There’s really improvement happening, and the lessons can really be applied in the everyday lives of the children who attend here.”
Poverty can limit more than a child’s access to basic needs. It can limit their exposure to new ideas, experiences, role models and opportunities that help them imagine what’s possible for their future. Without the right support, children may miss critical opportunities to build the skills, confidence and the mindset they need to thrive in adulthood. At Children International, we believe ending poverty starts with children, helping them forge a Path of Opportunity™ for themselves, their families and their communities.
Drawing on the UNICEF framework and expert input, we created a data-driven approach to support children through every stage of development. We call it Path of Opportunity™, a transformative program model for children and youth to help them move from poverty into economic independence. Our program focuses on key areas of impact including education, social-emotional skills, health resources, life skills and support landing their first job when they reach young adulthood. Research shows that, when developed in a supportive environment, these skills help children grow into positive members of their families and community.
Path of Opportunity supports children through every stage of development. Children may begin as early as 2 years old and follow the path until age 24. It’s not a single activity or short-term intervention. Path of Opportunity is a long-term journey that meets children and youth where they are and supports them through key milestones. Each development stage builds upon the other to guide children down a path to confident adulthood.
Young people leave our program ready to contribute to their families, workplaces and communities. It’s a ripple effect of good that can transform a community and break the cycle of generational poverty. When a young person completes Path of Opportunity, they’ll command the life skills needed to navigate personal, academic, social and economic challenges. Together, these skills prepare young people for sustainable employment and long-term success.
Listen to a deep dive on Path of Opportunity in Episode Seven of Children International’s Multiplying Good podcast
In this episode of Children International’s Multiplying Good podcast, Global Program leaders Kristen Mallory and Nadia Moreno offer some inspiring insights into Path of Opportunity, Children International’s newly evolved program model that brings our mission to life. Grounded in research, this approach meets children and youth where they are, connects them to trained leaders from their own neighborhoods, and empowers them to learn and thrive alongside their peers.
Children International focuses our work in 10 regions across the world, including the United States.
Where we work
Path of Opportunity involves parents and caregivers throughout the journey, creating a positive impact on the entire community. In safe community spaces close to home, children learn with peers, build friendships and gain practical skills with the support of trained local Club Leaders. The result? Children develop into confident young adults with the mindset, skills and tools to reach their goals, become sustainably employed and positively influence their community.
Hear from children and families impacted by our program.
There’s really improvement happening, and the lessons can really be applied in the everyday lives of the children who attend here.”
I like the group activities the most. Because we get to practice cooperation, coming together, and considering and respecting the decisions of others.”
These experiences have helped me a great deal when it comes to my future, because I now have clear goals in mind that I want to achieve.”
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Headquartered in Kansas City, Missouri, Children International is a top‑rated child and youth development organization focused on helping children and young people break the cycle of poverty.
Our data-driven approach measures the outcomes of our programs aimed at helping kids graduate healthy, educated, empowered and employed.
We take our responsibility as stewards of your contributions seriously.
In FY 2025, 82% of our total operating expenses supported programs for children and youth.
Large or small, your donation helps kids break the cycle of poverty.
Meet some of our amazing kids who are waiting for sponsorship.
