Franciscan Works

Franciscan Works is a non-profit tax-exempt organization dedicated to the ministry of self-help for children living in poverty in developing countries through education that is rooted in Catholic values and the spirit of St. Francis of Assisi.

We believe that the lack of education is a root cause of many social and economic problems in developing countries.  The shallow pool of human capital, knowledge, technical skills and abilities compromises the potential for development. We utilize a long-term three-part development model to address this.   

• We focus on educating the whole person through a strong Catholic values approach so that education will be used for the benefit of family and community.
• We promote full participation and ownership of local people by endowing them with primary responsibilities in operating mission schools and residential programs.
• We stress the importance of self-sufficiency and entrepreneurship through revenue generating agricultural projects. 

Franciscan Works strives to be a source of hope for people living in poverty.

Our current focus is Liberia in West Africa where approximately 40% of its 3.8 million citizens are functionally illiterate.  This is a place where Franciscan Works can have its greatest impact.  

We began Liberia Mission in 2003.  Liberia Mission, Inc. (LMI), a program of Franciscan Works, alleviates poverty and promotes transformation by providing quality education, a loving home, and life skills training for children and youth so that they may become capable, responsible, and compassionate citizens and future leaders of Liberia. The St. Anthony of Padua School provides a Catholic education for over 380 students in kindergarten through grade 9. The residential program provides a nurturing home for 107 students who would otherwise have difficulty accessing educational opportunities. The St. Michael the Archangel chapel is a gathering place of worship and spiritual formation for the children, youth, and staff of Liberia Mission, Inc. and the surrounding community.

We will partner with organizations around the world that share our mission: to break the cycle of poverty through education…one child at a time.