About – ACRUG

About Advocacy for child relief (ACR)

Advocacy for child relief (ACR) is an independent, nonpartisan, non-governmental organisation which is incorporated under the laws of Uganda. Founded in 2015 by a group of young Ugandan children wellness activists and professionals in response to the ever-increasing vulnerability and poverty in children and families they live in. ACR is an organisation that passionately believes that every child has the right to survival, protection, education, and a right to have their voice heard so that they can live a meaningful and purposeful life.

We are a child-focused organization committed to promoting and protecting the rights of marginalized children by improving their quality of life and strengthening the resilience of their households and communities.

Through child rights awareness and advocacy, research and documentation, capacity building, and community-driven interventions, we work to ensure that every child grows up in a safe, healthy, and supportive environment.

👉 Together, we can create a world where every child thrives.

Our Mission

To improve the quality of life for the marginalized children and their households through child rights awareness and advocacy, research and documentation, capacity building, and community-driven interventions.

Vision

A world in which children’s rights are respected, protected, and fulfilled

Our Core Values

Child-centered approach
Equity and inclusion
Accountability and transparency
Community participation
Evidence-based action

Areas of interest

Human rights
Child protection
Health
Education
Economic Empowerment

Our Approach

Centers on the best interests of the child
Promotes community participation and ownership
Leverages research and data for advocacy
Builds strong partnerships for sustainable impact

About us

ACR’s Core Objectives

To advocate for the promotion, protection, and fulfillment of child rights at local, national, and regional levels
To influence policies, laws, and practices that safeguard children from abuse, neglect, exploitation, and all forms of violence.
To strengthen the capacity of community structures, institutions, and stakeholders
To empower families and communities with the knowledge, skills, and resources
To enhance institutional capacity, governance, and accountability systems
To establish and strengthen strategic partnerships and networks
To conduct research and documentation on child protection issues,

Frank Kiyingi

About the Founder

Frank Kiyingi is the visionary founder of Advocacy for Child Relief (ACR), driven by a deep passion for protecting vulnerable children and strengthening communities. Growing up and working within communities where children faced neglect, abuse, and limited opportunities, Frank witnessed firsthand the systemic barriers that prevent children from reaching their full potential. These experiences inspired him to dedicate his life to child advocacy and community empowerment. With a strong background in health, child protection, and community engagement, Frank has championed initiatives that combine evidence-based research with grassroots action. His leadership has been instrumental in building partnerships, empowering communities, and creating sustainable solutions that improve the lives of children and their families. Under his guidance, ACR continues to grow as a trusted organization committed to ensuring that every child is protected, heard, and given the opportunity to thrive.

Children Reached

12,000+

Households Supported

1,200+

Community leaders & Stakeholder Trained

300+

Documented Case

50+

Become a Volunteer

Volunteering with ACR changed my perspective completely. I came to give my time, but I left with so much more — a deeper understanding of children's rights and a lifelong commitment to this cause.

Sarah Nakato Former Intern, Kampala

As a donor, I always worried whether my money was truly making a difference. ACR's transparency and regular updates gave me complete confidence. I've been giving monthly for two years now."

James Omondi Monthly Donor, Nairobi

ACR came to our school and the impact was immediate. Teachers were better equipped, children felt safer, and parents became more involved. It's real, ground-level change.

Margaret Atim Primary School Headteacher, Gulu

I joined ACR as an intern during my master's program in human rights. The experience was hands-on, meaningful, and professionally invaluable. I'd recommend it to every student in this field.

David Ssemwogerere Graduate Intern, Makerere University

Our organization has partnered with ACR on research projects for three years. Their team is professional, data-driven, and deeply passionate about child welfare. They are a model NGO

Dr. Amina Hassan Research Partner, UNICEF Uganda

Before ACR came to our community, we didn't know how to talk about child abuse or where to report it. Now our children are confident, informed, and protected. We are forever grateful.

Grace Amongi Community Mother, Lira District