SIMDEL was built on the belief that every child is created with dignity, purpose, and God-given potential. See how small, targeted action can change a child’s future.
Our mission is to demonstrate Christ’s love by providing the children of Togo, West Africa with basic educational resources and hope for the future.
Our Founders
I want to make children smile
SIMDEL was founded by Simplice and Delphine Noutsougan in conjunction with First Christian Reformed Church in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. As teachers and community leaders in Togo, Simplice and Delphine saw the barriers keeping children from school and believed something should be done about them.
They understood the weight of small obstacles. A missing uniform. A birth certificate not yet obtained. Supplies a family couldn't afford. These were not insurmountable challenges, they were solvable ones.
God was calling them to stand in the gap.
Their response was simple:
Let's remove those barriers so children can stay in school, and grow into the purpose God placed in their lives.
Our History
1. The Beginning
Simplice and Delphine Noutsougan, as teachers and community leaders, began identifying children at risk of leaving school due to practical barriers. With a small group of supporters, they began providing uniforms, supplies, and documentation to keep children enrolled.
2. The Model Takes Shape
SIMDEL's approach, working through trusted local teachers, proved both effective and scalable. As teachers were reassigned to new schools, the model naturally expanded, reaching more students without increasing organizational overhead.
3. Academic Results Emerge
Students in the SIMDEL program began consistently outperforming regional benchmarks. A 100% pass rate on the middle school regional exam — compared to a 70% regional success rate — confirmed what the founders believed: when barriers are removed, children thrive.
4. Torch Audio Bibles Partnership
SIMDEL began partnering with local churches to distribute solar-powered Torch Audio Bibles, extending their work beyond educational support to bring both physical light and the Word of God into homes across Togo.
5. Today
SIMDEL now serves 425 students annually, including 69 middle school scholarship recipients. With 95% of funding going directly to programs, SIMDEL remains committed to efficient, impactful work. One child, one barrier, one life at a time.
OUR FOUNDATION
Faith That Shapes Everything We Do
At the heart of SIMDEL's work is a simple conviction: every child is created with dignity, purpose, and God-given potential. We believe the greatest hope is found in the good news of Jesus Christ. This hope shapes everything we do.
While SIMDEL's work focuses on removing educational barriers, it is motivated by a deeper vision: that children would not only stay in school, but grow into who they were created to be. This foundation shapes how we serve; with humility, care, and a commitment to the flourishing of every child.
“Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.”
Mark 10:14
LEADERSHIP
Our Board & Team
SIMDEL's work is led by people who know the schools, the families, and the communities. Our board and team bring faith, experience, and deep commitment to every child we serve.
Simplice Noutsougan
Founder
Delphine Noutsougan
Founder
Ron De Wit
Board Member
Duane DeBerg
Board Member
Jason Tinklenberg
Board Member
Steve Veurink
Board Member
