A group photo with the children at Casa Hogar El Amor De Dios from The RUDY Foundation Humanitarian trip to Arequipa, Peru in March 2025

 

Welcome to The RUDY Foundation

We’re Mac and Sara Bateman—thank you for stopping by!

Over the past twenty-three years of marriage, we’ve raised six children, loved three dogs, and lived in four different states before putting down roots in Salt Lake City, Utah in 2010. Mac is a Pediatric Cardiac Anesthesiologist at Primary Children’s Hospital, and Sara is a mom, photographer, and graphic designer.

How It All Started

In 2013, we traveled to Peru with the Hearts with Hope Foundation from UCLA. Mac provided anesthesia for underserved children undergoing heart surgery, while Sara documented the mission through photography. Those weeks were filled with long days in the operating room, visits to special needs schools, and unforgettable encounters with children and their families.

But one day stands out: visiting Casa Hogar El Amor de Dios, a privately run orphanage in Arequipa. José and his wife Gloria were caring for 45 abandoned and abused children, providing them food, education, and—most importantly—a safe and loving home. Witnessing their sacrifice and devotion moved us deeply.

From a Christmas Project to a Foundation

Back home, we couldn’t stop thinking about those children. For three years, our family organized a Christmas project to support the orphans—sending clothing, blankets, toys, and essentials with the help of family, neighbors, and friends.

Encouraged by a trusted friend, we realized we could do more. Shipping gifts was meaningful, but costly and complicated. By raising funds locally, we could provide greater, long-term support. And so, The RUDY Foundation was born.

Thanks to generous donations, the foundation has been able to support Casa Hogar El Amor de Dios with vital improvements and resources. You can explore our Relief Projects page to see updates and photos of how your contributions are making a difference.

Expanding Our Mission

While we continue to support José, Gloria, and the children at Casa Hogar, we are also committed to finding ways to serve underprivileged and disadvantaged youth both locally and abroad.

Join Us

If you know of local youth in need—or if you’d like to partner with us—we’d love to hear from you. Together, we can bring relief, opportunity, and hope to those who need it most.

With gratitude,
Sara Bateman – Executive Director
Mac Bateman – Associate Director
Amy DeHart – Secretary/Treasurer
Lindsay Duckworth – Officer