Our Story
The Story Behind
Changing A Destiny
In 2017, during a mission trip to Kenya, God began planting a vision in my heart that would eventually become Changing A Destiny.
Meeting Raymond
While serving in Kenya, I visited an orphanage called Baby Life Rescue. It was there that I met a tiny baby boy named Raymond. His story deeply impacted me. Raymond had been abandoned in the trash alongside the road shortly after he was born. By God’s grace, a stranger found him, rushed him to the hospital, and he was eventually brought to the orphanage where I met him.
During my trip, I had the privilege of visiting Raymond three different times, and with each visit my heart became more connected to him. When I returned home, my dear Kenyan friend, Nicole, visited Raymond on my behalf. She sent me photos and videos to keep me updated on how he was doing.
A Holy Spirit Prompting
One photo, in particular, caught my attention. It showed Nicole and her husband, Tom, lovingly holding Raymond. At that moment, I felt the Holy Spirit prompting me to ask them if they had ever considered adopting him. When I shared what I felt God had placed on my heart, Nicole told me she would pray about it. Little did I know, God had already been working in both of their hearts.
Later that year, Nicole and Tom welcomed Raymond into their family. Today, nine years later, I have had the incredible joy of watching him grow into a healthy, happy young boy who is deeply loved.
From One Child to Many
Raymond’s story became the seed that God used to grow Changing A Destiny.
Nicole and I share a calling to help children like Raymond—children who have little or no access to education, opportunity, or hope. Together, we are working to change that. On 2.5 acres of land in Kenya, God has provided a place where a church and school are bringing education, the hope of the Gospel, and the love of Christ to the next generation.
Nicole and Tom continue to faithfully serve as the hands and feet of Jesus in Kenya, living out the Gospel every day. It is a blessing to partner with them in this ministry.
Our vision is simple but powerful: to give as many children as possible the opportunity to receive an education, discover their God-given purpose, and experience the transforming love of Jesus Christ.
“While Raymond’s story was the earthly inspiration behind this ministry, Jesus Christ is the true foundation of Changing A Destiny. It is His love that compels us to serve, His grace that gives us hope, and His calling that leads us forward.”
Our prayer is that through Christ, lives will be transformed, futures will be restored, and destinies will be changed—for His glory.
What God Has Already Done
2.5
Acres of Land
126
Enrolled Children (2026)
8
Classrooms Built
14
Local Staff Members
Changing A Destiny is a non-profit organization that began with a single mission trip to Kenya and has grown into a ministry serving both local and international families.
Today, Changing A Destiny partners with Life Choices, a local family resource, to support families with children by providing everyday essentials—free of charge. Together, we serve women who feel scared, alone, and uncertain about their future by offering hope, dignity, and practical support.
In addition to our international work, we are deeply committed to serving our local community. We proudly support and partner with organizations such as the Waterford Lions Club, Ronald McDonald House, Mackynzie’s Bag of Hope—which provides suitcases and bags for children in foster care—Shoes for Families, and Love INC, helping to feed families in need. We also collaborate with local businesses by hosting fundraisers on Main Street in Waterford, strengthening community connections and extending our impact close to home.
With the support of an experienced board of directors, Nicole and Tom established a registered nonprofit in Kenya. Through God’s provision, the ministry now includes:
- 2.5 acres of land
- A church and Sunday school shelter
- A 105-foot-deep well with fresh water
- 8 classrooms
- 126 enrolled children (as of 2026)
- Breakfast and lunch provided during the school week
- 14 local staff members serving faithfully
How You Can Help
While the foundation is in place, ongoing support is needed to provide basic school supplies and educational equipment, a sustainable meal program, and continued care for the children and staff.
Will you join us in changing a destiny—one child, one family, one future at a time? There are over 80 children at our school who need sponsorship. Check out our website under “Sponsor A Child.”
Any questions please call the American Founder Kathy Kohl at 414-861-8749.