Frequently Asked Questions
Donations
Are donations to Heart for Africa tax deductible?
Yes. Heart for Africa is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in the United States and a registered charity in Canada. This means your donations, including monthly gifts, are tax deductible as allowed by law. We recommend consulting your tax advisor for specific guidance.
Do I get a tax receipt for my monthly donation?
Absolutely. We provide an annual tax receipt summarizing your monthly donations. This makes it easy to keep records for your personal tax return.
Are there any fees when I give monthly?
When you give monthly online, small transaction fees may apply depending on your payment method. Heart for Africa does everything possible to minimize these costs so your gift has the greatest impact.
Can I change or cancel my monthly donation at any time?
Yes. You are in complete control of your giving. You can adjust the amount, update your payment method, or cancel your monthly donation at any time by contacting our team.
How do monthly donations help Heart for Africa?
Monthly donations provide a reliable source of support that allows us to plan ahead and meet ongoing needs at Project Canaan. Consistent giving helps us care for children, grow food, create jobs, and expand educational opportunities.
Is my monthly donation secure?
Yes. We use trusted payment processors and follow strict security protocols to protect your personal and financial information.
Are donations to Heart for Africa considered income taxable?
No. Donations are not considered taxable income to you. Instead, they qualify as charitable contributions and may reduce your taxable income, depending on your situation.
Are pledges to donate legally binding?
No. Making a pledge or setting up a monthly donation with Heart for Africa is not a legal contract. It’s simply a way for you to commit to ongoing generosity, which you can change or stop at any time.
Can I give monthly using my credit card or bank account?
Yes. You can set up your recurring donation using a credit card, debit card, or through bank transfer depending on your country of residence.
Will my donation go directly to help children?
Your monthly donation supports Project Canaan, where children are cared for in a safe, loving environment. It also funds food production, job creation, and education programs that transform lives in Eswatini.
Are there hidden costs in giving monthly?
No. What you see is what you give. Your monthly donation goes directly toward Heart for Africa’s mission, apart from minimal transaction processing fees.
What is the minimum amount I can give monthly?
There is no strict minimum. Every gift makes a difference, whether it’s $10, $25, or more. Together, these gifts create a powerful impact.
Can I dedicate my monthly donation in honor of someone?
Yes. Many donors choose to give in honor of a friend, family member, or special occasion. You can indicate this during the donation process, and we will acknowledge your gift accordingly.
How does monthly giving compare to one-time donations?
One-time donations are always appreciated, but monthly giving provides long-term stability. With steady support, Heart for Africa can budget more effectively and respond quickly to urgent needs.
Will I receive updates about how my donation is used?
Yes. Monthly donors receive regular updates, stories, and impact reports so you can see the difference your gift is making in the lives of children and families in Eswatini.
Community
Are volunteer positions with Heart for Africa paid?
No. All volunteer opportunities with Heart for Africa are unpaid. Whether you’re helping at a U.S. event or serving at Project Canaan in Eswatini, your time and talent are given in service to others.
Are volunteer hours good for college applications?
Absolutely. Many students join Heart for Africa events or service trips to build meaningful volunteer experience. Colleges value applicants who demonstrate community involvement and global awareness.
What types of volunteer opportunities does Heart for Africa offer in the U.S.?
We host local fundraising events, awareness campaigns, and community gatherings across the United States. Volunteers help with setup, guest engagement, event support, and sharing our mission with others.
Can I volunteer with Heart for Africa in Eswatini?
Yes. We welcome volunteers on service trips to Project Canaan in Eswatini. These trips provide hands-on opportunities to serve children, support farm projects, and contribute to sustainable development.
Do I need special skills to volunteer in Eswatini?
No. Volunteers from all backgrounds are welcome. While certain skills such as medical expertise, construction, or teaching can be especially helpful, anyone with a willing heart can make a difference.
How long are the service trips to Eswatini?
Most trips last one to two weeks. They are carefully planned to balance meaningful volunteer service with opportunities to learn about the culture and impact of Heart for Africa’s work.
Is it safe to volunteer with Heart for Africa in Eswatini?
Yes. Your safety is our priority. Volunteers stay in secure housing at Project Canaan and travel with experienced team leaders. We also provide cultural orientation and guidance to ensure a safe and meaningful experience.
How do I sign up to volunteer?
Signing up is simple. You can register online through our website or reach out to our team directly. We’ll provide details about upcoming events in the U.S. or information on joining a service trip to Eswatini.
Why should I volunteer with Heart for Africa?
