Dear Friend,

Thank you for your interest in Coptic Orphans and for visiting our site today. I know that here, you will find stories that will inspire and encourage you. You will learn more about the mission and history of Coptic Orphans, an international, Christian development organization committed to unlocking the God-given potential of fatherless children in Egypt through the transformative power of education.

It is with humility and gratitude that I describe how Coptic Orphans was founded over 35 years ago. During a visit to Egypt while on a tour of duty with the U.S. Department of State, I was shocked by what I encountered: Coptic children living in orphanages because their fathers, the primary bread-winners, had died and their mothers had no means by which to feed or clothe them.

Like many of you, my parents had left Egypt for the United States in search for a better life. So, when I witnessed the crippling poverty these innocent children were enduring, I felt an immediate and overpowering need to do something. I could not just walk away.

Deep down, I knew if it weren’t for God’s grace and my parents’ determination, their lives could have been mine.

So I recruited a few friends to join me in pooling funds to send to the orphanage each month. With this modest amount, we could ensure the 45 girls who lived there had their basic necessities taken care of.

But something followed which I did not expect: in what seemed like no time, our work gained enormous momentum. More and more people wanted to contribute: friends, family, co-workers, neighbors, and even complete strangers. I was simply astounded by the number of people who were so willing to give, not only of their hard earned dollars, but also of their time, resources, expertise, and so much more.

Today, Coptic Orphans has reached over 86,000 children. With truly inspired donors and sponsors like you, as well as dedicated teams in Egypt, Canada, U.S., U.K., and Australia, Coptic Orphans has stood with thousands of fatherless children and countless widowed mothers throughout Egypt.

Once again, I cannot overstate the power of this movement we have built: it is a legacy for tomorrow by which we, as Copts, collectively bless our children and pass on the heritage of a Christ-centered people and our Mother, the Church.

So, it is with joy and optimism that I write to invite you to join us in making these transformations sustainable. There are so many ways to get involved: become a sponsor, help a fatherless family with their urgent needs, attend one of our galas, or just sign up to receive our newsletter. To stay informed on our work, you can also read our blog, visit our Youtube page, or follow us on social media (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram). We would also love to hear from you, so do not hesitate to share your thoughts.

Thank you friend and may God always bless and inspire you.

One Body in Christ,
Nermien Riad

Nermien Riad
Founder and Executive Director