Adopt a South African Preschool (ASAP)
ASAP’s Model of Success
Uplifting Communities Through Educational Toy Libraries
Adopt a South African Preschool is dedicated to empowering both children and women in underserved areas by creating libraries of educational toys. At these “library training hubs” 30 informal daycares can register to become effective preschools. Daycare owners and their staff are mentored in early childhood education and borrow high-quality, stimulating toys aligned with South Africa’s national curriculum. This ensures that children learn key skills through play. Together, we are building brighter futures—helping children thrive in school and life, while fostering community pride and opportunity for all. We are impacting generational poverty.
The Problem ASAP Addresses
South Africa has an educational and economic crisis. The 2024 national “Thrive by Five” study reports: 80% of 4th graders cannot understand what they read; 40% cannot read at all!
In impoverished communities, most children languish in daycares where they are safe but not stimulated. The foundation for success must be built early because 90% of brain development happens (or not) by age 5.
Our Unique Solution
ASAP funds and maintains Educational Toy Library Support Centers so children who have never held a toy before can learn through play!
Daycare owners learn how to care for and utilize each toy at weekly planning sessions aligned with the national curriculum. They learn business skills, enjoy weekly coaching visits, and love turning their daycares into preschools.
ASAP also stocks an “Incentive Store” with wooden block sets, dolls, balance beams, phonics kits etc. Preschools “earn to own” these items by attending trainings and improving their teaching, their settings, and their administration. Owners and their staff are thrilled to access the resources and mentoring to move well beyond babysitting!
Our unique model prepares vulnerable children to succeed in school and in life. Your donations help overturn generational poverty by leveling the preschool education playing field.
Watch this 3-minute video showing Our Dynamic Solution in Action!
Our Impact
11,807 children are gaining the foundation preschool education to do well in school and in life. That number is more than two miles of children, or 32 football fields lined up end to end!
1,231 women are gaining confidence and skills as teachers, entrepreneurs, and preschool coaches.
242 daycares are becoming effective preschools.
Our Latest Stories and Announcements:
How You Can Help Increase ASAP’s IMPACT!
I - Introduce ASAP. Host a dessert. Invite us to your group, church, or club.
M - Make suggestions to improve the website and our social media presence.
P - Pray for the continued growth, excellence, and impact of this mission.
A - Add ASAP to your regular rhythm of giving.
C - Connect with us for periodic updates by emaling nancy.schongalla@gmail.com.
T - Tell us your ideas for networking and fundraising.