Volunteering with Heart for Africa is more than a trip or an event. It’s an opportunity to be part of lasting change—whether by supporting local events in the U.S. or serving children and families in Eswatini. Every volunteer helps bring hope and transformation to those in need.
Travel
We want to make your journey as seamless as possible. If you don’t find the answer you are looking for below, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us directly: trips@heartforafrica.org
Financial Information
How much money do I need to raise?
Your trip cost (with flights NOT included) will be based on dates, length of stay, lodging, and ground transportation needs. Total cost and funding deadlines can be found on each trip’s page. You can find trip pages here.
Flights are your responsibility to book, though we are happy to assist you. We will provide dates for departure and arrival to you upon registration. We kindly request that you review your flights with the Trip Coordinator before booking.
How do I raise the funds?
Our staff is here to help guide you with advice and best practices! Fundraising ideas can be found on the fundraising page.
How can donations be made?
- By credit card on your funding page. This link is provided to you after registering for a trip.
- By check made out to Heart for Africa and mailed to:
Heart for Africa
P.O. Box 474
Alpharetta, GA 30009
(To ensure funds are attributed properly, check memo line must include participant name with trip month and year.) - By calling Heart for Africa at (678) 566-1589 to donate via credit card.
- Cash donations can be made, though they are NOT eligible to receive a tax receipt.
All tax receipts are mailed in January (just prior to tax time) for the previous year’s donations.
What is the trip cancellation policy?
We understand circumstances may arise that require you to cancel your involvement in a trip. We are committed to holding a participant’s trip funds until December of the following calendar year to be applied to a future trip in that time frame, less the $250 administration fee. Likewise, in the event Heart for Africa needs to cancel for any reason, all trip funds will be transferred to a future trip to be utilized in the time frame as noted above. For any questions regarding trip cancellations please contact us at trips@heartforafrica.org. Please note that all monies are non-refundable.
If I can't go, can I (and my supporters) get a refund?
Heart for Africa is a 501(c)3 charity and because of this, we cannot refund donations. The funds you raise must be solicited and donated with the understanding that Heart for Africa has complete discretion and control over the use of all donated funds. For the funds donated to qualify as a tax deduction, they are not yours and are not contingent upon your ultimate participation, but rather are Heart for Africa’s funds to be used in furthering its charitable purposes.
Travel
Can I arrive early or stay later?
Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate anyone serving on Project Canaan outside of the scheduled trip dates. If you would like to explore before or after your trip, you will need to make those arrangements. For any self-booked travel plans or suggestions, please contact the Trip Coordinator at trips@heartforafrica.org before finalizing. Please note, you are responsible for meeting the group at the airport or hotel in Africa on the required dates.
Do I need a passport?
Yes! Your passport must have at least 4 consecutive blank VISA pages (excluding the final endorsement page) and must be valid at least six months past your departure date from the country you are visiting. Click here for more information regarding passports.
Do I need a VISA?
A Visa is not required for travel to Eswatini if you are a United States citizen.
Does Heart for Africa require that I have traveler's insurance?
Travel Emergency Medical Insurance is provided by Heart for Africa. However, we recommend that each participant purchase their own additional insurance to cover cancellations, delays, or interruptions due to travel restrictions or illness.
What vaccinations are recommended?
Check with your doctor, health department, or visit the CDC website for more information.
How long does it take to get to Africa?
The average flight to Johannesburg, South Africa is 16-18 hours from the east coast of the US. The drive from Johannesburg to Eswatini is approximately 5 to 6 hours, rest stops included.
How many bags can I travel with?
All airlines vary, so please refer to your booked airline website or your tickets for complete information regarding baggage limitations.
Are there special instructions for traveling with minors?
To travel with a minor, you must complete the form located HERE and have it with you at all times. If the parent/legal guardian of the minor is not traveling, the parent/legal guardian must identify a temporary guardian of at least 25 years of age who is traveling with the minor. For further instructions on traveling with children that are citizens of the United States, click here. Please contact the Trips Coordinator at trips@heartforafrica.org for further support.
Trip Logistics
What will I experience while on a Heart for Africa Trip?
A sample trip description can be found here.
Where will I stay?
We ensure our teams stay in comfortable and safe accommodations in both Johannesburg and Eswatini, enabling you to rest and refresh each evening. All hotels have rooms with two twin beds or a single full bed with ensuite bath.
Will I have a roommate?
During registration, you can request either a double room or a single, private room (at an extra $500 fee). We will do our best to honor all requests, including roommate preferences. We have a policy of no male/female roommates unless you are married or family members.
What meals will be provided?
