our story
Cherish began when our founder, Joanna Maniti, was just 17. While attending a missionary training in the Philippines, God placed a vision in her heart to build an orphanage. Eight years later, that vision has grown into an international mission, impacting countless children and communities.
In the past two years, Cherish has focused on building a strong team and investing in partnerships. Together, we’ve laid the foundation for long-term impact:
our impact
Every orphanage we build provides a loving, secure environment where children can grow, play, and feel valued. These homes offer stability, nutrition, medical care, and a sense of family giving children the foundation they need to thrive.
Orphanages
Our schools give children access to quality education that opens doors to opportunity. From basic literacy and numeracy to life skills and extracurricular programs, we equip children with the tools they need to break cycles of poverty and reach their full potential.
schools
Cherish works hand-in-hand with local leaders, families, and volunteers to create lasting change. By investing in communities, we strengthen local support systems, create jobs, and inspire neighbors to participate in shaping a brighter future for their children.
community
In 2023, Joanna visited Cherish for the first time. Cherish’s first partnership was with All the World Outreach in Mindanao, Philippines. Our inaugural project, Cherish Hearts Children’s Home, is temporarily on pause as we focus on strengthening our team, building sustainable partnerships, and ensuring the long-term success of future programs.
2016
Joanna feels a calling to go overseas to the Philippines on a mission trip where she does evangelical outreaches. The Lord sows it in her heart to start an orphanage during a morning devotional training with her team.
2017
Joanna attends All Sons and Daughters event where she feels a stirring to help orphans.
2018
Joanna returns on missions and God downloads her calling there.
2020
Joanna starts Cherish and begins scouting out land options
2021
Joanna partners with churches
2022
Joanna visits Philippines for the first time since 2018.
2024
Cherish began as a student project. Today, it has grown into an international nonprofit changing lives across borders — and we’re just getting started.