Keino, Kip

Taking abandoned and orphaned children into their home in Kenya had never been on the agenda for Kip and Phyllis Keino, an Olympic record-holder and a nurse. But when friends died and left young children parentless, the Keinos took in the newly orphaned kids.

Word quickly spread about what the world-famous runner and his wife had done; other orphans began appearing on their doorstep. The Keino farm blossomed into a hustling, bustling home for dozens of children (including seven of their own).

Kip, one of the greatest runners of all time, has focused his energy on the farm and his small sports shop rather than capitalizing on his fame. (Described as one of the greatest runners of all time, his performances in the 1968 and 1972 Olympic Games led to a record in the 1500 meters that held until 1984.)

Phyllis uses both her training as a nurse and her skills as a mother to raise the children so well that she’s been described as a saint. Together the Keinos manage the farm itself.

Not being rich themselves, the Keinos have been assisted by agencies and donors who help with the orphanage’s expenses in feeding, clothing and educating the children, and providing them with medical care.

The renowned athlete and the nurse are performing an Olympic feat in their own house--The Kip Keino Children’s Home has taken in over a hundred young Kenyans.