All food and beverages are provided and are prepared in clean, food-safe environments. As the water is safe to drink, we ask that you bring a reusable water bottle with you to help us conserve resources.
What kind of shopping will I be able to do?
You will have multiple opportunities to shop at Khutsala Artisans on Project Canaan. If time permits, you will visit Ngwenya Glass Shop on the drive back to Johannesburg at the conclusion of your trip.
Currency, Clothing, Communication
Do I need to bring any money? How much?
We encourage participants to travel with a major credit card for purchases and unforeseen emergencies. Except for American Express, credit cards are accepted in South Africa and Eswatini. (Please be sure to alert your credit card company of your travel plans before departure.)
As it relates to physical money, this is totally at your discretion. While we do collect funds at the end of the trip to provide tips for our Eswatini drivers and hotel staff, your participation in tipping is not mandatory.
Where can I exchange currency?
We recommend that you exchange currency to South African Rand, which can be used in both South Africa and Eswatini, at a local bank at least 10 days prior to departing for your trip. Additionally, you can exchange currency at an airport kiosk or ATM outside of customs at the Johannesburg airport.
What should I pack?
Check out our recommended packing list. Additionally, we suggest you pack some clothing, your must-haves, and any medication in your carry-on in the event your checked luggage is delayed or misplaced.
What are the clothing requirements for men and women?
We try our very best to be respectful and sensitive to Swazi culture. Because Swazis value modesty, it is always the best policy. Please dress and pack accordingly. Check out our recommended packing list for further information.
What is the weather like in Eswatini?
Eswatini experiences rainy, hot summers and cold, dry winters. The cooler months are April/May to August with average temperatures around 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 degrees Celsius) in the morning and 77 degrees Fahrenheit (25 Celsius) in the afternoon. The warmer months are September to March/April with average temperatures ranging from 77 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit (25-30 Celsius). Keep an eye on the weather app prior to your trip – search for Manzini, Eswatini or Sidvokodvo, Eswatini.
Can I use/charge my electronic devices?
The short answer is YES – but only with the proper equipment. The electricity at Project Canaan, and throughout Eswatini, is 240 Volts AC. To use electronic devices, you will need the appropriate plug adapter for Eswatini – Type M. You may also need a power converter if your device is not certified for input at AC 100V-240V. Please check the manufacturer’s label to determine the type of input your equipment can handle.
How do I communicate with those back home?
We encourage you to be fully present in Eswatini and “disconnect”, but we realize you might need to communicate with those back home. Always check international rates and coverage with your cell phone provider prior to departure. Eswatini has a modern wireless cell phone system and internet is almost always available at hotels and Project Canaan. We recommend WhatsApp as a reliable means of communication once in Eswatini.
What if I want to bring donated items to leave in Africa?
New or gently used clothing in child, teen and adult sizes are always appreciated. We love donations of coats, jackets, fleece, sweaters, umbrellas, socks and new underwear.
Bubbles, jump ropes, balls, soccer balls, frisbees, nail polish, and stickers are welcome for the homestead and church visits. Check out our Amazon Wish List for specific needs.
Legacy Giving
What is legacy giving / planned giving?
Legacy giving (also called planned giving) means including Heart for Africa in your estate plan, will, trust, or other financial instruments so your support continues even after your lifetime. It’s a way to make a lasting impact without affecting your current cash flow.
How can I leave a gift to Heart for Africa through my will or trust?
You can include a bequest in your will or trust by specifying the amount or percentage you wish to give to Heart for Africa. Your attorney can help you draft the correct language. We also welcome you letting us know your plans so we can express our gratitude and honor your wishes.
What are some non-cash ways I can plan a legacy gift?
Besides including us in your will or trust, you can donate stocks, bonds, mutual funds, retirement accounts, life insurance policies, or other non-probate assets. These gifts often have tax advantages and allow you to use appreciated assets rather than cash.
What are the tax benefits of giving stocks or bonds to charity?
When you give appreciated securities, you may avoid paying capital gains tax on those assets. You also typically get a charitable deduction equal to the fair market value of the stocks or bonds at the time of donation, depending on how long you’ve held them.
Can I designate Heart for Africa as a beneficiary of my retirement account or life insurance?
Yes. You can name Heart for Africa as a beneficiary on retirement accounts (like IRAs, 401(k)s), life insurance policies, or similarly structured assets. This is a simple way to leave a legacy gift that doesn’t go through probate.
How do I donate stock or securities to Heart for Africa?
You or your broker can transfer stocks or securities electronically to our Charles Schwab & Company brokerage account. Be sure to notify us of the number of shares and the name of the stock so we can provide a proper receipt.
