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PODCAST · government

Build Relationships. Break Poverty.

by Children's HopeChest

“Build Relationships. Break Poverty." is a podcast that challenges the Western perception of international poverty by elevating the voices of local leaders and processing how we can help to alleviate poverty without harming those living in vulnerable communities. We are Children’s HopeChest, and we believe that building two-way relationships will break the cycle of poverty.

Publisher-supplied feed metadata · PodParley refreshed Apr 30, 2026 · Source feed

Episodes

  1. Immeasurably More With Jim Cords

    Join Will Crooks and Pastor Jim Cords from St. Timothy in San Jose, California, as they celebrate the journey of CarePoint graduation. From igniting leadership in adolescents to inspiring generosity and discipleship in a congregation, this episode shows how communities can transform when faith,...

  2. Starting with the End in Mind w/ Krista Carver

    In this episode of Build Relationships. Break Poverty., we continue our Path to Graduation series with Partner Krista Carver from Core Community Church in Shelby, Ohio. Krista shares how her church, though small in size, has built two thriving partnerships—one in Guatemala and one in…

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  3. Voices from the Field on CarePoint Graduation

    What does it take for a CarePoint to transition from external support to local leadership? In this roundtable conversation, HopeChest brings together Tenbit (Ethiopia), Isaac (Uganda), and Sam (Guatemala) alongside CEO Ken Sparks to share insights from the frontlines of CarePoint graduation. From...

  4. Walking With CarePoints: Jen deBruin on Graduation and Transformation

    Jen deBruin has walked alongside three CarePoints for over a decade. In this episode, she shares what graduation means for the communities, children, and families she loves—and how relationships and transformation make it all possible. Learn more about CarePoint Graduation by visiting...

  5. Stories of Hope from Uganda: Richard & Alice’s CarePoint Journeys

    Hear powerful stories from Kabermaido CarePoint, located in Eastern Uganda. This conversation features two graduates from the CarePoint: Richard and Alice. Be inspired as they describe the impact that the CarePoint has had on their lives, from supporting them through loss, to providing them with…

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  6. Ending Gender-Based Violence in Ethiopia: A Conversation with I Care For the Nation Founder

    Discover the inspiring work of I Care for the Nation CarePoint in our conversation with founder Ayneabeba "Ayni" Maru. Based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, the CarePoint focuses on sustainable development, providing holistic care and job training to vulnerable women and children. Ayni discusses their...

  7. Leaving a Legacy Through Sponsorship: Atkelt Simon's Story

    In the grand finale of our "Fueling the Future" series, we're honored to have Atkelt Simon, an extraordinary individual who once benefited from sponsorship and is now a vital part of the HopeChest team. Join us as Atkelt shares his remarkable journey from being a sponsored child to a dedicated...

  8. From Sponsorship to Success: The Transformative Power of Relationship

    In this episode, we hear the inspiring story of a couple who decided to sponsor a child in need, not just for a short-term period, but until the child became an adult and achieved success. We explore how the relationship between the couple and the child grew over the years and how they provided…

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  9. From Russia with Love: The Inspiring Story of HopeChest's Roots

    Welcome to the launch of "Fueling the Future," a new series by Children's HopeChest that's all about investing in today's teens and young adults to empower tomorrow's leaders. In this episode, we're thrilled to be joined by four of our own employees, including Rachel Andrews, VP of International...

