Meet Joseph F. Jarbah, Our Founder & President:
At the heart of Champion Kidz's inspiring mission is Joseph Fatinyan Jarbah, our founder and president. His life story is a remarkable testament to resilience, hope, and unwavering dedication. Joseph's journey isn't just the backbone of our organization; it's a living example of the incredible difference one person can make when driven by compassion and a deep understanding of human potential.
The Genesis of a Mission: From Hardship to Hope.
Joseph was born in Liberia, but his childhood was tragically disrupted by civil conflict, forcing him to spend 13 formative years as a refugee in the Ivory Coast. This intensely personal experience, marked by displacement, vulnerability, and a constant struggle for basic needs, shaped his unwavering commitment to helping others. It gave him profound empathy for those who are often overlooked and stirred an intense determination to stand up for the voiceless. He knows all too well the urgent need for support among those whose lives have been turned upside down.
Turning Experience into Action: The Birth of a Lifeline.
After resettling in the United States, Joseph channeled his personal story into a powerful mechanism for change. With a constant commitment to give back to his homeland, he founded Children's Welfare International (CWI) in 2008.
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, CWI has become a lifeline for orphans and vulnerable children, providing essential support and, most importantly, a pathway to education for over 600 young lives. Through CWI, Joseph has devoted himself to addressing critical needs, shining a much-needed light of hope where it often seems absent.
The Journey to Champion Kidz: A Vision Unlocked:
After years of hard work, Joseph had a life-changing realization. While the term "welfare" captured part of their mission, it fell short of expressing the incredible potential and strength he saw in every child. He understood that each young person, no matter their past struggles, had the natural ability to get by and truly flourish, conquer challenges, and reach for greatness. Joseph was convinced that every child carries within them the seeds of their own success, just waiting for the right support to help them grow. This crucial insight led to a transformative and inspiring shift.
In 2025, Children's Welfare International proudly rebranded as Champion Kidz. This new identity is more than just a name change; it’s a bold statement of purpose, embodying a mission to actively empower, uplift, and celebrate every child's inherent resilience and untapped potential, encouraging them to become champions of their own lives, families, and communities.
A Legacy of Hope and Empowerment:
Under Joseph F. Jarbah's visionary and compassionate leadership, Champion Kidz has become a beacon of hope and change. It’s not just an organization; it’s a movement dedicated to unlocking the incredible potential in every child. Joseph’s remarkable life story and relentless commitment highlight the idea that with deep compassion, true empowerment, and fair opportunities, every child can shape a future that isn’t limited by their past struggles but instead is filled with the limitless possibilities of becoming a true champion.