Do I need an attorney to set up legacy giving?
For simple gifts (like leaving a bequest in your will or naming a beneficiary), having an attorney review your documents is strongly recommended to ensure legal validity. For more complex arrangements (trusts, annuities, etc.), using a qualified attorney is especially important.
Can I change my legacy gift later?
Yes. Your plans can be updated at any time as your situation changes. Wills, trusts, and beneficiary designations are modifiable. Letting us know of changes helps us honor your intention correctly.
Is there a minimum size gift for legacy giving?
No. Legacy gifts of any size are meaningful. Whether large or modest, every gift helps ensure future stability and supports long-term work for children, education, sustainable development, and community in Eswatini.
What happens after I name Heart for Africa in my will or as beneficiary?
Once the document is legally executed and your gift is activated, Heart for Africa will receive the gift. If you notify us of your intention, we can acknowledge your generosity, plan for the future use of the gift, and keep you posted on its impact.
Can legacy gifts be restricted to a specific program?
Yes. If there is a program or area (like education, orphans, or farm development) that matters deeply to you, you can specify that in your will or designation. If not specified, gifts generally go toward the area of greatest need.
Does including Heart for Africa in my estate plan affect my heirs?
Planned gifts are made from assets you own, but including a gift does reduce what remains for heirs only in the sense that what you designate to charity comes out after your other bequests, debts, and expenses. It’s wise to talk with your family and legal or financial advisor when making plans.
How are legacy gifts used by Heart for Africa?
Legacy gifts help ensure the sustainability of our work at Project Canaan in Eswatini—caring for children, growing food, educating, creating jobs, and enabling social and environmental sustainability. Because they are often made for long-term impact, they can allow for strategic planning and growth.
What is FreeWill and how can it help me plan my legacy gift?
FreeWill is a tool that helps people create a free, legally valid will online and include charities in their estate plans. Using it, you can name Heart for Africa in your will or designate it as a beneficiary for non-probate assets. It’s helpful especially if you don’t yet have an estate plan or want to update one.
Is my legacy gift secure and is my information private?
Yes. At Heart for Africa we treat your wishes with respect and confidentiality. If you use tools like FreeWill, they follow strong privacy and security practices. Your gift intention is honored according to your legal documents.
Who we are
When was Heart for Africa founded?
Heart for Africa was founded in 2006 by Ian and Janine Maxwell. Their vision was to bring hope to the people of Eswatini by addressing hunger, orphan care, poverty, and education.
Where is Heart for Africa located?
Our U.S. headquarters is in Alpharetta, Georgia, and our main field operations take place at Project Canaan, a 2,500-acre development in Eswatini, southern Africa.
Who founded Heart for Africa?
Heart for Africa was founded by Ian and Janine Maxwell. Together, they lead the organization with a passion for serving vulnerable children and building sustainable solutions for the future.
Why was Heart for Africa started?
Heart for Africa was created in response to the deep challenges facing Eswatini, including high rates of HIV/AIDS, extreme poverty, food insecurity, and a large number of orphaned and vulnerable children. The mission is to bring hope through practical and sustainable solutions.
What is the mission of Heart for Africa?
Our mission is to bring HOPE to the Kingdom of Eswatini by focusing on four key areas: Hunger, Orphans, Poverty, and Education. Every program and project is designed to make a long-term, sustainable difference in the lives of children and families.
What is Project Canaan and how is it connected to Heart for Africa?
Project Canaan is a 2,500-acre development in Eswatini, owned and operated by Heart for Africa. It is home to our children’s homes, schools, farms, and job creation initiatives. Project Canaan is the central hub of our work in Africa.
How can I volunteer with Heart for Africa?
You can get involved by joining a service trip to Eswatini, where volunteers work alongside our team at Project Canaan, or by helping at events in the United States that raise awareness and support for our mission.
Can I collect supplies for Heart for Africa?
Yes. Many individuals, schools, churches, and organizations support our work by collecting much-needed supplies for the children and staff at Project Canaan. These supply drives are a great way to make a direct and practical impact.
Besides donating money, what other ways can I support Heart for Africa?
In addition to financial giving, you can host fundraisers, organize supply collections, volunteer at events, advocate for our mission in your community, or join one of our service trips to Eswatini.
How long has Heart for Africa been working in Eswatini?
Since purchasing the land for Project Canaan in 2009, Heart for Africa has been actively building programs to care for children, grow food, create jobs, and provide education in Eswatini.
Meet our team
Who leads Heart for Africa?