  10. Partnership Story – Jim Foubister and Billy Swanson, Tri County Air Conditioning and Heating

    Community-to-community relationships are an important part of the HopeChest approach. We share lots of incredible transformation stories from the countries where we work, but what is the transformation like for the communities here in the United States? We are so excited to be sharing a series…

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  11. Partnership Story – John Sparks, The River Church

    Community-to-community relationships are an important part of the HopeChest approach. We share lots of incredible transformation stories from the countries where we work, but what is the transformation like for the communities here in the United States? We are so excited to be sharing a series…

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  12. Partnership Story – Brandon Boos, Faith & Zion Lutheran Church

    Community-to-community relationships are an important part of the HopeChest approach. We share lots of incredible transformation stories from the countries where we work, but what is the transformation like for the communities here in the United States? We are so excited to be sharing a series…

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  13. Partnership Story – Jen Debruin, Orphans of Teso Connect Community

    Community-to-community relationships are an important part of the HopeChest approach. We share lots of incredible transformation stories from the countries where we work, but what is the transformation like for the communities here in the United States? We are so excited to be sharing a series…

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  14. Partnership Story - Thad Spring, All Shores Wesleyan Church

    Community-to-community relationships are an important part of the HopeChest approach. We share lots of incredible transformation stories from the countries where we work, but what is the transformation like for the communities here in the United States? We are so excited to be sharing a series…

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  15. Partnership Story - Steven Deur, Watermark Church

    Community-to-community relationships are an important part of the HopeChest approach. We share lots of incredible transformation stories from the countries where we work, but what is the transformation like for the communities here in the United States? We are so excited to be sharing a brand new...

  16. You Asked, Guatemala's Country Director Answered

    In October, we asked you, our thoughtful and curious community, what questions you had for Children’s HopeChest Guatemala Country Director, Carolina Cardona. You asked, and Carolina answered! In this month’s unique episode, we are featuring your fantastic questions for Carolina. Support the show...

  17. You Asked, Ethiopia's Country Director Answered

    In August, we asked you, our thoughtful and curious community, what questions you had for Children’s HopeChest Uganda Country Director, Milkias "Mickey" Taye. You asked, and Mickey answered! In this month’s unique episode, we are featuring your fantastic questions for Mickey. Support the show...

  18. You Asked, Russia's Country Director Answered

    In June, we asked you, our thoughtful and curious community, what questions you had for Children’s HopeChest Russia Country Director, Katya Celenina. You asked, and Katya answered! In this month’s unique episode, we are featuring your fantastic questions for Katya. Support the show

  19. You Asked, Uganda's Country Director Answered

    In May, we asked you, our thoughtful and curious community, what questions you had for Children’s HopeChest Uganda Country Director, Joseph Elotu. You asked, and Joseph answered! In this month’s unique episode, we are featuring eight of your fantastic questions for Joseph. Support the show

  20. How Communities Around the World Care for the Environment

    One of the greatest assets that we all share is this beautiful planet that we call home! How are vulnerable communities taking a stand against climate change? This month, hear from five international Children's HopeChest staff about earth-friendly projects in their communities. These projects are...

  21. How Are Programs Implemented in Communities? Interview with HopeChest’s International Operations Director

    In community development that focuses on poverty alleviation, community projects are incredibly important to long-term self-sustainability. Have you ever been curious about how programs are chosen for each CarePoint community? Or how programs that are implemented in Russia are different from...

  22. You Asked, Children's HopeChest's CEO Answered

    In January, we asked you, our thoughtful and curious community, what questions you had for Children’s HopeChest President and CEO, Ken Sparks. You asked, and Ken answered! In this month’s unique episode of “Build Relationships. Break Poverty.” we are featuring eight of your fantastic questions…

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  23. A New Year’s Message from Children’s HopeChest’s President + CEO

    This first podcast episode of the year features HopeChest President and CEO, Ken Sparks. Hear about significant victories from 2020, as well as Ken’s vision for the organization in 2021. You don’t want to miss these exciting updates! Support the show

  24. Spiritual and Mental Health During the Pandemic in Guatemala

    For many, this year has been a struggle with mental health. This month we are sharing an interview with Andrea Mazariegos and Jose Carlos Ramos, two Guatemala CarePoint Coordinators with backgrounds in psychology. To support children’s emotional health and provide discipleship during a season of...

  25. Introducing, Greater Calling! Four Experts Weigh in on Corporate Social Responsibility

    Having a resonant business is now about more than providing a great product or service. Did you know that 90% of Gen Z believes companies must act to help social and environmental issues and 75% will do research to see if a company is being honest when it takes a stand on issues. * Children’s...

