Kids in Need of Defense
Kids in Need of Defense (KIND) is the preeminent international nongovernmental organization devoted to the protection of unaccompanied and separated children who migrate alone in search of safety. Founded in 2008 by Microsoft Corporation and Angelina Jolie, KIND provides legal services and psychosocial support to these children.
Company facts
- Founded
- 2008
- Headquarters
- United States
- CEO
- Wendy Young
About
Kids in Need of Defense (KIND) stands as a pioneering international non-governmental organization, singularly devoted to the protection of unaccompanied and separated children navigating the complexities of migration. Founded in 2008 by the Microsoft Corporation and Co-Founder and Patron Angelina Jolie, KIND was established to address a critical void in legal services for these vulnerable young individuals. The organization's vision is a world where every child on the move, alone and in search of safety, has access to robust legal representation and unwavering protection of their rights and well-being. Through groundbreaking initiatives and strategic collaborations, KIND is revolutionizing the approach to child protection on a global scale. KIND's innovative model leverages an extensive network of private sector pro bono partners, including hundreds of law firms, corporations, law schools, and bar associations, alongside dedicated NGO collaborators. This powerful alliance enables KIND to provide unaccompanied children with holistic care that encompasses not only essential legal representation but also vital psychosocial support. The organization's dedicated team, with offices and staff across the United States, Mexico, and Europe, works tirelessly to address the multifaceted needs of these children, many of whom have endured significant trauma. Beyond direct legal aid, KIND's comprehensive psychosocial support programming connects thousands of children and their caregivers with critical resources such as medical care, mental health services, educational opportunities, and crisis intervention, fostering their safety and overall well-being. Furthermore, KIND actively partners with governments, international organizations, and the private sector to instill a collective commitment to child protection through training, technical assistance, and capacity-strengthening initiatives worldwide. This commitment extends to addressing the root causes of child migration and ensuring safe reintegration for children returning to their home countries.