Day 5 Camp... Last Day, Graduation and PARTY

 

This year's camp's slogan "Come Let's Grow" has had significant meaning, and as the week has progressed, it has become more meaningful to all of us.  Within one week's time the kids have grown, as well as the rest of us.  

 

Today, that literal significance was reflected in the kids taking their seeds that were planted in a cup on the first day and transferring them to the garden we have in the back yard.  It will be fun and interesting for the kids to see how those seeds grow.  A tree was also painted on the wall in the centre, and each child, volunteer and translator put a green hand print on the tree for "leaves."  The afternoon was taken up with the Hope Shine's traditional dance-off competition between the groups, as well as a "graduation" of signed camper certificates, best camper in each group awards, and goodie bags and the cake and Fanta party with music and dancing at the end of the day.  That was a blast, and the mamas who made our daily lunches even joined in the festivities.  

 

The day ended with Expo, my favorite day, which is a big event of vendors, music, and lots of people, including a number of our "old" campers we bumped in to and were thrilled to see all grown up!

 

This week and experience really has been one of healthy challenge and growth, for both us and the kids.  We've gotten to know and bond with them well very quickly.  It's been challenging and emotional for them and us, but so rewarding and meaningful, and I wouldn't trade it for the world.  As the week progressed, the kids' morning welcome got closer and closer to the road we arrived on in the van, to the point where they were running up to the van smiling and shouting to greet us as we rounded the corner... The hugs and the love showered upon us in pure gratitude and joy made us all realize that yes, this was worth it, and yes, this is why we went into this, and for some of us to see that impact and happiness, why we return year after year.  

 

Michael Stromme 

Board Member

4th Year Volunteer

 

"Inspiration, Rugby, and Butterflies"

Thursday August 4th, 2016

"Inspiration, Rugby, and Butterflies"

 

This is Dan, Executive Director of Hope Shines. I can honestly tell you I was excited to write this blog today. Not only to let everyone know what is going on here in Rwanda, but because today was somewhat emotional for me and more eye opening.

I learned to improve as a manager and certainly learned that as much progress has come to Rwanda, some things don't always work out the way you want or plan. Patience and relying on new ways to communicate were top of my list this morning. Everyone has a role here....the guard, the facility manager, the cooks, the country manager, the volunteers, the translators/facilitators...we all work together to accomplish the mission. We are the backbone of this operation on the ground. I am getting better I think at working with new people and helping us become more efficient. I am learning to rely on my team more than ever and trust those I put in charge. Today's controlled chaos is a shining example of this.

 

The day started with volunteer and facilitator share about our path to University and in our careers. We all told our story, which were all different and so important to the kids. It gives them a chance to see what success can look like when we all go through different challenges in our very different upbringings and lives. I saw the interest from them and even saw a couple almost thinking intensely about their future when challenged by us to take charge of their life and don't let their poor backgrounds dictate what they are capable of. I saw that and I was moved by that. 

 

Our special guest, Vincent, a team member from the Silverbacks Rwanda National Rugby team, told his story too, which included his tough journey to get to University and on to the team to represent his country. He taught the game of rugby and we even played later, but what was most interesting was that he took the day off, unpaid, to join us and the kids just to leave his mark on the development of these vulnerable youth. He loved his time with us and we loved him. He told me he'll be back tomorrow just to hang out! Wow, we must be doing something right!

 

Oh the carnage! The kids were true rugby fans by the end of the day and were taken through drills by Vincent, which wasn't necessarily about the game itself, rather it was about learning to listen, communicate, work as a team, take direction. The game is only the platform. Smiles around and certainly some aggressive pile ups were had!

 

 

We ate another great lunch at 12:30, which included carrots, potatoes, pasta, and fish! What a well balanced meal cooked by women that are mamas of some of the children we serve. We love to put money back into the families. Your donations go towards this and it makes a huge difference.

 

We finished the day off with a science lesson on the steps to becoming a butterfly. Volunteers read butterfly books and then the children learned the steps and made a fun craft. they were so proud to take it home to their homes.

