A Spark from Jinja Uganda
Ripples from the Well was not born out of a grand plan, but from a series of profound and divine human connections, tragedy, and support. Our founders, Jerry and Joni Heiderscheit were business owners and successful mortgage lending professionals in the small city of Hutchinson, Kansas. In 2017 Jerry started to build a relationship with a man in Jinja, Uganda who was working with a team to care for a handful of under-privileged kids in a primarily Islamic area. Initial involvement in Jinja was simple yet powerful – providing basic necessities like food, bedding, and educational resources, coupled with spiritual support through Bibles and other materials while.
The organization's foundation was laid by friends from church and the local community, united by a shared passion for the welfare of Ugandan children. Their commitment was the initial thread that wove the fabric of Ripples from the Well, making small financial commitments as needs arose.
Tragedy and Transformation
July 2019 marked a pivotal moment for the team. A heart-wrenching accident saw six children fall into a septic well on their way home from school. Three tragically lost their lives, leaving the community in grief and the other three in critical condition. This calamity, however, ignited a beacon of hope and solidarity. The generous assistance of local friends, providing emergency medical and financial aid, became the cornerstone of a burgeoning vision. The survival and thriving of the three children was a testament to the community's collective spirit – a spirit that became the bedrock of Ripples from the Well.
Initially, Ripples from the Well tread cautiously, providing basic support amidst skepticism. The accident at the well, however, was a turning point, compelling Jerry to visit Uganda personally. This visit wasn't just about adding accountability but also about building a bridge of trust and understanding with the local community. After emotions cleared and many of the people involved prayed over the next steps of our involvement, In late July we started the formation process of a 501c3 non-profit with a game-plan and vision of a stable, accountable, and Christ-centered mission.
Ripples from the Well's mission is encapsulated in a single, powerful statement: "To care for vulnerable children and cultivate self-sufficient communities that produce disciples for Jesus Christ." This mission goes beyond mere assistance – it's about empowering communities to be reliant on their faith and capabilities, rather than becoming dependent on external aid.
Growth and Challenges
In March of 2020 we received our Letter of Approval from the IRS officially recognizing Ripples from the Well as a 501(C)(3) nonprofit. Receiving nonprofit status at the onset of a global pandemic presented unprecedented challenges. However, Ripples from the Well stood resilient, not just surviving but thriving against all odds in a way that only God can provide. The establishment of a Child Sponsorship program marked a significant stride in their journey.
Looking ahead, Ripples from the Well envisions a future where it continues to expand its reach, helping more communities become self-sufficient and nurturing disciples of Jesus Christ. In October 2023, the organization evolved into an International Non-Governmental Organization (NGO), paving the way for broader partnerships and opportunities.
Ripples from the Well started as a small wave of compassion in Jinja, Uganda. Today, it stands as a testament to what faith, resilience, and community can achieve. From the depths of tragedy rose a beacon of hope, creating ripples that continue to extend far beyond the well.
