Support association
The Mama Christa Foundation (MCF) Support Association is a registered non-profit organisation based in Karlsbad, Germany. Its purpose is to strengthen the work of the Kenyan Mama Christa Foundation (MCF) by providing long-term financial and organisational support.
Together with the Kenyan team, the association helps create sustainable educational and development opportunities for children, young people, families and local communities in the Mombasa and Kilifi regions.
A particular focus is on supporting young people who previously lived at the Shanzu Orphans Home (SOH). Together with the Mama Christa Foundation, we support their reintegration into their families or local communities and continue to accompany them throughout their educational, professional and personal development.
The primary role of the Support Association is to raise funds for the programmes and projects of the Mama Christa Foundation. Our fundraising activities include charity events, crowdfunding campaigns, membership contributions, corporate partnerships, grant applications and a variety of fundraising initiatives.
Our Values
In close collaboration with the Kenyan team, the Mama Christa Foundation's shared mission and guiding principles were developed during workshops in Kenya. They provide the foundation for our partnership and define the organisation's shared values, ways of working and long-term vision.
The work of the Mama Christa Foundation is guided by the principles of children's rights, respect, diversity, equality, inclusion and mutual appreciation.
We are committed to protecting and empowering children and young people while promoting their rights. This includes safeguarding children from violence and discrimination, supporting their right to grow up free from violence, and respecting freedom of religion and belief.
Our programmes are open to children, young people, young adults and their families regardless of gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnic or social background, religion or belief, or physical or mental ability.
Working in Partnership
Reiner and Alexandra Gebhardt, together with our Advisory Board member Tobias Volz, regularly travel to Kenya to strengthen collaboration with the Mama Christa Foundation team, further develop projects together and foster personal exchange. These visits also contribute to transparency, accountability and documenting the impact of our shared work.
Between visits, the Board of the Support Association and the Kenyan MCF team remain in close contact through regular online meetings and continuous communication. Together, projects are planned, implemented and further developed.
The Support Association is also supported by a diverse network of volunteers and professionals from different fields who contribute their expertise on a voluntary basis. Their commitment helps strengthen the long-term development of the Mama Christa Foundation while ensuring that donations directly benefit programmes and projects in Kenya.
Board of Directors
At the General Assembly held on 2nd December 2025, the following Board members were confirmed or elected:
- Chairman: Reiner Gebhardt
- Vice Chairwoman: Alexandra Gebhardt
- Treasurer: Simon Schäfer
- Secretary: Snezana Stark
- Auditors: Elena Umfahrer and Thomas Umfahrer
Board MCF e.V.
Our board members are dedicated leaders who are passionate about our vision.
They enrich our association with their unique qualifications and experiences.
The Executive Board is supported and advised by Advisory Board member Tobias Volz.
1st Chair
Reiner Gebhardt
Together with his wife Alexandra, Reiner has travelled regularly to Kenya since 2010 and has been actively involved in supporting the work of the Mama Christa Foundation for many years.
As Board members of the German Mama Christa Foundation (MCF) Support Association, Reiner and Alexandra work closely with the Kenyan MCF team. Their partnership is built on mutual trust, shared learning and the continuous development of programmes that respond to local needs.
Over the years, they have developed close and trusting relationships with the children, young people, families and the entire MCF team. These personal connections continue to shape their commitment and strengthen the long-term partnership between the German Support Association and the Kenyan organisation.
Reiner and Alexandra also serve as key contacts for donors, supporters and funding partners. Together with the German team, they organise information events, presentations and charity initiatives to raise awareness of the Mama Christa Foundation's work and inspire others to support its mission.
As an engineer and project manager, Reiner contributes many years of professional experience in auditing, organisational development, project management and strategic planning. He is committed to building transparent structures, reliable processes and strong partnerships with the Kenyan team as the foundation for sustainable organisational development and long-term impact.
2nd Chair
Alexandra Gebhardt
Together with her husband Reiner, Alexandra Gebhardt has been actively involved with the Mama Christa Foundation for many years. Working closely with the Kenyan team and the local communities has become an important part of their lives.
Through many years of collaboration, Alexandra and Reiner have developed a deep understanding of the local context, cultural perspectives, and the challenges, strengths and potential within the communities. Their commitment is built on mutual respect, trust and genuine partnership.
As a Business Coach (University of Applied Sciences) with a degree in Social Management, Alexandra contributes her professional expertise in coaching, organisational development, intercultural collaboration and psychosocial support.
Within the German Mama Christa Foundation (MCF) Support Association, she is responsible for communications, public relations, newsletters and social media. She also maintains relationships with donors, partner organisations and supporters, helping to communicate the work and impact of the Mama Christa Foundation in a transparent, authentic and meaningful way.
treasurer
Simon Schäfer
Simon brings with him his many years of professional experience as an accountant and financial controller.
He examines and advises the finances of the association with a professional eye.
In 2018 he traveled to Kenya to get to know the local work and culture better.
Advisory Board
Tobias Volz
Tobias has been advising the German Mama Christa Foundation (MCF) Support Association since his first visit to Kenya in October 2016. His main areas of support include organisational development, capacity strengthening within the Mama Christa Foundation, and strategic advisory services. He also serves as a key resource on international development, education and social policy.
Tobias holds a Bachelor's degree in Social Work and Master's degrees in Applied Ethics and Mediation and Conflict Resolution. He recently completed his PhD with research on restorative justice in cases of sexual violence in Nepal.
With more than ten years of professional experience, Tobias has worked with organisations including the United Nations, the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ) and Bread for the World in Germany, Nepal, Kenya, Myanmar and, most recently, Georgia. His international experience and expertise contribute to strengthening the Mama Christa Foundation's long-term organisational development and strategic direction.