WHO WE ARE
Whole Child International
Whole Child International, founded in 2004 by social entrepreneur and Ashoka Fellow Karen Spencer, is dedicated to enhancing the quality of care in resource-limited environments while raising awareness about the significance of relationship-centered care. The organization’s mission is to foster optimal child development by promoting a relationship-centered approach that elevates care quality across diverse settings.
Since 2006, Whole Child designed, implemented, and evaluated comprehensive interventions in various contexts. These initiatives include university-level diploma courses, enhanced training materials, policy reforms, and the practical application of evidence-based best practices in childcare.
By engaging a broad spectrum of stakeholders in the child protection system—including government policymakers, academics, supervisors, and direct care providers—Whole Child strengthens governmental capacity and drives sustainable improvements in childcare practices.
Our mission is to elevate the quality of care for children worldwide.
We value:
Technical Excellence
We make our difference by creating high-quality programs and materials based on the latest research and evidence across multiple fields.
Sustainability
We focus on sustainability of results creating capacity within existing government staff and departments as well as local partners. Solutions are financially sustainable and culturally relevant and appropriate.
Learning
We take calculated risks; we learn from our mistakes; and we are not afraid to fail and try again.
Innovation
We build on existing best practices to create better solutions.
Evaluation
We inculcate a culture of evaluating our program effectiveness and impact. We evaluate all aspects of the program’s quality to contribute to the global evidence base while continually improving our program.
