Rwanda Mission

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2012-01-30T11:59:00.000-08:00

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2012-01-13T09:06:00.000-08:00

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Annual Report 2011 and Action Plan for 2012 (most figures are in francs)

2012-01-11T02:26:00.000-08:00

CITY OF JOY

Annual report 2011.

Domain	Planned activities	Planned budget	Realized activities	Used budget	Activities not achieved	Un used budget	Comments
Education	Buying 25 hectors of land	30,000,000	We are still negotiating with land owners	-	We didn’t get the land to build a school	30,000,000	More negotiations between the Government & land owner
	Level the ground	10,000,000	Waiting to purchase the land	-	We don’t have the land	10,000,000	It will be spent as long as people accept to sell
	Student Sponsorship	200,000	86 primary school and 5 in secondary were given school supplies	334000
Comm. develop.	To pay health insur 200 people	200,000	137 people received their medical cards	137,000	70 people were not able to get medical cards		The price for mutuelle changed

	To start Small scale farming - 200 families	3,000,000	207 families received goats, and 3 families each given a cow	3664000
	Offer a training- 20 girls in sewing	1,000,000	23 girls have been started 1 year training, 12 machines using for learning and 5 machines were given to individuals	1,152,000	-	-	The Organization started to empower by donating personal machines
	Construction of Women's Center	17,000,000	It under construction	10,074,200	Roofing will be done soon	6,925,800
		61,400,000 $101,488		15,361,200 $25,390

Action plan 2012.

Domain	Project name	Planned activities	Planned budget	Area of intervention in the District/ Sector	Donors	Observation
Social affairs	Community development	Completing construction of women/community training center	17,000,000	Ngwa Cell, Mukingo Sector, Nyanza District	City of Joy	This may increase
		Donating 24 sewing machines to the girls	1,440,000	Ngwa cell, Mukingo Sector, Nyanza District	City of Joy
		Register 30 girls in sewing class	6,000,000	Ngwa cell, Mukingo, Nyanza District	City of Joy
		Train community in crafts and art work	3,000,000	From different parts of Nyanza District	City of Joy
		Donating cows and goats	2,000,000	Mukingo sector, Nyanza District	City of Joy
	Education	Sponsor ship for 200 children from poor families	3,000,000	Children from G.S Kaganza, Nyarutovu and Mwanabiri primary school in Mukingo Sector	City of Joy
Total			32,440,000 $53,620

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2011-12-31T03:36:00.000-08:00

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2011-12-26T23:15:00.000-08:00

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2011-12-17T11:12:00.000-08:00

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Latest happenings in Rwanda!

2011-12-03T22:37:00.000-08:00

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Latest Newsletter!

2011-11-27T06:06:00.000-08:00

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2011-11-19T04:20:00.000-08:00

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2011-11-12T21:57:00.000-08:00

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This weeks Mission in Rwanda

2011-11-08T20:31:00.000-08:00

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2011-10-29T22:35:00.000-07:00

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Student Sponsorships

2011-10-28T22:22:00.000-07:00

Education is the key to helping children and giving them a brighter future. For many kids education is difficult. Even though government (public) schools are free there are costs involved. Uniforms, sandals, haircuts, paper, pencils, pens, and other supplies are required. If a family is too poor to buy these things some children remain at home and don't go to school.

City of Joy is making a difference through Student Sponsorships! You can sponsor a student and help them go and stay in school. For a gift of $25-primary school or $50-secondary school, you can help a child. You will receive a picture and short biography of the child you have helped. Your gift will provide everything needed for one year of education.

Gifts are tax deductible if given through our sponsoring church. Make checks payable to:

Living Hope Community Church
7925A N. Oracle #376
Tucson, AZ 85704

Enclose on a separate piece of paper "Todd and Andria- Student Sponsorships".

Or if you would rather donate through paypal (not tax deductible) you can donate with the paypal button located on this blog's home page. Please write a note "Student Sponsorships" on the last page of the paypal donation.

Thank you for changing the world one child at a time!

