When I first traveled to Malawi in 2007, I didn’t know how deeply it would change me. I didn’t go with the intention of building schools or starting a nonprofit — I simply went to listen. What I found there was a depth of resilience, generosity, and community that moved me in ways I couldn’t unsee. I kept returning, again and again.

In 2011, I founded With Change In Mind to support communities in Malawi in the ways they asked for — not the ways I assumed they needed. For the first several years, we partnered with local leaders and existing grassroots organizations on projects across the country. We built relationships and trust. And we learned.

By 2017, we were ready to deepen our roots. We built our first kindergarten, and in 2021, we built our second. Since then, we’ve served nearly a thousad children with early education, nutrition, and a safe, joyful place to grow. We’ve created after-school programs, invested in local teachers, and committed to staying in the lives of the students we serve.

The work we do in Malawi isn’t charity. It’s collaboration. It’s connection. It’s community. And it’s a privilege to walk alongside the families, staff, and supporters who make it all possible.

Thank you for being here. Whether you’re a donor, a volunteer, a traveler, or someone just learning about WCIM, I’m glad you’ve found your way to us. You are welcome here.

With love and purpose,
Erin Hempen
Founder, With Change In Mind