I'll be posting about some of the kids I've grown to know better since my time here because I want to connect the donors and supporters to them specifically. I've always said, I don't want to be the one getting credit for leading this organization but rather I want to be part of what brings up these kids that have no chance and empower them to achieve their highest potential. After all, to me that is what it's all about...giving your best and trying to achieve the most! 

A brother and sister I now know are just incredible. They are fraternal twins in a family of 5. Their names are Germaine and Germie. They live in a run down mud house that is 12'x12' with 3 other members of the "family". Their mama washed clothes for money and that's all she can do with her primary school education. She makes $20 USD a month and she cares for 3 other kids that aren't even hers. What a sacrifice! These two are enrolled with us and we pay for health insurance and school fees so they can be educated and healthy. They have been top performers at camp all week and are eager to learn. The challenges these kids face is unbelievable. Their house is literally almost falling down the hill and the mama is re-building it herself! Wow. 

 

So the ending to this blog is about recharging the batteries. My batteries and hopefully those who are reading about our little nonprofit. This is real life here and I personally need your help to allow us to make an impact in these lives. I'm seeing the work is good. We have a great strategy. We are foundationally strong with programs we can measure and evaluate. Help me and help us please. Make a connection, invite us to a networking event, donate to our campaigns and on the website, come to our events. You might find yourself here with us one day, with a beating heart that beats for these children!

ijoro ryiza (Good night)

Dan Gladden
Executive Director

Day 3 Camp - Bakery, Germs and TEETH

Muraho! I'm Jessica, the Fundraising Coordinator for Hope Shines and first year volunteer! I'm from Tulsa, Oklahoma, live in Denver, Colorado, and this is my first time visiting Africa!

Although I can't speak for the rest of Africa, Rwanda is amazing! I am blown away by the positive vibes here, and even more blown away by the strength and unity of the community. Also, this place is gorgeous! "Land of a thousand hills" means there are great views from literally everywhere you stand! Pictures do not do this place justice.

 

Day three of camp was a success! 

We started our morning with a nutrition lesson from The Women's Bakery, an education-centric social enterprise serving Rwanda and Tanzania. The lesson ended with getting to sample yummy bread from the bakery!

 

We then ate a well-balanced lunch, which was prepared and served by the "Camp Mamas." Each day, mothers of the children spend their morning preparing our lunches in the backyard of the Learning Centre. Every day the food is different and every day the food is DELICIOUS!

 

After lunch, we learned the next steps to the dance for the dance competition and, of course, practiced practiced practiced all of our moves!

In the afternoon, we had a health and hygiene lesson, which consisted of learning about how to properly wash our hands and care for our mouths. 

To teach the children the importance of washing our hands properly, we used a product called Glo Germ. One kid from each group applied the product to their hands, and then washed their hands the way they regularly do. We then used a blacklight to show them all the yuckiness that was left behind as a result of how they did not properly wash their hands. We then reviewed the correct way to wash hands: water, soap, wash thoroughly for no less than 20 seconds, rinse, dry. The kids loved the Glo Germ demonstration!

 

To demonstrate how to properly care for our mouths, each kid got to use a similar product to the Glo Germ, whereas they chewed a red tablet and all the yuckiness in their mouths turned bright red. Before doing so, we reviewed the correct way to brush our teeth: softly, in horizontal circles, at an angle. We also discussed the importance of brushing our tongues and gums. 

 

Yet another successful camp day in the books!

Day 2 Hope Shines Summer Camp

Greetings from the Tiger Monkey volunteer leader of Hope Shines’ Summer Camp! I’m also a first year volunteer at camp and Hope Shines’ Board member. Here’s my take on Day 2!

Our 35 campers are spending much of the day in small groups – the Sharks, Rabbits, Tiger Angels, Gorillas, Lions, and Tiger Monkeys!

 

The day started off with a bang, of happy campers anxious to start the day singing the ABC’s with Hannah #2’s amazing ukulele.  As part of our “Let’s Grow” camp theme, each of the groups then got to plant a bean seed in a plastic cup, so they can watch it grow into a fully fledged plant. We talked about how the water and sunlight are its food, and it will put down roots in its home which is its soil.  