Todd and Andria

Women of Rwanda - Jane & Sophia

2011-10-18T02:35:00.000-07:00

Two women received "Women of Rwanda" sponsorships this week. The sponsorships will help them better themselves through business and personal development. One-on-one mentoring will aide them in life and business skills. Both women will receive sewing machines that they will use in the sewing association or if they choose they can venture off and start their own business.

Women of Rwanda sponsorships are $30/month for 12 months.

Name: Jane Kubwimana

Birth day: December 30^th 1983

Father: John Ntakabamira

Mother: Leocadia Nyiraneza

I have completed primary school in 2003 and my parent s were not able to send me in secondary school, I got married and have 3 children, Vestine Murekatete born January 1^st 2004, second born are twins Kevine Gatesi and Vivine Akarezi , born in January 13^th 2009, they were premature of 6 months. I expected my husband to help but didn’t happen because he went away and he never shows up to see the twins. We were living in rented house yet I had no money to pay, I decided to return to my parents, I was thinking of my future and fail to get an encouraging answer. I thank God my family helped to feed the babies until I started searching for casual labor in construction places but didn’t accomplish a lot. 2 years later cell leaders sent me to join sewing training and I am able to make shirts, skirts and trousers, as we finish the training I would like to work with other sewing members while focus on improving the welfare of my family.

Name: Sophia Mujawamungu

Birth day: September 29^th 1985

Father: Nzigiyimfura

Mother: Emeliene Urimubenshi

I attended primary school in Nyarutovu while in process to complete P.6 I was pregnant and he decided to marry me but didn’t exist for a long time, after six months he chased me out, I had nowhere to go, my parents died in the Genocide and all our houses were destroyed, some friends supported me to repair the house to live with my children, I have 2 children Lionel Uwayo born April 2^nd 2007 and Daddy Ishimwe born December 6^th 2009. Life changed abruptly after registered in sewing group, the fact that I got friends whom we chat sometimes forget all the problems, I am able to make school uniforms, skirts, shorts and bordering, in partnership with my friends we will work together to improve the lives of our people.

Brigitte M

2011-10-11T02:57:00.000-07:00

What is your name? Brigitte Mutuyimana

Name of the school? Nyarutovu

Age: 9

Grade: P.2

Father’s name: Andre Iyamuremye

Mother’s name: Mukahakizimana

How many siblings do you have and what are their ages? I don’t have sibling

What is your favorite subject in school? My favorite subject is English

What is your favorite food? Rice, chips and meat

What are your favorite games? I like jumping and hand ball

What do you like to do when you are not at school? I help in fetching water, collecting wood and cooking

What would you like to do after you are done with secondary school? I would like to teach in secondary school.

Women's Center Needs Your Help

2011-10-09T05:55:00.000-07:00

The land is bought across the street from our house. One group from America, Dress a Girl Around the World (Hope 4 Kids International), has pledged $10,000 to the new Women's Center! But we need an additional $5,000 for the first phase build.

The Women's Center will be a ministry building reaching out to at-risk women in our neighborhood. Often times women don't receive the same opportunities that the men do. Many women have been abused or have suffered neglect. The Women's Center will bring the hope of Jesus to these women. Through vocational training classes (sewing, crafts, business & leadership, etc.) and Bible studies women of all ages will enjoy a "safe-haven" that will provide them with the tools and resources to develop themselves, their faith and their families.

Twenty-six women have been training in sewing skills and are ready to move into the Women's Center and start their Sewing Association. But we need your help to make this dream a reality.Gifts are tax deductible if given through our sponsoring church. Make checks payable to:

Living Hope Community Church
7925A N. Oracle #376
Tucson, AZ 85704

Enclose on a separate piece of paper "Todd and Andria- Women's Community Center."

Or if you would rather donate through paypal (not tax deductible) you can donate with the paypal button located on this blog's home page. Please write a note "Women's Community Center" on the last page of the paypal donation.

Meet Grace from the Sewing Group

2011-10-09T05:39:00.000-07:00

Name: Mukeshimana Grace

Birth day: December 25^th 1984

Father: Straton Nkwaya born in January 1^st 1945

Mother: Adeline Nyiramajoro born July 28^th 1948

She has remained with her mother, father died in the 11994 Genocide, am doing everything at home because our mother is very old cannot be able to grow food even the is far from our place, my sisters were married and have children, we have 2 orphans that we are taking care of. The first one is in primary 5 and second in primary 1, so we do face challenges when they need school supplies and they come to me.

