A Fighting Chance
the problem:
During the summer of 2009 I volunteered for 4 weeks at Hohoe Children Orphan's Home in Hohoe, Ghana. This trip impacted my life so much more than I had the time to impact theirs. I am trying to raise funds and resources to return to Hohoe and the orphanage and create a plan to give these children “a fighting chance”.
One boy in particular stole my heart. His story made me realize just HOW much help these children truly need. His name is Promise. As one of the oldest boys at the orphanage, he is looked upon to take care of the younger children, do odd tasks around the orphanage and still somehow complete all of his school work. The best part is that DOES do well in school and he likes to draw when he gets the chance. Promise and the other children want to succeed, however there is very little chance for them to continue their education. These overcrowded orphanages are doing the best they can with what they have. They rely on donations and volunteers to help stretch what little resources they have. Pencils are being used down to the erasers. Books are often being shared by more than one student. Desks squeeze four little behinds together while sitting in class. Education materials are not readily available in this small town. The teachers are not trained properly and the combination makes it near impossible to set these children up for success. They are already behind the eight ball with not having a loving family or the proper support.
vital stats:
people impacted:
30people involved:
6why it's important:
Just being at the orphanage and teaching the little ones - it is so easy to fall in love with their infectious smiles and joy for life. I see their potential. I just need the resources to help make a difference. I have seen first hand how a society and culture can benefit from educated citizens. This contribution to the orphanage will set them up for future success.
the plan of action:
I am planning to set up drives to raise educational resources (pencils, books, desks, etc) as well as create training manuals for the staff members. The knowledge I have acquired from studying education at West Chester University has made me realize that even the teachers at HCOH don't have the proper education. They don't know how to create lessons plans or have standards for the children to work towards. And lastly- I would like to go back to Hohoe and donate my time for at least one year to put the programs in place and make sure that they become self sufficient.
One idea is to create a "book-bag" campaign. Canvas totes will be availible along with a resource checklist for concerned citizens. The idea is that after you pick up these totes, you fill it with pens, pencils, notebooks, a children's or young adult book, crayons and any other educational resources you feel would be beneficial. Also, it will be asked to include a little note of encouragement or well wishes to the students. After the tote is filled, it can be returned to the area project leader. In return, we will give re-usable tote bags with our logo on it as a "Thank You" for helping our cause.
how you can get involved:
If you have any further ideas or questions, please email us at fightingchanceproject@gmail.com
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