​DISPATCHES FROM KOLAHUN

Olena, Designer, the blue-eyed-barbarian Olena, Designer, the blue-eyed-barbarian

Strong woman

Restore Hope: Liberia's "STRONG WOMEN" program empowers Liberian women by providing psychosocial support and essential life skills. The program aims to enhance their health, economic opportunities, and social empowerment, benefiting families and communities.

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Almost There

John Morris, a Restore Hope Board Member, bought a Toyota 4-Runner, shipping it to Liberia for arrival on March 5, 2022. He discovered Restore Hope: Liberia's work through The Nation magazine in 2020, focusing on empowering Kolahun District communities.

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Focus on women

In Liberia, women's land rights are constrained by gender biases, but the 2018 Land Rights Act is a positive development. Restore Hope Liberia is tackling mental health issues in women through a 12-week therapy program to empower and uplift them.

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4-Runner Journey

Anything is possible with passion and purpose, as exemplified by John Morris and Dr. Barbara Burke's determined journey to provide a reliable vehicle for RHL's mission in Liberia.

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Shaky ground: epilepsy in Liberia

Francis, a Liberian teenager with epilepsy, faces many challenges. RHL works to improve the well-being of people like Francis and combat the stigma associated with epilepsy in the region.

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The Covid-19 Crisis

RHL is aiding rural Liberia amidst the pandemic by supporting staff, increasing cash transfers, and supplying critical medical resources to under-resourced hospitals facing dire shortages. The situation in these hospitals underscores the urgent need for assistance to prevent a potential catastrophe.

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Meet Mariama. She perseveres

Mariama's journey, her battle with health issues in Liberia's struggling healthcare system, and the crucial support provided by Restore Hope: Liberia (RHL). It emphasizes the need for improved healthcare access and advocacy to help children like Mariama overcome adversity and lead meaningful lives.

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Resilience & finding hope

Ms. Blama's story reflects resilience and hope, overcoming trauma from Liberia's war and finding support from Restore Hope. Your contribution can help others like her rebuild their lives and provide a meaningful gift this season.

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Our campaign for RHL's literacy program

Urgent: Help us reach our goal of 40 donors and $5000 in our crowdfunding campaign for childhood literacy in Liberia through Global Giving. Your support will make a lasting impact on disadvantaged children's education and future opportunities in the Kolahun District. Donate now to break the cycle of illiteracy and poverty.

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“I like to fix things and I want to be an engineer”

Play is essential for children's development, especially for those who have faced adversity. Manbu's inventive spirit in Liberia showcases the potential within young minds, and supporting their education and dreams can lead to a brighter future for them and their communities.

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Vet building update

The Vocational Education & Training (VET) center is nearly complete at 99%, with only the installation of water and sanitation facilities remaining, expected to finish by the end of summer. The community eagerly anticipates the move-in of office, library, tutoring classes, and the Women's Weaving Cooperative, all made possible by generous donations and a grant from the German Embassy in Monrovia. Vielen danken!

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Renewing Joy

Juliana, a deaf teenager in Liberia, initially faced limited educational resources, but thanks to the efforts of RESTORE HOPE: LIBERIA, she found a suitable school for the deaf in Voinjama. Seven months later, she not only has friends but also wears a smile, highlighting the positive impact of social connections on her life.

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In memory of Francis S.L. Kanneh

Francis Kanneh, a dedicated teacher and integral member of RESTORE HOPE: LIBERIA, passed away in January 2019. Despite facing health challenges, he continued to serve the community, leaving a lasting impact on the children and families of Kolahun, Liberia.

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Almost there!… See what we’re building

The VET center in Kolahun is 80% complete, but additional funds are needed due to rising building material costs. Donations will support the creation of a vital community space, including a public library, literacy center, weaving area, and vocational training workshop.

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Urgent: end-of-year appeal

Dr. Robert M. Rufsvold, Co-founder and President of the Board of RESTORE HOPE, emphasizes the transformative impact of grassroots community development in providing healthcare, education, and economic opportunities. Your support is needed to continue this vital work in Liberia.

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Native sons of Kolahun join RHL

Dr. Andrew Cole and Vamba Sherif, both native sons of Kolahun, have joined RESTORE HOPE: LIBERIA's Advisory Board. Dr. Cole's medical expertise and Sherif's literary contributions demonstrate their dedication to supporting the community they hold dear.

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Where healthcare is scare

RESTORE HOPE: LIBERIA acknowledges the scarcity of healthcare in Liberia, with a population of 4 million and only 300 physicians, highlighting the challenges of providing for vulnerable children in the Kolahun community. Their health program, led by registered nurse Gladys Zarbay, emphasizes home visits, psychosocial support, and coordination with local healthcare systems to address the pressing healthcare needs of the children they support.

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Sharing hope

Helen, a high school junior and aspiring doctor, displayed her passion for hygiene and knowledge during a U.N. World Hand Washing Day event in Kolahun, Liberia, inspiring her peers. Her dedication, along with that of another young student, Hassan, was acknowledged during an enlightening conversation with local doctors, symbolizing the transformative power of courage and hope.

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Traditional craft revived

In Kolahun, Liberian women have formed the Women's Weaving Cooperative (WWC) to revive traditional weaving skills and generate income. With support from RESTORE HOPE: LIBERIA and the Friends of Liberia, they are receiving training, seed capital, and business skills to ensure the sustainability of their venture and create a brighter economic future.

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Turning the page on literacy

RESTORE HOPE: LIBERIA is tackling illiteracy in Kolahun, where many adults are eager to learn to read, recognizing it as a path to knowledge and better lives. They are providing literacy classes for women and a collection of books for children, emphasizing the transformative power of reading for individuals and the community

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