I started April 2^nd 2011, and am doing a job there is a difference to my previous situation, I can make different types of clothes, friendship with others girls and I will try all my best to develop my profession. May God bless you.

Midwifery

2011-10-03T08:40:00.001-07:00

Today we met our midwife, Jocelyn. Jocelyn is from Canada originally and now lives in Rwanda helping educate on pregnancy and birth. She has 4 children with her husband who is from Holland....she made us feel so comfortable with our desire to have a home birth.

Home births apparently are on the rise. Midwifery is now a recognized and respected career. Having your baby at home is a valid option and provides a warm, caring atmosphere for one of the most special events in life.

We are planning on having our baby at a friend's house in Kigali. We will live in Kigali the last few months of Andria's pregnancy and receive the care from our midwife and our doctor, Brian Robinson. Andria is confident that this is what she wants and is even considering a water tub birth. It is amazing that a huge percentage of the world gives birth at home...we are just doing what most of the world is doing!

Going to the dentist

2011-10-02T08:55:00.000-07:00

My tooth cracked and I dreaded going to the dentist. Living in Rwanda has it's challenges and finding good dental care is one of those challenges. I was able to find "the best" dentist in Rwanda. President Kagame uses her.

I am in the middle of a root canal. I had one in America and it was done faster than I imagine. It is different here. I have had two "treatments" and the pain was pretty intense. Of course the cost, around $140, is much cheaper than America. So I am thankful that I can find dental care here but I am also rather anxious about the pain factor. I am going to "man up" and face the pain head on and believe that everything will work out.

Meet Jeanne from the sewing class

2011-09-30T06:10:00.000-07:00

Name: Jeanne Kubwimana

Birth day: December 30^th 1983

Father: Jean Ntakabanyura

Mother: Leocadie Nyiraneza

Jeanne was born in a family of 7 children, she lives with her parents, father is 57 and mother 54 years old, they all depend on agriculture activities, some of us had chances to continue their education, one is 3^rd year university, senior 1 in one of the schools around home and the last born is primary 3, then we sent our brother for carpentry at least to gain some knowledge. Her completed sewing program but she is home there is no income to buy a sewing machine.

Jeanne is a single mother with 3 children, since I met him he was not interested in explaining to me of where he came from, introducing to relatives, he abandoned the family and he never come back, It is really hard for me to get food and necessity for my children unless I get casual employment like working in the field, carrying stones in construction places, fetching water and other small jobs and all these were not supporting even ¼ of what we need.

This training opened up at a right time, not only gaining knowledge but washed away stress, loneliness and opened my eyes for tomorrow, I am hoping that everything I have achieved from city of joy will a key to the entire community. In conclusion, thanks in everything you do for us may our Lord multiply them.

City of Joy Business Plan

2011-09-23T00:48:00.000-07:00

9/23/11

1 Project Overview • “City of Joy” will be a comprehensive Christian community of

services and experiences offered to all ages. • City of Joy will be located in the Village of Bikire, Ngwa Cell,

Mukingo Sector, Nyanza District, South Province, Rwanda. • The first phase will be the primary school-Joy Christian School

(JCS).

2 City of Joy Vision:

A Christ-centered community of loving God and loving others.

Mission: City of Joy, a faith- inspired organization, empowering people with Christian passion. Through formal and informal programs and experiences, City of Joy will achieve its core value of creating a community of grace.

Value: To create a community of grace where the love of God is manifested in the love of neighbor through faith development, intellectual formation and community services (concern for the poor and marginalized).

3 Joy Christian School

Vision: To form Christ-like, intellectually competent and socially responsible leaders of tomorrow.

Mission: Joy Christian School, a faith inspired-organization, aims at empowering people with Christian passion, intellectual competency and strong social concern. Through formal and informal education, and economic empowering programs, Joy Christian School will achieve its core value of creating a community of grace.