 

Today was also SOCCER DAY!! There is a great athletic field just up the street from the Hope Shines Learning Center where we had a couple of hours on the pitch to warm up, do some passing drills (while spelling English words… pass 1 – “B”!, pass 2 – “A”, pass 3 – “L”, pass 4 – “L”), and then get into a full-on rowdy game of soccer! Watch our blog in the coming months for news on our up and coming star athletes!

 

 

After lunch we learned about first aid for cuts and burns, and ended our busy day with a little dancing  - getting ready for the dance competition on Friday…. Who will win?? The Tiger Monkeys of course!! :-)

 

These days are a little crazy, and the kids’ excitement grows each day. Yesterday’s quiet & shy munchkins launched a full-on 9am hug-attack at the gate this morning. What a difference a day makes! I can’t imagine how tomorrow will be … I know which 8 yr old Tiger Monkey I’ll be chasing around; but, who is going to surprise us with their courage, compassion, humor, wisdom, or dance moves? I can’t wait to see!

With love from Kigali,

Joanne

"Hannah #2" Come Let's Grow!

Hi! 

I'm Hannah Carlson, also known as "Hannah #2" in our Hope Shines group. This is my first year working with the program and traveling to Africa, and I'm the youngest volunteer at 18. I'm a Music Therapy major at Shenandoah University, and I love working with children and bringing music into their lives. 

Today we were on the road by 7:30 to get prepared for our campers. I was extremely nervous to meet all the kids, especially because the language barrier makes it difficult to learn names and make bonds- but as they arrived we put on music and danced with them, and I could already tell that we would have a good time this week. 

We passed out Hope Shines T-shirts and water bottles and split all the kids into six groups; my group of kids decided they wanted to be called the Lions.

 

I had the responsibility of teaching a quick music lesson today, and despite my nerves I think it went well and the kids enjoyed it! First we made shakers out of two plastic cups, duct tape, and beads which the kids created rhythms with and took home. I also taught them a game/ chant called Choo Choo Ka to help them learn their vocab word "tempo." 

Throughout the day I used my ukulele to help fill any extra time- we played lots of games incorporating music such as freeze dance, and the campers loved taking turns playing the uke whenever possible. We taught the kids the beginning of our "Let it Go" dance and told them about the life cycle of plants, encouraging them to practice English. 

 

After an exhausting day at camp and lots of dancing to Frozen, we celebrated by going to a local market and eating dinner at a Rwandan version of Chipotle. 

 

The first day of camp left me drained, but I can't wait to go back tomorrow! 

 

Hannah Rae's Blog Orientation Day

Muraho!

Hannah Rae here, I'm from Edinburgh, Scotland. I am the Camp Director for Hope Shines this year. This is my fourth year volunteering with Hope Shines and first year as Director (thanks to Dan, Steph and baby Mack for giving me this opportunity!). Back in 2013 I was volunteering and traveling in Rwanda. I found Hope Shines through a Rwandan friend and boy am I glad that I did! Rwanda is an incredible country and coming back every year is so special to me, each year it feels more and more like home. Being a part of the Hope Shines family is a huge part of my Rwandan adventures and I am immensely grateful for the time we all share together!

Now that the soppy part is over, let's get down to business! Today was Orientation Day. This is always the day before camp starts, where all volunteers and translators come together for the first time to get to know each other and familiarise themselves with the camp curriculum.

We started the day by learning a bit about each other, through some interesting conversations and interpretive dancing! We also played a favourite game of mine I like to call THUNDER (which I am working on making a permanent feature of camp this year!).

Jenny and Bienta doing some interpretive dance!

We went through the camp curriculum. Everyone is now fully prepared and up to speed on the lessons we will be teaching each day throughout camp! I am really excited to see how the new volunteers and translators work together. 

THUNDER!!!

After a delicious Rwandan lunch, we jumped in our trusty van and headed to the Kigali Genocide Memorial Museum. Every year Hope Shines volunteers visit the memorial in order pay their respects and learn more about the recent history of Rwanda. It is extremely important for all volunteers to have an understanding and awareness of the 1994 Genocide and how this has shaped Rwanda today.

