We’ve just returned from a field visit to our Unstoppable communities in Kenya and have exciting progress to share. Here’s a quick snapshot of three communities in different stages of our Sponsor A Village (SAV) development model that are well on their way to being fully sustainable: Laila, Kipasan and Olmusereji.

 

1,600

The total number of students who are now going to school in Laila, Olmusereji and Kipasan. These students are receiving healthy meals everyday at school, ensuring their bellies are full and they can focus on learning. A visit to one of these communities just a short time ago would have revealed a single deteriorating classroom with a mud floor and minimal light for students to read. Each community now has multiple classrooms (23 combined!) that are bright, safe environments optimal for learning.

“I try to be a good role model for my siblings by succeeding in school. Education is the only way we can achieve our dreams and help our community.” —Abigail, age 14

10

The number of latrine blocks built in Olmusereji. Laila, four years into the SAV program, has 6, in addition to 3 new hand-washing stations at the school campus to support increased hygiene, a solar-powered spring that provides fresh clean water. Each community has received training on water treatment methods and how to reduce water-borne disease. In Kipasan, three years into the SAV program, there are 7 latrine blocks and construction of a borehole for clean water is scheduled to begin this year.

32

The number of community members in Kipasan who received agribusiness training on how to identify local cash crops. In Olmusereji, farmers are learning how to sell maize, bean and wheat harvests, fostering self-reliance and empowerment. In Laila, harvests from a two-acre school farm support the school nutrition program and plans are underway to plant a community garden to provide additional nutritional food and generate alternative income.

“I am so grateful for the change in my community. While I don’t know what the future holds, I know there are great things ahead for my family and me.” —Rebecca, age 52

2,000

The total number of community members from Kipasan who now have access to healthcare. In Laila, there are 2,150 men, women and children who now have access and in Olmusereji, 2,100. Ensuring basic health needs are met is a key component to keeping kids in school and building strong, sustainable communities.

“Before our village got access to healthcare, I had severe ringworm and couldn’t go to school. I got better after receiving medication through the mobile health clinics. I’m so happy to be back in school and hope to one day become an engineer.” —Dorcas, age 12

114

The number of community members in Laila who attended financial literacy trainings on asset management, budgeting and banking. Laila, Olmusereji and Kipasan all have active empowerment groups, offering opportunities ranging from bee-keeping and agribusiness to finances and investments, and youth groups.

 

Click below to view a complete impact report of each community.

 

Laila Impact Report

Kipasan Impact Report

Olmusereji Impact Report