"Utafiti" is a Swahili word meaning "research." We chose this name because it embodies our core mission: transforming research evidence into actionable community health solutions. The name reflects our commitment to evidence-based approaches while honoring our Kenyan roots and making our work accessible to local communities.

Our full name, Utafiti Wellness Research Association, emphasizes our focus on both research ("Utafiti") and community well-being ("Wellness"), highlighting our unique position at the intersection of academic research and practical community health implementation.

We have our headquarters in Nairobi and a regional office in Kakamega County. Our programs currently operate in 15 counties across Kenya, with a focus on Western Kenya, Rift Valley, and Central regions. Our community-based programs are implemented in both urban and rural settings, with particular emphasis on reaching underserved and vulnerable populations.

We are continuously expanding our reach based on community needs and available resources. You can find our specific program locations on our individual program pages.

Utafiti Wellness has several unique characteristics:

• Research Translation Focus: We specialize in making complex health research accessible and actionable for communities
• Community-Centered Approach: We work with communities as partners, not just beneficiaries
• Innovation Pipeline: We actively nurture and develop health innovations from within communities
• Evidence-Based Practice: All our programs are grounded in rigorous research and continuous evaluation
• Multi-Sectoral Partnerships: We bridge academia, government, communities, and private sector

Our unique value proposition is transforming evidence into sustainable community impact through culturally appropriate, locally-driven solutions.

We welcome volunteers in various capacities:

• Field Volunteers: Community outreach, data collection, program implementation
• Research Volunteers: Literature reviews, data analysis, report writing
• Technical Volunteers: Digital health, IT support, website development
• Professional Volunteers: Healthcare professionals, researchers, educators
• Virtual Volunteers: Remote research, content creation, social media

To apply, visit our Volunteer page and complete the application form. We review applications on a rolling basis and match volunteers with opportunities based on skills, availability, and program needs.

Qualifications vary depending on the role:

• General Volunteers: No specific qualifications required - we value passion, commitment, and willingness to learn
• Research Roles: Relevant academic background or research experience
• Healthcare Roles: Professional certification and relevant experience
• Technical Roles: Demonstrated skills in relevant technical areas
• All Roles: Cultural sensitivity, commitment to our values, and passion for community health

We provide training and orientation for all volunteers and staff to ensure they are well-prepared for their roles. Language skills (English and Swahili) are beneficial but not always required.

We use a evidence-based, participatory approach to select communities:

• Needs Assessment: Comprehensive analysis of health indicators and community needs
• Vulnerability Mapping: Identification of underserved and vulnerable populations
• Community Readiness: Assessment of community willingness to engage and partner
• Resource Availability: Consideration of available resources and potential impact
• Strategic Alignment: Alignment with our organizational priorities and expertise
• Partnership Opportunities: Existing or potential partnerships with local organizations

We prioritize communities with high health needs, limited existing services, and strong potential for sustainable impact. Community input and partnership are central to our selection process.

We use a comprehensive monitoring and evaluation framework:

• Quantitative Metrics: Health indicators, service utilization, knowledge improvement
• Qualitative Assessment: Community feedback, case studies, success stories
• Process Evaluation: Program implementation quality and efficiency
• Outcome Measurement: Short-term and long-term health outcomes
• Cost-Effectiveness Analysis: Value for money and resource optimization
• Participatory Evaluation: Community involvement in assessing impact

All our programs have clear indicators and regular evaluation schedules. Results are documented in our annual reports and shared with stakeholders. We also conduct longitudinal studies to assess long-term impact and sustainability.

We maintain strict financial transparency and accountability:

• Program Implementation (65%): Direct costs of running community health programs
• Research & Innovation (20%): Conducting and translating research, developing innovations
• Administration & Operations (10%): Essential organizational running costs
• Fundraising & Development (5%): Costs associated with raising additional funds

We conduct annual independent audits and publish detailed financial reports. Donors can designate their gifts to specific programs or allow us to allocate funds where they are most needed. All donations, regardless of size, are acknowledged and used efficiently to maximize impact.

You can view our detailed financial reports on our Annual Reports page.

Utafiti Wellness Research Association is a registered non-profit organization in Kenya (Registration Number: XXXXXX). Donations from Kenyan residents and organizations may be tax-deductible under Kenyan law, depending on your tax status and the amount donated.

For international donors, tax deductibility depends on the laws of your country of residence. We recommend consulting with a tax professional in your jurisdiction for specific advice.

We provide official donation receipts for all contributions, which can be used for tax purposes where applicable. For corporate donations and large gifts, we can provide additional documentation and reports as needed.