  26. Moving Mountains: an interview with Hellen, leader of Mt. Elgone CarePoint in Kenya

    How is the pandemic affecting one of the most impoverished communities in Kenya, and what is being done to meet critical needs and create opportunities for long-term change in that area? Hellen Makani, dynamic leader of Mt. Elgone CarePoint shares captivating stories that will fill your heart…

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  27. Hear What Children's HopeChest Has to Say on Core Values and Racial Equality

    Children’s HopeChest stands on the side of justice. Hear from Ken Sparks (HopeChest President and CEO), Rachel Andrews (VP of Community Partnerships), and Mickey Gutema (Ethiopia Country Director) about how Children’s HopeChest’s core values promote racial justice. Support the show

  28. Part Two | A Day in the Life of 3 Program Coordinators in Ethiopia

    This month’s podcast episode is part two and the last of the multi-episode “day in the life” series featuring HopeChest’s Ugandan and Ethiopian in-country staff. Hear straight from Fikre, Yared, and Alex as they share stories from their daily work at HopeChest’s Ethiopia head office. Combined,...

  29. Part One | A Day in the Life of 3 Program Coordinators in Ethiopia

    While traveling last winter, VP of Community Partnerships, Rachel Andrews, sat down with Fikre, Yared, and Alex, who shared what their daily work is like at the head office in Ethiopia as Program Coordinators. In this episode, they share what the most rewarding and challenging aspects of their…

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  30. Part Two | A Day in the Life of 3 Uganda CarePoint Project Coordinators

    Combined, Ezra, Stella, and Philip have 15 years of experience leading communities in Uganda. Although Children’s HopeChest’s CarePoint community development begins by focusing on children, these three have a lot on their plates as they serve not only the children at their CarePoints, but their...

  31. Part One | A Day in the Life of 3 Uganda CarePoint Project Coordinators

    Combined, Ezra, Stella, and Philip have 15 years of experience leading communities in Uganda. Although Children’s HopeChest’s CarePoint community development begins by focusing on children, these three have a lot on their plates as they serve not only the children at their CarePoints, but their...

  32. What Is the Work of a Program Manager in Guatemala Like? Interview with Samuel Montero

    Not even a Colorado blizzard could stop these two from recording an episode for “Build Relationships. Break Poverty.” In this month’s episode, Sam and Rachel (VP of Community Partnerships) talk through how HopeChest Guatemala’s programs are restoring dignity for children, their families, and…

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  33. What We've Learned and Where We're Going | 25th Anniversary Episode

    We’re publishing our first podcast of the year, and this one is in celebration of our 25th anniversary! During this exciting conversation, Sally Townsend (Chairperson of the Board) and Ken Sparks (CEO and President) share: about the first moment they felt deeply connected to HopeChest’s mission...

  34. Six Quick (But Powerful) Stories of Transformation

    We use the word “transformation” a lot here at Children’s HopeChest. Sometimes, when a word is used so often, it can begin to feel lackluster. Today on the “Build Relationships. Break Poverty.” podcast, we are sharing six different stories of transformation to bring the word alive. Each story is...

  35. Interview with Masha on 21 Years of Empowering Orphaned Youth in Russia

    Today we are delighted to share a special conversation with Rachel Andrews (HopeChest VP of Community Partnerships) and Masha Bodrova (HopeChest Russia Finance and Program Coordinator), who have been dear friends for 21 years. In this month’s episode they discuss how HopeChest Russia has grown…

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  36. How Music is Unlocking the Potential of Children Living in Poverty: Interview with Londiwe Dlamini

    Do you remember the songs that have transformed your life? The songs that have met you on dark days and carried you to brighter seasons? Music's power to heal and encourage is universal, but today Londiwe Dlamini is sharing stories of music empowering youth in Eswatini. Londiwe is the Music...

