Supporting Families. Strengthening Homes.
Home Initiative is a faith-based nonprofit that supports foster, kinship, adoptive, and biological families with practical help, meaningful relationships, and hope in Jesus.
We equip churches and communities to care well for children and families. Home Initiative Inc. is the 501(c)(3) nonprofit behind Home Initiative and homeinitiative.org.
Shauna’s heart for vulnerable children began in Nairobi, Kenya, where she grew up as a missionary kid. At age 11, she met Sammy, a young boy living in an orphanage during the AIDS epidemic. Their time together—and the news of his passing—left her with a lifelong conviction: every child deserves a family and the hope of Jesus.
Years later, Shauna and Nathan became foster parents and adopted three children. Their family’s experience, along with decades of ministry, grew into Home Initiative: a way for churches and communities to surround children and families with practical care, lasting relationships, and hope.
“Until every child is home. Every child is worth loving.”
Our Story
The Home Initiative Team
Founder Shauna Whidden
Shauna is a chaplain, adoptive and biological parent, and advocate for children and families. She founded Home Initiative to help churches and communities offer practical support and compassionate care.
Contact: shauna@homeinitiative.org
Nathan Whidden
Co-FounderNathan is a pastor, husband, and father with more than 22 years of ministry experience. He cares deeply about families, discipleship, and helping people live out God’s Word.
Contact: nathan@elkhartcalvary.org
Mentorship Program CoordinatorRocio Reyes
Rocio brings a deep passion for children and families. She supports mentorship efforts, helps build resources for families, and serves through her local church.
Contact: rocio@homeinitiative.org
Join us in making room for every child.
Practical care, faithful partnerships, and a place to belong.