Frequently Asked Questions

How does ICAF fund its programs?

Our financial support comes entirely from non-government sources. It originates from four main areas:

· Individuals, who share their own blessings so that, together, we can make a real difference to some of the neediest children on earth. They make undesignated contributions which our board directs to the most urgent work.

· Sponsors, who give either $35 per month for a child, or $50 per month to sponsor a Bright Beginnings educator. These funds go to feed, house, and educate specific orphans or educators, a photograph of whom we provide to the sponsors.

· Organizations, such as churches and service organizations, which include ICAF in their mission budgets. As the Bright Beginnings program expands, and Bright Futures comes to fruition, we shall apply for foundation grants, both in the US and Europe.

· Mission trips. Approximately $100 from the cost of each mission trip is a donation to ICAF.

How does ICAF keep its administrative costs so low?

For our founders, there are few redder flags than so-called humanitarian organizations whose administrative costs are sky high. It is a matter of intense commitment and pride that we keep our overhead costs at almost zero. This is because we have no paid administrative staff. Every ICAF director is a volunteer. Our printing, medical supplies & equipment, shipping, —even this Web site—are donated by people who want to help our ministry. Such necessary, but expensive, items as telephone calls, faxes, and postage are underwritten by yet other volunteers. Most of the trips to Romania which our Board members make to set up programs are made with donated airline tickets. The very small overhead we incur is paid for by interest on our deposits. Thus we can say with pride that every penny our donors contribute goes directly to where they intended: to help the children of our mission.

Are my donations to ICAF tax deductible?

Yes. Both cash contributions, child & educator sponsorships, and donations-in-kind are tax deductible as International Children’s Aid Foundation is a not-for profit 501(c)3 charity.

Is ICAF affiliated with a particular denomination?

No. We are non-denominational and receive support from a wide variety of churches.

Does ICAF plan to expand its ministry to other countries?

We believe we should stick with what we know best—Romania—and continue to build critical mass in the areas where we find so many compelling needs, before venturing into new countries.

How can I participate in an ICAF short-term mission trip?

See the Romania Mission Trip page on this Web site, or click here.