Our story
Nine degrees, and a promise that it shouldn’t be rare.
The Onwunaka family came to the United States in search of better education and economic opportunity. Between them, their three children went on to earn nine degrees. The family understood that an achievement like that should be common, not rare.
For years they quietly supported families in Nigerian villages and watched other children earn degrees and lift their households. But the need kept growing, driven by economic instability, gaps in infrastructure and a lack of proper educational resources.
So the family made its commitment formal. As a 501(c)(3) public charity, The Onwunaka Foundation trains and supports people, businesses and organizations to build a future that is fruitful for the whole community, serving selflessly and sustainably.
Our mission
To design a brighter future for low-income communities in Nigeria, first focusing on Southeastern Nigeria, through investment in education, small businesses and start-ups, infrastructure, and people, strengthening their economic health and sense of community.
Our vision
Communities where modern infrastructure, high educational attainment, robust economic strength and a strong sense of community thrive, elevating lives without isolation, ensuring safety through economic stability, and promoting a culture of mutual trust.
Our SEEDS
A seed planted in its community, so that it bears fruit.
These three values guide every decision we make and every partner we choose.
I
Trust
Trust from the community must be earned. We build it through transparency, support, and listening to the needs of the people we serve.
II
Hope
Hope is how communities grow to new heights. We stay hopeful in our work, share that hope, and back it with diligent planning and execution.
III
Excellence
Service without dignity is demeaning, so everyone we serve deserves our best effort. Excellence opens minds to the possibilities within reach.
Meet the board
Five members of one family, one shared calling.
Our board is five members of the Onwunaka family who came together to serve their home country through a formal, organized foundation. For them, this is not charity. It is a calling.
Chairman
Chibueze Onwunaka, EdD
Leads all of the foundation’s activities with the advice and consent of the board, keeps directors informed, and makes sure every board resolution is carried out as intended.
Secretary
Emmanuel Onwunaka
Keeps every record and document of the foundation, in print and digitally, serves as secretary at board meetings, and files and shares the minutes.
Chief Financial Officer
Gabby Onwunaka, MS
Makes sure every financial commitment is honored and every donation is used for its stated purpose, and reports the finances to the board and the public.
Community Engagement Officer
Stella Onwunaka, RN
Learns each community’s needs firsthand and builds the trusting relationships that point the foundation to projects likely to succeed.
Director of Public Relations
Marilyn Onwunaka, NP
Oversees social media and events, keeps community relations strong, and shares the stories of the people we serve with every stakeholder.