Michael Fortson: Faithful to God, A Hero to Many

Michael Fortson lives out the words of Jesus in Matthew 25: “Whatever you did for one of the least of these… you have done for Me.” His life is a testimony to quiet obedience, deep compassion, and unwavering trust in God. Michael doesn’t just talk about faith; he lives it in action every day.

As co-founder of Neema Village in Arusha, Tanzania, Michael followed God’s call to care for the most vulnerable — abandoned babies, struggling mothers, and families in crisis. He believes every child is fearfully and wonderfully made. He believes no mother is beyond hope. He believes God’s love can restore any story.

In 14 years, more than 500 babies have been saved, 169 women have been launched into small businesses, and over 700 Maasai grandmothers have been trained to help save lives in childbirth. He has done it all as a volunteer — simply loving and serving like Jesus while giving God all the glory.

As many of you know, Michael has been diagnosed with stage four pancreatic cancer. Many have asked how to help. One meaningful way is to ensure the ministry he gave his life to will continue.

Our goal is to raise $1 million in his honor — to let Michael see, while he can, that Neema Village will carry on, that lives will keep being saved because of his faithful “yes” to God, and that his legacy of faith will continue for generations to come.

As 1 Corinthians 15:58 reminds us: “Your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” Michael has lived this truth, and his impact continues through every life touched.

Michael continues to run his race faithfully. He is a true hero. Now we carry the torch forward — for him, and for Him.

To learn more about Neema Village, visit neemavillage.org