Afterwards, the team jumped back in the van and we headed to our brand new Hope Shines Centre. This is an incredibly exciting year for Hope Shines as for the first time we now have our own centre. We can make this place home and have already started to do so by painting the walls and hanging posters, pictures and maps up on the walls of the main classroom. Seeing that classroom full of excited and eager children for the first time tomorrow will definitely be a moment to remember!

Michael and Bienta hanging the Hope Shines banner at the center!

At the centre, we also met with some of the Hope Shines children and their parents. The parents of the children are very much involved in Hope Shines, some of the mamas will even be cooking the camp lunches throughout the week.

The Mamas and some of the children who will take part in camp this week.

Once wrapped up, it was time for the Welcome dinner. This is an opportunity for all volunteers and translators to share a meal together and get excited for a full and most likely hectic week ahead. I personally can't wait. Being Camp Director is a huge privilege for me and will of course be a big challenge, but one I am most definitely up for!

Look forward to a week full of Hope Shines blogs from all our volunteers. Come on this journey with us where ever you are in the world and thank you for your support!

Amahoro! 

The center finished and decorated READY for camp tomorrow.

"Turi Umwe" (We Are One)

30 July 2016

Kigali, Rwanda

Sector Nyamirambo

"Turi Umwe"

We are one. The saying in Rwanda rings true and close to my heart today more so than ever before. Over the last few days, we've welcomed our new group of volunteers for our annual leadership and immersion program and with great excitement we introduced them to a great tradition and custom of the Rwandan culture today. With tired eyes and jet lagged brains, we took our hired van over to the sector Nyamirambo and met with the village leader, Bonani to get the schedule of the events for the morning. Today was Umuganda day in Rwanda!

Current day Umuganda takes place on the last Saturday of each month, from 8:00am to 11:00am when communities come together to do a number of public acts. Click here: http://bit.ly/2aDd3Vr to learn more about Umuganda. We arrived by 7:45am and waited as the village folks arrived to the center to get instruction on the day's activities. We were tired but still ready to get into this custom. The word Umuganda can be translated as ‘coming together in common purpose to achieve an outcome’. In traditional Rwandan culture, members of the community would call upon their family, friends and neighbors to help them complete a difficult task. Umuganda activities can be anything from cleaning streets, cutting grass and trimming bushes along roads, or repairing public facilities or building houses for vulnerable persons. 

Great turn out from the villagers in Nyamirambo

Our Hope Shines team were greeted by friendly villagers and immediately felt the awkwardness of everyone staring and showing interest in these new foreigners in their village....what were we doing here was written all over their faces. We immediately were given shovels, hoes, machetes, and a large area of grass, trash, and shrubs that we needed to cut down for Umuganda day. Everyone participated and it was a great feeling to help out the community where Hope Shines operates and make new friends and frankly be treated as they would treat their own family. I can't say enough about this country and the people in it. I've never been treated so whole-heartedly and loved before in any place in the world I've visited. 

Even New Yorkers (and Board Members) like Joanne can get those hands dirty!

Country Manager Phillip always smiling

No man is safe around Director Dan. Having too much fun!

The hard work ended after 2 hours and we all had a big sweat and plenty of dirt and blisters on our bodies! The last hour was led by Bonani as he spoke to the villagers about local priorities, the importance of security and healthy living, and by welcoming us once more. The village now knows Hope Shines, and in a positive 'light'. They know we work with THEir vulnerable children who have so little, opportunities or otherwise. It's a struggle here in Rwanda for many but we are certainly trying to do our part. Yes, we have challenges to keep the programs running, but I am reminded each time I'm walking here on flour dirt that we will make it work and we will improve lives of children in mnay ways. This day was great not only for our new volunteers but for the reason that we all came together as one....Turi Umwe, we are one!

Perfect togetherness of two strangers from very different worlds

Village Leader Bonani stressing the importance of acquiring health insurance

Warm Regards,

Dan Gladden
Executive Director