  37. Interview with Simon Okello, Uganda's Sponsorship & Communications Manager

    Simon Okello is a man who makes instant friends. He has been working with Children’s HopeChest for over seven years and is Uganda’s Sponsorship and Communications Manager. In this position Simon gets to know the most vulnerable children and families in Uganda’s CarePoint communities and manages…

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  38. It All Started in Russia. Interview with Katya Celenina, Russia Country Director.

    This year Children’s HopeChest is celebrating 25 years as an organization and we’re reflecting on where it all started. Katya Celenina, HopeChest Russia Country Director is recognized for her expertise in older orphan care, not just at HopeChest, but across Russia. She is one of HopeChest…

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  39. Carolina + Stephanie, Are You Helping or Harming While Visiting Another Culture?

    Why doesn’t HopeChest allow travelers to bring bags full of toys to hand out to children? Why are HopeChest trips called “partner visits” and not “mission trips?” Why do we ask travelers to never leave behind money for children or locals? Why don’t travelers build or complete short-term projects...

  40. JoE Lombard, Grief Counseling Trainer

    Today we have a fun episode of “Build Relationships. Break Poverty.” This conversation is with JoE, who has spent at least 20 years emotionally supporting youth across various cultures, equipping adults to walk through grief counseling with vulnerable children, and delivering grief counseling...

  41. Carolina Cardona, Guatemala Country Director

    Today we’re thrilled to share this conversation with Carolina Cardona, who is HopeChest’s Country Director of Guatemala. Carolina is a delight to speak with and this conversation is particularly encouraging. Carolina tells the story of her childhood and life story with graciousness and strength.…

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  42. Joseph Elotu, Uganda Country Director

    On today’s episode of “Build Relationships. Break Poverty,” we’re sharing a conversation with Joseph, who is HopeChest’s Country Director of Uganda. Joseph’s vision and love for his country is incredibly inspiring and we are blessed as an organization to have a man with so much passion to invest…

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  43. Mickey Taye, Ethiopia Country Director

    Today we’re sharing a conversation with Mickey Taye, who is HopeChest’s Country Director of Ethiopia. Mickey is the newest Country Director to join the HopeChest team, but he’s already rocking the position with strength, insight, and passion for his work. In this personal interview, Mickey shares...

  44. Bheki Motsa, Eswatini Senior Manager of Programs

    On today’s episode of “Build Relationships. Break Poverty.” we are sitting down with Eswatini’s Senior Manager of Programs, Bheki Motsa. Bheki is one of three senior managers, oversees all HopeChest programs, and carries an instrumental position in all of the growth and development of work being...

  45. Matt Gerber, Eswatini Country Director

    In this episode, we sit down with Matt Gerber, HopeChest’s and Adventures in Missions’s Country Director of Eswatini. Matt’s dream is to see his country “heal itself from within” so that Africa can provide for the needs of its own people. We had lots of fun recording this episode and even…

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

“Build Relationships. Break Poverty." is a podcast that challenges the Western perception of international poverty by elevating the voices of local leaders and processing how we can help to alleviate poverty without harming those living in vulnerable communities. We are Children’s HopeChest, and we believe that building two-way relationships will break the cycle of poverty.

HOSTED BY

Children's HopeChest

Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does Build Relationships. Break Poverty. have?

Build Relationships. Break Poverty. currently has 48 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is Build Relationships. Break Poverty. about?

“Build Relationships. Break Poverty." is a podcast that challenges the Western perception of international poverty by elevating the voices of local leaders and processing how we can help to alleviate poverty without harming those living in vulnerable communities. We are Children’s HopeChest, and we...

How often does Build Relationships. Break Poverty. release new episodes?

Build Relationships. Break Poverty. has 48 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.

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You can listen to Build Relationships. Break Poverty. on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.

Who hosts Build Relationships. Break Poverty.?

Build Relationships. Break Poverty. is created and hosted by Children's HopeChest.
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