The U.S. Kupenda Advisory Board is an informal group of respected individuals that share their knowledge, experience, and guidance in helping the organization to think strategically in key areas.
Andrew Bauer
Andrew is the brother of Kupenda Founder and Executive Director, Cynthia Bauer, and is a full time youth minister for Hope Community Church. In his spare time, he also acts as a producer/videographer and is responsible for the video production of Kupenda . Andrew and his wife, Kate Bauer, have organized and directed numerous large group volunteer trips to Kenya. Since its foundation, Andrew has been an integral part in helping with Kupenda’s vision and direction.
Sandra Bauer
Sandra is a retired gifted and talented (enrichment) education teacher. She is also the mother of Kupenda’s Founder and Executive Director, Cynthia, as well three other children–Minna, Andrew, and Julie-Ann. In her role as a teacher, she has organized large donations of school supplies to the special needs classrooms in Kenya. Additionally, her experience working for H&R Block helps her to ensure that Kupenda’s books are accurate. She often collaborates with an accountant and the Executive Director to submit annual IRS documents. She is a great asset in assisting the organization with tracking its income and expenditures.
Anthony (Tony) Maranto
Tony is an environmental scientist and professor. He currently supports environmental research and management initiatives for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the U.S. Army. He has served in leadership positions on other non-profit boards, supported grant application development, and has a son with autism. His past experience on the Kupenda Board of Directors has brought valuable insight to our organization since 2005.
Rev. Randy Wilbur
Randy is a pastor. He is also uncle to Founder and Executive Director, Cynthia Bauer. Since he is a pastor, he is responsible for the spiritual aspects of Kupenda and church relations. He has been to Kenya where he worked daily with local pastor, Rev. Robert Mangi. He led the first Pastors’ Workshop on how congregations can help special needs children. He also spoke at other churches and gatherings while in Kenya.