January 12, 2026

About Changing A Destiny (2026 Update)

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 ClubRonald McDonald HouseMackynzie’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.

A Story Born From Love

Changing A Destiny was born out of love for a baby boy named Raymond, whom Kathy Kohl met during a mission trip to Kilifi County, Kenya, in 2017.

Raymond’s life began under heartbreaking circumstances. He was left in a trash bag alongside the road just after birth. By God’s mercy, a stranger found him, brought him to a hospital, and he eventually arrived at an orphanage.

Kathy visited Raymond three times and formed a deep bond with him. After returning home, her Kenyan friend Nicole continued visiting Raymond on her behalf, sending photos and videos so Kathy could see that he was safe, healthy, and growing.

One day, seeing a photo of Nicole’s husband, Tom, holding Raymond, Kathy felt God place a question on her heart: What if they adopted him?

Kathy brought the idea to her Bible study group, who prayed alongside her. In a beautiful moment of faith, one woman in the group offered to pay all the adoption fees if Nicole and Tom agreed. Tears of joy followed—clear confirmation that Kathy was meant to ask.

When Kathy shared the idea with Nicole, she discovered God had already placed the same desire in their hearts.

Raymond was adopted, and today—eight years later—Kathy continues to watch him grow into a healthy, joyful young boy. He adores his big sister Gloria, who had prayed for a baby brother and rejoiced when God answered.

Expanding the Mission

Nicole and Kathy share a deep desire to give more children like Raymond the same opportunity for hope and a future. They believe that education and faith are foundational to break the cycle of poverty.

Without guidance and education, children are vulnerable to criminal gangs, trafficking, slavery, and sold off to marry older men in exchange for money to feed the rest of the family. God placed it on their hearts to change that path by building a school in Kilifi County, Kenya, where children could receive education, nourishment, and spiritual grounding.

What God Has Already Done

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
  • church and Sunday school shelter
  • 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
  • Continued care for the children and staff

This is where you come in.

Will you join us in changing a destiny—one child, one family, one future at a time? Their are over 80 children at our school need sponsorship.Check out our website under “Sponsor A Child”

Donate Today ~ ChangingADestiny.org
https://www.changingadestiny.org

An questions please call the American Founder Kathy Kohl 414-861-8749