Heart for Africa was founded and is led by Ian and Janine Maxwell. Along with a dedicated leadership team and hundreds of local staff in Eswatini, they guide the vision and daily operations of the organization.
What motivates the Heart for Africa team?
Our team is driven by a shared passion to serve vulnerable children and families in Eswatini. Many of us felt called to this work through personal experiences of faith, compassion, and a desire to make a lasting impact.
What is the culture like at Heart for Africa?
How does Heart for Africa’s U.S. team work with the Eswatini team?
Our U.S. staff and volunteers support fundraising, awareness, and logistics, while our Eswatini team carries out the daily programs on the ground. Together, we are united as one team serving the same mission.
Are the staff in Eswatini from the local community?
Yes. Project Canaan employs hundreds of men and women from surrounding communities, providing steady jobs, skills training, and a chance to support their families.
How does the team ensure accountability and transparency?
Our staff follows strong financial and operational standards. We are committed to stewarding donor gifts with integrity and regularly share reports on the impact of your support.
Can I meet members of the Heart for Africa team?
Yes. Donors and volunteers often meet our U.S. team at events across the country, and those who travel to Eswatini for service trips get to spend time with our staff and learn from their work firsthand.
What kinds of backgrounds do Heart for Africa team members come from?
Our team includes professionals from nonprofit leadership, business, education, healthcare, agriculture, and ministry. This diversity of skills strengthens our ability to address complex challenges.
What makes the Heart for Africa team unique?
We are more than an organization — we are a family of people who believe in working together to bring sustainable change. Our unity across two continents allows us to serve with both global perspective and local impact.
How does the Heart for Africa team support one another?
We prioritize prayer, encouragement, and teamwork. Many of our staff describe their work environment as a calling and a community where everyone is valued and supported.
Our financials
Is Heart for Africa a registered nonprofit organization?
Yes. Heart for Africa is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in the United States and a registered charity in Canada. All donations are tax deductible as allowed by law.
How does Heart for Africa use donations?
Donations are used to support our four pillars of impact: Hunger, Orphans, Poverty, and Education. This includes caring for children at Project Canaan, growing food, creating jobs, and expanding educational opportunities.
What percentage of donations goes directly to programs?
The majority of funds go directly toward program expenses that serve children and communities in Eswatini. A smaller portion supports essential administrative and fundraising costs, which help sustain and grow the mission.
Does Heart for Africa publish financial reports?
Yes. We are committed to transparency and make our audited financial statements and annual reports available to the public. These documents show how funds are raised and spent each year.
Who oversees Heart for Africa’s finances?
Our finances are managed by experienced staff and overseen by a Board of Directors. We also undergo an independent audit each year to ensure accountability and compliance with nonprofit standards.
How can I be sure my donation is making an impact?
We provide regular updates, stories, and reports that show how donor gifts are being used to change lives in Eswatini. From food grown on our farms to children cared for in our homes, your giving has a tangible impact.
Can I designate my gift to a specific program?
Yes. While many donors choose to give where funds are needed most, you can also designate your donation toward specific areas such as children’s homes, farming, or education.
Are donations to Heart for Africa tax deductible?
Yes. In the U.S., Heart for Africa is a 501(c)(3) public charity, and in Canada, we are a registered charity. Tax receipts are provided to donors for their contributions.
How is Heart for Africa funded?
We are funded through donations from individuals, families, foundations, and partner organizations, as well as through sponsorship programs, fundraising events, and grants.
Does Heart for Africa receive government funding?
Heart for Africa is primarily supported by private donations. While we may occasionally receive grant funding, the majority of our work is made possible through the generosity of individuals and partner organizations.
How does Heart for Africa ensure financial integrity?
We follow strict accounting standards, maintain financial controls, undergo annual audits, and are governed by a Board of Directors. Our commitment is to steward every donation responsibly.
Where can I view Heart for Africa’s most recent financial statements?
Our audited financial statements and annual reports are available on our website’s Financials page or upon request from our office.
How do administrative and fundraising costs benefit the mission?
Administrative and fundraising costs are essential to keeping our programs running. These costs cover staff support, compliance, donor communication, and the resources needed to sustain long-term impact in Eswatini.
How does Heart for Africa measure impact beyond financials?
We don’t just track dollars — we track lives changed. Our impact is measured by the number of children cared for, jobs created, meals served, and educational opportunities provided.
Why should I trust Heart for Africa with my donation?
For nearly two decades, donors have trusted Heart for Africa because of our transparency, accountability, and proven track record of impact. We treat every donation as a sacred trust to be used wisely for those we serve.