About Us
Founded in 2004, World Orphan Connection (WOC) is a Colorado-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting vulnerable and at-risk children both locally and around the world. What began as a mission to serve orphans internationally has evolved into a broader commitment to bringing stability, dignity, and opportunity to children and families in need—whether across the globe or in our own communities.
The organization was founded by Betsy Meredith while she was a first-generation, non-traditional student at Colorado State University. Inspired by stories shared by her two younger brothers after returning from a humanitarian trip to Russia with Patch Adams and the organization Maria’s Children, Betsy experienced what she describes as a “lightbulb moment.” Her brothers had spent weeks visiting orphanages in Moscow and St. Petersburg, bringing laughter, joy, and human connection to children through humanitarian clowning. Moved by their experiences, Betsy began developing the ideas that would eventually become World Orphan Connection.
Over the years, WOC has contributed to meaningful projects around the world, including building a soccer field in Somalia, funding a community garden in Sierra Leone to provide food and income, donating a washing machine to an orphanage in Nepal, establishing a resource center in Uganda, and participating in humanitarian clowning missions abroad. These experiences helped shape the organization’s belief that even small acts of compassion can create lasting impact.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the organization recognized an urgent and growing need closer to home and chose to pivot its primary focus toward supporting foster and at-risk youth in Colorado. Today, WOC works to provide practical support and a sense of dignity to children navigating the foster care system. Initiatives include building handcrafted treasure boxes to give foster children a safe and beautiful place to store their belongings as they move from home to home, refurbishing furniture for families in need, and developing the “Tools for Teens” program, which aims to equip foster youth entering trade schools or apprenticeships with the professional tools they need to begin their careers.
Through the support of volunteers and community partners, World Orphan Connection continues to grow its mission of helping children feel seen, supported, and empowered—both locally and globally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is WOC located?
We are based out of Englewood Colorado and serve foster youth throughout the state. However, if you know of kids in need anywhere, inluding internationally, reach out!
Can I get a donation receipt for tax purposes?
Absolutely! WOC is a registered 501c3 and receipt will be provided for any donation (cash, or in-kind).
How can I confirm you are legitimate?
Thank you for asking, and please do confirm. You can verify us through the Colorado Secretary of State and Guidestar. Guidestar will verify our legitimacy when you type in World Orphan Connection in the search bar, but we are still working on enhancing our profile on their site.
Are you supportive of LGBTQ youth?
It’s sad that this question has to be asked- YES, of course we do!
Are you religious based?
While the founder is a deeply spiritual, and feels called to serve kids, no WOC is not affiliated with any religious group.
Do you need volunteers?
We thrive on volunteers and we support those who need or want to do volunteer work for any reason. Email Betsy at WorldOrphanConnection@Gmail.com for information on current project needs, or to offer ideas.