Moto Hope Mission Inc. is a Minnesota-based non-profit, charitable organization that was founded in 2011, to oversee the planning and financing of Center and School Academy. Moto Hope Mission-Kenya, a separate non-profit organization in Moto, Kenya, was also established by capable local citizens to manage new construction and the operations of the center's various programs all on a volunteer basis. Fr. Francis' first-hand knowledge of the impact of education in Kenya and his deep-seated love for his native people spurred in him a burning desire to bring these two teams to work together.
Fr. Francis grew up in a family of 12 in Moto Village, Kenya, where Moto Hope Center and School Academy is located. As a Kenyan youth, Francis was exposed first-hand to the realities of a good education. His father was a teacher, and his mother was extremely supportive. His whole family was well aware of the immense value of a good education and community empowerment.
On a trip to Florida in February 2011 Fr. Francis with a dear family friend Sandy Baldwin pondered on their passion in life; reaching out and empowering others. An urgent urge to act on the said passion grew irresistibly stronger. As they savored the breathtaking horizon of the Pacific Ocean in the rich warmth of Florida's February away from cold Minnesota, they put their vision into action. They rolled out plans to start fundraising with the noble intention of making a difference in the lives of the wonderful people of Kenya.
Sandy who had initially made several trips to Kenya and Tanzania had a deep understanding of just how vital empowering the people of Africa is. She is a wearer of many hats; she is a retired teacher, a loving mom and grandma from St. Cloud, and the able co-founder of Moto Hope Mission Inc. Fr. Francis and Sandy enjoy the unwavering support of strong, qualified, and cooperative volunteer board members. They have worked very hard and realized the commendable success of this non-profit organization thus far.
A seed was planted, and it is growing. You are invited to help it flower to fruition and spread its branches of hope and make a difference.
