What does Buckner do?
Generally speaking, Buckner ministers to orphans, at-risk children, families and senior adults through residential and community programs. Click here for more detailed information.
Does Buckner work outside Dallas, Texas?
Yes. For the first 75 years of our ministry, Buckner worked only in Dallas. But in the late 1940s, Buckner began to expand both our children and senior adult ministries in response to requests from other cities and locations. Today, Buckner has offices and operations in numerous locations throughout the United States. Click here for a complete list of contacts.
Is Buckner International a religious organization?
Yes. Our mission statement states explicitly that Buckner “adheres to Christian principles.” Since our founding in 1879 by R.C. Buckner, who was a Baptist minister, Buckner has maintained a relationship with the Baptist General Convention of Texas, the largest state Baptist organization in the United States. Buckner also works with the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship, the Baptist World Alliance and other Baptist organizations. However, our partnerships and collaborations are not restricted to Baptist groups, or even exclusively to religious organizations. We work with many community and civic organizations and other non-profit groups, as well as governmental agencies. Buckner is a member of the Evangelical Council of Fundraising Accountability.
How is Buckner governed?
A 27-member Board of Trustees has sole governing authority for Buckner International. Trustees must be active in their local church and terms of service are for three years, with a maximum of three consecutive terms, or nine years before a trustee may serve again.
How is Buckner funded?
Our annual budget is approximately $65 million for fiscal year 2007. The sources of revenue vary, but Buckner is primarily dependent on the generosity of donors, both large and small. Because our endowment is nearly $200 million, we are able to endow most of our administrative functions, meaning that 100 percent of what you give as a donation to Buckner goes directly to those we serve. Click here for giving opportunities . Another major source of income is from fees for services we provide for children and seniors living with Buckner. A small portion of our budget is funded by the Baptist General Convention of Texas.
How did Buckner International start?
Robert Cooke Buckner, a Tennessee-born Baptist pastor, founded Buckner Orphans Home in 1879. At a Sunday school convention in Paris, Texas, Dr. Buckner initiated his first fund-raising effort when he placed one dollar in his hat and passed it among those gathered under a large oak tree. He raised $27, which provided the initial funds what is Buckner International today.
How can I get involved?
Give. Go. Pray. Because those we serve are dependent on Buckner, we depend on the generosity of donors. Click here to make a donation. But one the best ways to give is to go. That means giving yourself. We offer a variety of mission and volunteer opportunities because we know our staff can’t do it alone. Click here for a complete explanation of the ways you help. You’ll find domestic and international opportunities far and wide. And as you give and go, or if you can’t give and go, pray. Pray specifically for the children who need to see Jesus through our ministry. Pray for our volunteers and staff that they would be the hands and feet of Christ; pray that they would be safe as they travel. Pray that God would bestow his blessings on our ministries.
