From Coy

Throughout the last couple of days, I have gotten the opportunity to spend some time in Rwanda’s early educational system. Yesterday we passed the morning in the Ubumwe Community center, a wonderful building that was built in part by the Columbus Zoo and wildlife icon Jack Hanna. The facilities created a definite sense of community. Rooms were being used by distinct groups, providing needed services to children and adults. We first entered into a room full of artisans. There they used machines of various types and sizes to weave, sew and build various goods that would be taken to be sold in the market. In another room we attended classes with about 20 deaf children, and sat and watched as the teacher taught sign language. It was amazing to me to see the children get excited to learn new ways of communication. The last room was filled with handicapped children, who were overjoyed to show us their English skills by counting and showing us the colors. Both classes are provided to the children at no charge to the parents. The teachers work for little more than the assurance that they are contributing something to their country.

It was great to see our MasterMinds volunteers interact with the children; learning, teaching, and reinforcing. The UNGANA Foundation’s impact is slowly starting to resonate throughout the area. The spirit of the word ‘ungana’ – to come together to accomplish a purpose – is demonstrated in everything we attempt. Residents of Gisenyi are starting to take up the cause and offer their services to further our work. It is inspiring to be part of such an effort. Witnessing a people so committed to progress reinforces in me the knowledge that people will help themselves if given the tools and pointed in the right direction.

Coy Whittier

Communications Associate

The UNGANA Foundation