of which finance the social projects.
steps for children unterstützt jedes Jahr über 2.000 Kinder und Jugendliche in Namibia und Simbabwe. Mit Bildungsprogrammen, Suppenküchen und Pflegefamilien bietet die Stiftung Kindern eine Chance auf eine bessere Zukunft. Gleichzeitig fördert sie durch ihre Einkommen erzielende steps Projekte die wirtschaftliche Entwicklung vor Ort.
Structure of the organization
Together with local partners, we are creating sustainable prospects in Namibia and Zimbabwe - through education, local support and the creation of stable structures.
Our non-profit aid organization supports people from Namibia and Zimbabwe. It cooperates with existing organizations. In this way, the steps for children foundation takes up existing infrastructures in the country and expands and develops them. mithilfe von Freund:innen, Unterstützer:innen und Förder:innen aus Deutschland und der Schweiz die einzelnen Einrichtungen. Gemeinsam mit den bereits bestehenden Kinderhilfsprojekten werden nachhaltige Lösungen erarbeitet und den Menschen im südlichen Afrika Zukunftsperspektiven eröffnet.
We are excellent
Outstanding commitment - our successes and awards confirm the impact of our work and motivate us to continue taking responsibility.
Our partners and supporters
Our work depends on the people and organizations that support us.
Whether companies, foundations or individuals - together we create future prospects for children and young people in Namibia. Thank you for your help!
