For over 25 years, Christel House has empowered more than 20,000 students with the support and opportunities necessary to achieve their academic and career goals. By providing a comprehensive support system that extends beyond the classroom, our students have achieved remarkable success, rising above their circumstances, and breaking the cycle of poverty. Christel House’s steadfast commitment to every child’s long-term success has created lasting and generational change, proving that with the right support, every child can achieve his or her full potential.
Nathan studied medicine at Stellenbosch University and is currently a working medical doctor. Nathan says that the circumstances he faced, including poverty, crime and violence in his neighbourhood, posed so many risks to him and his family. He is grateful for the opportunity Christel House South Africa afforded him so that he could pursue his dreams.
Sowmya’s story is one of perseverance and opportunity. As a first-generation learner, she grew up in a home where higher education seemed out of reach. Affording college fees felt impossible, and Sowmya feared her dreams of pursuing a degree would remain unfulfilled. With the College & Careers scholarship, Sowmya received the financial support she needed to complete her bachelor’s degree from a prestigious college in Bangalore. Today, she works as a banking operational specialist at ANZ Bank, fulfilling a lifelong dream.
Zinedine says Christel House Indianapolis provided him structure to pursue his dream – becoming an architect. He graduated with a Bachelor of architecture from Ball State University and is now an Architectural Designer.
“My experience as a Christel House student was great,” he says. “I was able to find ways to involve myself with people and programs that benefited my interests, as well as advancing my education.” His experiences are having an impact. “My siblings now see how far the College & Careers program can take someone. My family is proud of what I have been able to do, and I have been able to contribute as well as motivate them to chase a goal.”
Mitzi credits Christel House for instilling in her the confidence to pursue her dreams. That mindset empowered her to launch Vogma, her own shoe business, while working as a community manager for a clothing brand. Christel House’s well-rounded approach—blending academics, values, and socioemotional development—helped her earn a place in UNAM’s prestigious communication program, one of the best in the country. The skills she gained continue to set her apart, both in her career and as a business owner.
Javoni dropped out of high school after having two babies by age 18. She was just three credits shy of earning her diploma. After discovering DORS, Christel House’s adult high school, Javoni met with the staff who immediately contacted her old high school and got her transcripts. “I was enrolled that same day. I knew that this was my time.” Javoni says going to DORS helped build her confidence. She received her high school diploma, then continued at Ivy Tech Community College earning a 3.7 GPA. She studied for the NCLEX (National Council Licensure Examination) for nursing and passed.
84% of Christel House India graduates complete post-secondary education. This is five times the rate of their national peers.
Christel House Mexico graduates are twice as likely to secure formal employment (jobs with benefits) compared to their national peers.
At Christel House South Africa, 82% of graduates qualify for university study through the national senior exam. This is double the provincial average.
Christel House Indianapolis graduates have higher median incomes five years after high school than all but one other public Indianapolis school network or district. They also have the highest earnings among Marion County high schools serving a high percentage of students from low-income backgrounds.
