Frequently asked questions
1. What is Open Gate Foundation?
Open Gate Foundation (OGF) is a survivor-led, community-rooted, non-profit Foundation working to advance justice, dignity, inclusion, and resilience for vulnerable communities in Kenya. We work through programs, partnerships, autonomous councils, and fiscally sponsored initiatives
2. Is Open Gate Foundation a church or church-based organization?
No. Open Gate Foundation is not a church and not a church-based organization.
We are a non-profit foundation that is faith-inspired, meaning our values are grounded in ethics such as compassion, justice, dignity, and service. We welcome people of all faiths and none.
3. Do you work with all denominations and faith traditions?
Yes. We welcome and work with all Christian denominations, other faith traditions, and non-faith community actors. Participation in our programs or partnerships does not require religious affiliation or conversion.
4. Where does Open Gate Foundation operate?
Our work is primarily based in Kenya, with activities implemented through community partners, councils, and programs across multiple counties and underserved communities.
About Governance and Identity
5. What does “survivor-led” mean?
Survivor-led means that people with lived experience of injustice, exclusion, or crisis play a meaningful role in shaping decisions, leadership, and program design—ensuring solutions are grounded in real community needs.
6. How is Open Gate Foundation governed?
OGF is guided by a governance structure that includes leadership, advisory councils, and survivor-informed decision-making processes. We prioritize accountability, safeguarding, and ethical leadership.
7. Is Open Gate Foundation legally registered?
Yes. Open Gate Foundation is legally registered and operates in compliance with Kenyan laws and applicable regulatory requirements for non-profit organizations.
Programs and Work
8. What types of programs does OGF implement?
Our programs include:
• Emergency Response & Humanitarian Support
• Mental Health & Trauma Healing
• Digital Inclusion & Economic Empowerment
• Savings & Internal Lending Communities (SILC)
• Orphans & Vulnerable Children (OVC) Programs
• Interfaith Peacebuilding
• Inclusive & Special Needs Education
9. Who benefits from your programs?
We work with:
• Women and girls at risk
• Survivors of violence and displacement
• Youth and persons with disabilities
• Grassroots and community organizations
• Marginalized and underserved communities
10. Do you give cash directly to individuals?
In most cases, no. Support is provided through structured programs, community initiatives, and partner organizations to ensure accountability, sustainability, and protection of beneficiaries.
Our Ecosystem
11. What is OGF Ecosystem?
The OGF ecosystem is a structured, programmatic model designed to deliver coordinated, survivor-led, and community-driven impact. It combines:
• Thematic Councils – program-focused units led by experts or survivors in specific areas (e.g., youth, disability, environment, advocacy)
• Fiscally Sponsored Partners – grassroots or emerging initiatives supported by OGF’s financial and legal framework
• Directly Implemented Programs – initiatives managed fully by OGF staff
This model ensures programmatic focus, quality, and accountability, while building local capacity.
12. What are Thematic Councils?
Thematic Councils are program-focused teams within the OGF ecosystem. Each council:
• Designs and implements specific programmatic activities aligned with OGF’s mission
• Is guided by OGF’s policies, governance, and standards
• Operates financially under OGF, which handles all accounting, legal compliance, and reporting
Important: The councils are not independent legal entities. They are integral parts of OGF’s ecosystem and work within OGF’s financial and operational oversight.
13. Examples of Thematic Councils
• Voice of Freedom Council – Human rights & advocacy
• Mazingira Council – Environmental programs
• FWJES – Women’s empowerment & social justice
• Centre for Disability Justice – Inclusive education & disability support
• Kenya Youth Alliance – Youth leadership and engagement
• Kingdom Ambassadors Missions – Faith-inspired community service
14. How does OGF support councils?
• Financial management and legal compliance
• Program monitoring and evaluation
• Capacity building and training
• Reporting and donor liaison
This ensures that all council activities are accountable, transparent, and impactful.
15. Can councils receive independent funding?
No. All funding for council programs is handled through OGF, which ensures compliance with Kenyan law, donor requirements, and safeguarding policies.
16. What is fiscal sponsorship?
Fiscal sponsorship allows grassroots or emerging initiatives to operate legally under OGF’s structure while receiving support in financial management, compliance, governance, and capacity building.
17. Can my organization apply for fiscal sponsorship?
Yes. Eligible organizations can apply through the Apply for Fiscal Sponsorship page. Applications are reviewed based on alignment, capacity, safeguarding, and impact potential.
Partnerships
18. Who can partner with Open Gate Foundation?
We partner with:
• Donors & trusts
• Grassroots and community organizations
• Faith-based institutions (all denominations)
• Government and public sector actors
• Volunteers and interns
19. Is OGF fiscally sponsored by CMA?
A. in Kenya, OGF is independently funded and registered. CMA sponsorship is only relevant for US donors seeking tax-compliant giving.
20.: Who funds OGF’s programs in Kenya?
A: OGF receives direct funding from donors, partners, grants, and fundraising initiatives. All funds are managed transparently under Kenyan law.
21. How can US donors contribute?
A: US-based contributions may be routed through CMA for tax purposes, but Kenyan programs remain directly funded and managed by OGF.
22. Does OGF fund projects?
OGF may support projects through partnerships, fiscal sponsorship, or collaborative fundraising. Funding availability depends on alignment, capacity, and donor priorities.
23. Are partnerships permanent?
No. Most partnerships are project-based or time-bound, with clear objectives, accountability, and exit or transition plans.
Donations and Financial Accountability
24. How can I donate to Open Gate Foundation?
You can donate through:
• Online donation platforms
• Bank transfer
• Approved in-kind contributions
Details are available on the Donate page.
25. How are donations used?
Donations support program implementation, partner capacity building, safeguarding, monitoring, and operational costs necessary to sustain impact. OGF is committed to responsible stewardship of all funds.
26. Are donations transparent and accountable?
Yes. OGF follows financial controls, internal reviews, and independent audits. Financial reports are available upon request.
Safeguarding and Ethics
27. Does OGF have safeguarding policies?
Yes. We have safeguarding policies covering:
• Child protection
• Protection of vulnerable adults
• Prevention of sexual exploitation and abuse (PSEA)
All partners and staff must comply.
28. How can misconduct or concerns be reported?
Concerns can be reported confidentially through our Whistleblowing & Complaints channels listed on the website.
News, Communication and Data
29. How can I stay updated?
You can subscribe to our newsletter, follow updates on the News & Updates page, or connect through our official communication channels.
30. How does OGF handle personal data?
We respect privacy and data protection. Personal information is handled in line with our Privacy Policy and applicable data protection laws.
Getting Involved
31. Can I volunteer or intern with OGF?
Yes. Opportunities are listed under Partner With Us → Volunteers & Interns when available.
32. Who can I contact for more information?
You can reach us via the Contact Us page for general inquiries, partnerships, or support.