As Our Own

As Our Own is a U.S.-based nonprofit organization dedicated to rescuing and caring for vulnerable children, primarily those born and living in red-light districts in India. Founded in 2007 and headquartered in Houston, Texas, the organization focuses on rescuing children from exploitation, providing long-term care, education, and prevention efforts aimed at breaking cycles of poverty and enslavement.

Mission and Activities

As Our Own’s mission centers on the rescue of vulnerable girls and children from exploitative and dangerous environments. The organization offers comprehensive aftercare and prevention programs that address not only physical safety but also emotional healing and educational advancement. Children welcomed into the As Our Own family receive holistic care, including high-caliber education through college, enabling them to reach their full potential and break multi-generational patterns of poverty and exploitation[1][4][5].

Programs

• Rescue: Targeted efforts to remove children from the red-light districts and other vulnerable situations.
• Aftercare: Providing shelter, healthcare, education, and emotional support to rescued children.
• Prevention: Community outreach and education initiatives designed to prevent the exploitation of children before rescue becomes necessary[1][5].

Impact

As Our Own has operated for over 17 years, making a significant impact in transforming the lives of children trapped in cycles of exploitation. Their holistic care model nurtures the physical, emotional, and educational needs of each child, empowering them to become self-sufficient and positively influence their communities. The organization’s work has ripple effects, improving outcomes for families and communities beyond the immediate rescue contexts[2][5].

Governance

The organization’s governance includes a board of directors composed of individuals from diverse professional backgrounds. As of May 2024, key board members include Ralph Borde (also a top leader in the organization), Steve Mason, Leila Durchholz, Suzanne Mazur, Jeff Ostermann, Jeff Williams, Ceci Torn, and Chris Torn[2].

Financial Overview

According to their 2023 financial filings, As Our Own recorded total revenues of approximately $2.75 million and expenses of approximately $3.14 million, indicating a deficit of approximately $392,000 for that fiscal year. The organization is recognized as a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) public charity under the categories of International Development and Relief Services[3][4].

As Our Own exemplifies a dedicated international humanitarian effort that combines rescue, care, and education to create sustainable change for vulnerable children, primarily in India’s red-light districts, while operating from the United States.