Pamoja for Change: Transforming Communities through Giving

Philanthropy in Africa often begins at home, and the Kenya Community Development Foundation (KCDF) embodies this spirit in every aspect of its work. By fostering a culture of giving among its staff and the communities it partners with, KCDF has redefined what it means to drive sustainable social change. Through initiatives like Payroll Giving and Shilling for a Shilling, the foundation is proving that generosity can be a powerful force for transformation.

Leading by Example

At KCDF, the practice of giving starts from within. The foundation’s staff have embraced a Payroll Giving initiative, contributing a portion of their salaries to support community projects through the KCDF Endowment Fund. An impressive 90% of staff participate, reflecting a shared belief in the importance of giving back. This initiative demonstrates KCDF’s commitment to leading by example, showing how collective action can directly impact lives.

Empowering Communities with Shilling for a Shilling

KCDF’s innovative Shilling for a Shilling initiative takes the spirit of giving to the communities it serves. This unique model matches every shilling raised by a community with an equal contribution from KCDF. The approach ensures that communities play an active role in their development, fostering a sense of ownership and pride.

Over the years, KCDF has partnered with more than 200 organizations to implement community-driven projects through this initiative. The impact is evident in stories like these:

• Epilepsy Care Centre, Nairobi: With KCDF’s support, a specialized care center was built in Nairobi to serve individuals living with epilepsy. The center provides a safe space for medical care, education, and support, significantly improving the quality of life for many.
• Water Pipeline Project, Emali, Makueni County: In Emali, the Itaava community faced the challenge of walking over 4 kilometers to fetch water. Through the Shilling for a Shilling initiative, the community raised KES 700,000, supported by contributions from the Emali Dedicated Children’s Agency and KCDF. This collaboration funded a 2-kilometer pipeline from the Kikuu River to the Itaava Community Centre, transforming access to water for schools, churches, and households.

Building a Legacy of Giving

KCDF’s initiatives highlight the incredible potential of African communities to lead their own development. By involving communities in fundraising and project implementation, KCDF nurtures a culture of giving that ensures long-lasting impact.

This is what giving in Africa looks like—local solutions driven by local generosity, creating meaningful and sustainable change. Through stories like these, KCDF reminds us that we all have a role to play in shaping the future, one shilling at a time.