The Eric D. and Steven D. Hovde Foundation was founded in 1998 with two principal objectives: to assist the neglected, abused and vulnerable children of the world, and to fund research towards a cure for Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Its current focus is centered on the former. Eric’s extensive travels in developing countries alerted him to a population in desperate need of assistance. This group, the homeless children of the world, live without consistent shelter, nutrition and the general securities of a family home. Eric and his brother Steve were determined to make a difference in the lives of some of the world’s most vulnerable children. After considerable research and with the guidance of World Vision, they selected Mexico City as the site of the first Hovde House, a home that would go on to provide transitional housing and supportive services to 50 homeless children.







Today, the Hovde Foundation has two operating Hovde Houses in Latin America and three in development in Africa. The goal is to build twenty Hovde Houses over the next twenty years, adhering to the following philosophies:







Applying leverage and business approach to philanthropy:  Our preferred project model, similar to the Ronald McDonald House concept, is to finance the construction or acquisition of a suitable home and retain title to the land and building. We team up with established local partners who are responsible for operations of each Hovde House. Hovde covers operational costs of the home over its first 2-3 years and then decreases funding as the local organization becomes sustainable without Hovde’s support, often through outside fundraising and development of revenue generating businesses that support the project. At such time, and assuming the local partner has fulfilled its role dutifully, Hovde will transfer ownership of the land and building to the partner organization at no cost.







Active social investing: We consider ourselves active social investors, not just donors. Taking a seat on the board of each partner organization, we often assume a leadership role and assist with fundraising, networking, and operational support. Depending on the partner’s strengths and experience, we help with project design, development and implementation through construction. Additionally, we will allocate resources to the development of local for-profit businesses geared to subsidize each project. This is a key factor to long-term success.







Selection of suitable partners/locations: While there is great need to help children in every country, including the USA, we carefully select countries that are open to international involvement, not hostile toward American investment and where rule of law, children’s rights, and property rights are respected. Critically important in project selection is identifying an appropriate local partner who shares our approach to philanthropy with ample experience working with children.

To express interest in the Hovde foundation, please contact Jeff Boyd, the Executive Director.