HopeBuilders International

HopeBuilders International transforms lives by providing homes, education, and opportunities for vulnerable children in Uganda—turning vision into lasting change.

One Dream
One Hope
One Life Changed

ONE dream

HopeBuilders International was founded by a group of concerned Christian Australians who were captured by the plight of orphaned children in many central African countries. Their main aim is to be actively involved in breaking the cycle of poverty, for orphans and widows.

ONE hope

Hopebuilders International aims to change the culture of poverty and greed, while building hope through the One that gives us true hope. Changing a generation that will impact and influence future generations.

ONE life changed

Breaking the Cycle of Poverty of a million lives will start with a change in one life. One life can be changed by one decision—a decision to do ONE thing, and that is for each of us to do SOMETHING!

HopeBuilders Journey

From Vision to Reality

What started as a simple vision among friends has grown into a life-changing mission, transforming the lives of orphans in Uganda through faith, determination, and the generosity of countless supporters.

HopeBuilders Inception

The Birth of a Vision

A vision is born when Damian Richmond receives divine inspiration on raising funds through cycling to help orphans and widows in sub-Saharan Africa. He shares it with Rob Doedens, Glenn Dekker, and Johann Poppenbeck who all share a passion for helping orphans in Africa. Together, they launch the campaign that leads to HopeBuilders International.

2007

First Fundraising Ride

The Ride for Change

Damian decides to ride his bike from Perth to Sydney and attempt breaking the trans-Australian bike riding record of 8 days 10 hours and 57 minutes, while raising funds for the orphans and widows of Africa. The ride started on 17 November 2007 and while the record was not broken by Damian – almost $60,000 was raised for the cause.

2007

Land Secured in Uganda

The Village Takes Shape

HopeBuilders International is now a fully registered charity, co-founded by Damian and Johann. Andrew Boonstra is invited to join the team and Johann, Glenn, Rob and Andrew travel to Uganda and they purchase 4 acres of land. This marks the birth of the Village of Hope and the establishment of Uganda HopeBuilders International as a charitable organisation and NGO in Uganda.

2008

Second Record-Breaking Ride

Momentum Builds

Determined to push forward, Damian attempts another cycling record from Perth to Melbourne. This time, he secures the world record, and fundraising goals are exceeded.

2008

First Houses Completed

A Home for Children

By mid-year the first homes are built, and widows and children move into the Village of Hope, marking a significant milestone in the mission to break the Cycle of Poverty.

2009

Expansion & Community Impact

Growing Through Generosity

Through the dedication of volunteers, financial donors, and long-term supporters, schools are built, support projects commence, and HopeBuilders continues to grow. Every contribution whether big or small, has played a part in transforming lives in Uganda.