Our Story
Founded in 2014 by Siobhan Nash-Marshall and Rita Mahdessian in Glendale, California, the Christians In Need Foundation (CINF) emerged as a response to the dire circumstances faced by Christians in the Middle East and the Caucasus. Initially aiming to bring Syrian Christian students to the United States for education, CINF pivoted to sending volunteer teachers to these regions when visa applications were denied. This shift marked the beginning of a transformative journey.
In the summer of 2015, CINF sent its first volunteer teacher to Tashir, Armenia, where she taught English to 150 children at the Diramayr Hayastani Ketron summer camp. This experience not only enriched the lives of the students but also equipped the volunteer with essential skills in leadership, communication, and community engagement. Recognizing the mutual benefits of this initiative, CINF decided to focus its efforts on strengthening both Eastern and Western Christian communities.
By 2017, CINF had expanded its reach to Artsakh, sending project leaders to teach English, Logic, and Ethics. The success of these programs solidified CINF's commitment to this ancient Christian enclave, fostering deep connections between volunteers and local communities. In 2019, Italian volunteers joined the American team, further enhancing the collaborative spirit of CINF's mission.
In 2021, CINF established the Antonia Arslan Armenian-Italian Hamalir, a testament to its dedication to community-based educational programs. By working directly with local partners, CINF tailors its initiatives to address the unique challenges faced by these communities, ensuring that Middle and Near Eastern Christians are equipped to navigate their present and future.