Center on Applied Research for Vulnerable Children and Families

Empowering you to serve vulnerable children with clarity and confidence.

Resources and support to see better care for children worldwide

Take the guesswork out of orphan care.

Caring for orphaned and vulnerable children is important and meaningful work. Yet the challenges that arise every day and the complexities of determining what’s best for kids can quickly lead to overwhelm and uncertainty. But it doesn’t have to be this way – there is help, and there is hope.

Research-Equip

We’re here to equip and empower you.

We’ve done the work of curating resources and actionable strategies so you can confidently offer better care and see better outcomes for vulnerable children and families. The evidence-informed practices we offer are grounded in both a biblical perspective and comprehensive research so you can create meaningful change.

And best of all, you don’t have to do any of this alone.

From the trusted experts who offer personalized support to the supportive learning communities of other Christians walking the same road, you never have to face the challenges of caring for vulnerable children alone.

Let’s take the next step together…

Improving Care

Evaluate your work and equip yourself with evidence-based practices to achieve better outcomes. Access resources grounded in comprehensive research and biblical perspective so you can foster meaningful change.

Learn More

Family-Based Solutions

Children belong in families, but how do we provide that for the millions of children separated from family care? Gain knowledge and practical tools to join the movement of seeking family care for all children.

Learn More

Research & Practice

Research can help us understand God’s intention for children to be in families, and what happens when they aren’t. Read peer-reviewed research studies and gain insights that can make a practical difference in the way you care for vulnerable children.

Learn More

We share your heart for orphaned and vulnerable children.

We also know how it feels when the desire to help is met with challenges and obstacles that leave you questioning your effectiveness - feeling like progress is out of reach.

We understand the challenges you face because we work in this field too. Nothing you say can surprise us or scare us. This is a safe and supportive community where you can find help and encouragement. Together, we can overcome the challenges, find renewed joy, and create better outcomes for children.

Let us walk alongside you and equip you for the work God has entrusted to you.

Row triangle Shape Decorative svg added to top
Row triangle Shape Decorative svg added to bottom

Insights and Stories of Impact

October 14, 2025

Christianity that’s just a brand doesn’t do much for people … but something does

Here’s a big takeaway from a new study by CAFO published in the Journal of Management, Spirituality & Religion:   Working…

September 3, 2025

Leading with humility: Kenyan team focuses on sustainability in care reform

*Editor’s Note: This is the second article in a series sharing the stories of CAFO members who are actively working…

August 26, 2025

Open doors in a war zone: How one CAFO organization has effectively cared for Ukraine’s children

*Editor’s Note: This is the first article in a series sharing the stories of CAFO members who are actively working…

Row triangle Shape Decorative svg added to top
Row triangle Shape Decorative svg added to bottom

Join us on the journey of learning to serve children and families better…together.

Row rect Shape Decorative svg added to bottom

Stay connected with news and stories of impact in your inbox

English