Cross Exchange

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Bridges of Hope: Hosting Global Hearts in Nairobi’s Slums

In the heart of Nairobi’s largest slum, where poverty tries to silence potential, we are building bridges—bridges of hope, healing, and transformation. As a host in a Christian exchange program, I have the incredible privilege of welcoming global volunteers whose hearts burn with a desire to serve. Together, we walk the dusty paths of forgotten neighborhoods, not just to provide aid, but to restore dignity, rebuild families, and remind communities that they are seen, loved, and not alone. Each exchange is more than a cultural experience—it's a divine appointment, a chance for people from vastly different worlds to meet at the intersection of compassion and purpose. Through this program, we witness the power of faith in action. Interns and volunteers from across the globe come face to face with both the harsh realities and the extraordinary resilience of life in the slums. As hosts, we become the connectors—offering guidance, cultural insight, and spiritual support, while ensuring that every interaction with the community is rooted in humility and respect. Together, we reflect Christ’s love through service that uplifts, empowers, and brings lasting restoration. Every handshake, every shared prayer, and every restored home becomes a testament that God’s light shines brightest in the darkest places.

Details

  • Frequency of Host's Church InvolvementWeekly
  • Maximum Number of TravelersFour Or More
  • We Like Our Travelers To BePart of the Family! Join for meals and community activities. You’ll feel like a local in no time!
  • I affirm the Cross Exchange Statement of Faith (crossexchange.org/StatementOfFaith)Yes

Types of Help Sought

  • Cleaning / Household Chores
  • Child Care
  • Long Term Au Pair (usually 6-12 months)
  • Cooking & Meal Prep
  • Landscaping / Yard Work
  • Local Church Help
  • Ministry Help
  • Elderly Care
  • Building & Maintenance
  • Pet Care
  • Creative / Social Media Support
  • Language Exchange (practicing the traveler's native language)
  • Technology Support
  • Miscellaneous Physical Labor
  • Other

Specifically, we're looking for help with:

We are standing in the gap for vulnerable children and families through our feeding and school support program. Each day, we strive to provide not just meals, but a sense of stability and love—reminding every child that they are valued and not forgotten. We work with volunteers to cook and serve meals to these precious people that belong to God.

A Brief Overview of Our Faith and Where We Attend Church Services:

We host a vibrant interdenominational faith service that brings together people from various Christian backgrounds—and even beyond—under one purpose: to worship, pray, and serve in unity. Rooted in love and guided by the teachings of Christ, this gathering creates a sacred space where differences in tradition give way to shared hope, healing, and community. In a world often divided by beliefs, our service is a beautiful reminder that faith can be a bridge—not a barrier. All are welcome, all are valued, and together we lift one voice in praise, seeking God’s heart for our community and the world.

Over the course of a normal week, we expect our traveler(s) to contribute about this many hours:

8 to 10 hours a day. Working half day on Saturday and rest on Sunday.

Accommodations / living arrangements for volunteers:

We have a mission house that can accommodate up to 8 individuals with bunk beds. The rooms are shared with inbuilt bathrooms.

Additional Provisions

  • Wi-Fi Available
  • Cellular Service Reaches Our Home
  • Hot Shower
  • Access to Kitchen
  • Private Room
  • Shared Household Meals
  • Public Transportation Available
  • Vehicle Available for Use
  • Accepting Multiple Travelers at a Time

Home Environment

  • Rural
  • City
  • Suburb

Availability

  • January 2025
  • February 2025
  • March 2025
  • April 2025
  • May 2025
  • June 2025
  • July 2025
  • August 2025
  • September 2025
  • October 2025
  • November 2025
  • December 2025

Preferred Length of Stay (choose one or more)

  • 1-2 Weeks
  • 2-4 Weeks
  • Longer Than One Month
  • We're flexible!

Travelers Will Fit in Well Here if They:

Have a heart of service and are driven by the Great Commission.

(Optional) Rules Travelers Must Adhere To:

We do not have a problem if someone consumes alcohol responsibly, but we cannot accommodate any smokers.

(Optional) Link a YouTube video showcasing your work exchange:

Our Staff's Review (Required For Hosts: Please phonetically spell your name)

My brother and co-founder, Trent, and I both had the privilege of joining the call to meet Pastor Simba—and by the end of the meeting, we looked at each other and said the same thing: “Can we go serve with them?” This ministry—and the beautiful family behind it—exudes warmth, kindness, and a deep sense of purpose. Their work is rooted in the heart of the slums, meeting tangible needs and sharing the love of Christ with those often overlooked. And yet, despite the challenging setting of the ministry itself, travelers can rest assured that their accommodations—located about 25 minutes away—are both safe and comfortable. We fully expect travelers to come back with stories of powerful, hands-on ministry experiences: of lives touched, hearts changed, and a joy that overflows. As you serve on the ground and share daily life with this remarkable family, you’ll be immersed in meaningful ministry and authentic community—walking away inspired, encouraged, and deeply impacted by the love and intentionality they live out each day. -Bethany from the Cross Exchange team

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