Our Mission
The City of Refuge International’s primary purpose shall be to directly serve the people of the Democratic Republic of Congo (D.R.C) through the love of Christ by:
Our Team
We are composed of many people working together and reaching out in practical ways to touch the lives of the Congolese people. Our current board and staff members are Richard Kitumba, Laurene Bates, Chelsa Hugo, Randy Stouts, Crissy Yarborough, and Heidi Gaines.
Richard Banza Kitumba
President
Richard was born and raised in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. At the age of 21, he moved to North America. He attended the University of Oregon, where he earned a BA in Family and Human Services, a Master’s degree in Public Administration, and a Graduate Certificate in Non-profit Management.
With a passion to empower the people of the Democratic Republic of Congo, he founded The City of Refuge International, Inc. in 2007. Since then, the organization has helped thousands of people in the DRC. Richard has provided motivational speaking and Christian ministry in Europe, Africa, and North America. He also offers services to schools, businesses, and small groups. He currently lives in Springfield, Oregon with his three children.
Crissy Yarborough
Chairman of the Board
Marketing/Fundraising Coordinator
Crissy is a registered nurse. She has worked at McKenzie Willamette Medical Center for more than 29 years. She grew up in Springfield, Oregon, and continues to live there with her husband and two sons. Her passion for social justice has led her to market and start a fundraiser for City of Refuge International (CORI). She is also passionate about child sponsorship, issues surrounding hunger, and women’s empowerment. Aside from that, Crissy developed Emilie’s Tea in honor of Emilie Kabamba Bulungo who, before her passing, was an integral part of CORI. Emilie was the mother of the founder of our organization. She worked tirelessly to help the people of the Democratic Republic of Congo. To honor her, women gather twice a year and raise money for CORI.
Judy Borgstahl
Treasurer
Judy was raised in a rural area of South Springfield, Oregon. Currently, she resides in Creswell, Oregon, with her husband. In addition to having four children, she also has three grandchildren. She has worked for Lane County, Oregon, for 31 years and has now retired. After retiring, Judy enjoys traveling, camping, and fishing with her husband. Judy is passionate about advocating for the less fortunate and the suffering.
Get in Touch
Let us work together in helping people in DCR. Reach out to one of our members today to learn more.