Summoning the Human Spirit to its Best Self

The CeresCF funded Build Up the Children Project contributes to the success of a group of ten community-based organizations and schools by enabling them to expand their current infrastructure, commitment to education, and expertise in peace and conflict resolution initiatives. Specifically, the grant provides infrastructure support to each of the ten network sites that enhances their ability to implement numerous educational programs. Examples of the work that has been undertaken at these sites include the completion of the resource/peace center/training hall at The Village, as well as facilities in each of the ten sites that will operate satellite resource/peace centers. The grant also aims to increase the quality of the current education programs by expanding the networking capabilities of the ten sites through teacher development and evaluation.

This project has provided children with access to a higher quality of education and materials than they have previously known. Over 120 teachers, 30 community representatives, and 3,000 children and their parents, have directly benefited from the resources made available through the grant. All of the grant beneficiaries have been adversely affected by war, and include amputee survivors, orphans, children who have lost a parent to war or illness, and children suffering from post-war trauma. Many of the female students are in an age range that puts them at risk of female genital mutilation.

The project achieved its main goal of strengthening the educational foundation of each student from early childhood through high school by increasing both the quantity and the quality of the educational infrastructures at the ten sites. The educational experiences of more than 3,000 children have been enriched through the project’s efforts.

Additionally, a decision to consolidate the ten sites has strengthened the network, and has facilitated the sharing of ideas and contributed to building the capacity of the site administrators.

Scott McDonald, chair of the Ceres Charitable Foundation, recently made a trip to Sierra Leone to see first hand the improvements made to the schools. See photographs of the schools and read what Scott had to say about his trip here:

Scott McDonald Travel Blog

Read the full CeresCF Build Up the Children Report here:

LemonAid Fund, 490 Lincoln Ave West, Highland Park, IL 60035 USA