Our Story

Roots of Grace is a Jesus-led nonprofit transforming lives in Cambodia through education, discipleship, and community development. With a mission to empower individuals and families, we aim to change generations.

What We Focus On

Our Goals

Spiritual Investment

Jesus is at the heart of everything we do. We are passionate about discipleship and raising up the next generations of leaders in the faith.

Physical Care

We provide essential medical and dental care to those in our programs and serve daily meals to over 80 students, many of whom would not have regular nourishment otherwise.

Emotional Care

We walk alongside Cambodians as they continue healing from the deep scars of the Khmer Rouge. Life is difficult for many in poverty, and we strive to offer daily support and encouragement.

Education

Education is a great tool to reaching the community. We offer free literacy training, tutoring, and instruction in reading, writing, math, and English to equip children and adults.

Get to Know Our Team

Meet the faces behind Roots of Grace! They are leaders who work wholeheartedly & diligently to ensure that our programs run smoothly and effectively.

A Timeline of Growth

  • Milestone 1

    Roots of Grace was founded in a small coffee shop in Battambang, Cambodia by Chris & Heidi Smith and Seng Chhay

  • Milestone 2

    Village Bible Studies were growing, and the needs of the community were apparent

  • Milestone 3

    September 2018 – First class of six students began at Roots of Grace Ministry center

  • Milestone 4

    December 2018 - Chris and Heidi Smith moved to Cambodia

  • Milestone 5

    2020 - Merge with BrightStart Learning, Inc, a non-profit in America, and an NGO in Cambodia, founded in 2013 by Gwen & Vernon Higaki and Mark & Judy Borlin

  • Milestone 6

    2021- Victor and Carole Hartsfield moved to Battambang and joined Roots of Grace

  • Milestone 7

    2022 – Ready to Grow Preschool opens with four students

  • Most Recent Milestone

    New Beginnings residential vocational training program opens with four students