Where We Began

ST. JOSEPH ORPHANAGE/SCHOOL - OGOJA, NIGERIA 

Our founder, Tom Rutkoski, founded St. Joseph in 1999, after witnessing, during a visit to Ogoja, so many impoverished children with no one to care for them. Over 21 years, we housed over 1,000 children and educated more than 5,000 children, many of whom are now adults who are working, providing for their families, and active in their local communities. Some are now discerning vocations or in seminary, and some have returned to teach at St. Joseph School.

Our mission in Nigeria is now completed as the school and orphanage are doing well and is now under the care of the Diocese of Ogoja.