After more than twelve years of devoted service, Larry Johnson is retiring from the U.S. Children of Faith Board. Larry and his wife, Joan, first met Rosie and Anand Thandu through Walnut Creek Presbyterian Church, and from that very first connection, their hearts were moved.
Larry and Joan felt called to support the vision Anand and Rosie had, and so joined the very first sponsors of Children of Faith, supporting one of the original five children—dear “Vamsi”, who today is working overseas and is very successful. Their commitment didn’t stop there. Larry and Joan played a key role in helping Rosie and Anand raise the funds needed to build the first residential building on the Children of Faith campus, furnish it, and provide essential supplies for the children.
Shortly after Children of Faith became an official nonprofit in 2009, Larry joined the U.S. Board, working closely with Rosie and Anand to welcome new supporters and strengthen relationships with longtime donors. He played a key role in budgeting, strategic planning, and even coordinating the Thandus’ U.S. travel for fundraising visits. Serving as Treasurer, Larry brought unwavering dedication and steady leadership—contributions that helped the Home grow to support more than 120 children.
In 2014, Larry and Joan traveled to India to spend over a week at the Home. Reflecting on that visit, Larry shared:
Experiencing everything firsthand was incredible. As we looked around, we couldn’t help imagining what the children’s lives might have been like without Children of Faith. It made a profound impression on us and reminded us just how much our shared efforts have transformed the futures of the children.
— Larry Johnson, retiring COF Board member
Even after their first sponsored child, Vamsi, grew up and moved on, the Johnsons continued to sponsor additional children. Their legacy of generosity will continue to echo throughout the Children of Faith campus for years to come.
We are so thankful for Larry's contribution to our work, he has been a pillar of Children of Faith and a dear friend. He is always ready to help us. The Johnson's early belief in our vision played a crucial role in turning our simple dream into a growing ministry that has now touched the lives of more than 1000 children
— Rosie Thandu, co-founder of Children of Faith
Join Larry and Joan Johnson in making a lasting difference
By sponsoring a child at Children of Faith, you provide nutritious meals, healthcare, education, and the encouragement every child needs to thrive. You’ll be paired with an induvial child, learn about them and receive handmade cards from the child.