Christian School will achieve its core value of creating a community of grace.

Value: To create a community of grace where the love of God is manifested in the love of neighbor through faith development, competent intellectual formation and community services (concern for the poor and marginalized)

Why Joy Christian School (JCS)?

1. Christian Values -Loving God and loving others is the basis of the Christian faith

and this can change the world by challenging our students to exemplify

Jesus’ life. 2. Education system (recent change from French to English):

-Need for Strong and affordable English medium school. Currently, majority of poor and middle class Rwandans cannot afford quality education because of high charges by private schools. -Due to shortage of good English Medium schools, many parents send their children to neighboring countries, Uganda and Kenya.

3. Social Economic Realities: -Great need for economic empowerment of rural and poor urban communities (people who cannot afford quality education for their children). -Great need for socio-spiritual accompaniment due to the effects of the 1994 genocide.

Critical Factors/Hopes and Challenges

• Strengths – Founders’ international experience and English as their first

language. – Co-founder is an experienced teacher.

– Have initial capital to buy land – Dependable collaborators and supporters (churches and

charities) – Strong Local and international network

• Weakness – Both founders are not of Rwandese origin. – Dependence on donors and well wishers to fund the project. – Brand equity (new in the market).

• Opportuninities – Stable political atmosphere. – Accordance with recent changes in academic shift from

French to English medium of learning. – No strong competition. – High demand. – Low living and operation costs. – Many people from USA willing to volunteer as teachers and

Staff. • Challenges

– How to secure students who can contribute financially. – Enough source of Funds. – Competitors can copy our strategy.

Concept of JCS Beneficiaries

 472,000 children in Muhanga and Nyanza*  25% (118, 125) of children are from upper middle class

families which can afford tuition and boarding fees.

 35% (165, 200) are children of civil servants, small business holders, and farmers who can afford tuition fee and a certain percent of accommodation charges. These will need partial scholarships.

3 4

4 0% (188,800) are rural and poor urban residents; and orphans. Although they cannot afford private education, they can contribute to tuition fees through part-time jobs at JCS.

* Our estimates of the population of Muhanga and Nyanza, our target areas, is approximately 1.5 million. We assume that pre- school and school going children make up to 30% of the population

Joy Christian School’s Service Plan

Plan1 • Upper Middle Class

– Will pay full tuition fees. – Will pay up to 80% accommodation and transportation fees.

• Plan 2. • Middle Class

– Will pay 75% of tuition fees – Will have the options to either pay up to 80% accommodation

cost or to be day scholars and pay 50% of daily transport organized by Joy.

Plan3 • Rural and Urban poor

– Highly subsidized tuition and accommodation fees. – Parent will offer contribution in the form of labor—each

parent will do work at JCS once a week and the payment will

go into tuition fees. – Rural farmers will be given the opportunity to sell their

produce (food stuff and animal to JCS at a competitive price) and pay certain percentage to JCS for tuition and accommodation fees.

– They will be a priority for accommodation at school since they have no electricity and other amenities that support learning at home.

• Plan 4 – Community service through informal education whereby JCS

will engage rural and urban parents in income generating activities that will enable them to contribute toward education of their children at JCS.

Financial Forecasts-JCS Summary of Financial forecasts • Average tuition fee per child per year (year 1 to 6) $200. • Average salary per month $400 per person ($4,800/year/

person). • Cost of Construction of one classroom is $12,065. Total

construction cost (20 rooms by year 7) will be $241,300. • Teacher student ration is 1:20. • Aggressive fundraising of up to $560,000 by year 7. • Optimal use of facilities to generate income of $39,000 by the

end year 7. • Beginning of year 8 capital expenditure will decrease; less

construction of classrooms and offices. • Services revenue will increase beginning of year 8; wedding,

conference, summer camping, sports, etc charges.

Future Projects

• Community Church – weekly services, daily chapel time for students.

• Community Medical Clinic –serve the school and neighborhood.

• Community Center. – Public Library. – Recreation Center with swimming pool, weight room,

gymnasium, practice fields. • Fully accredited University. • Housing for staff. • Dormitories for children primary and secondary schools. • Vocational training center – English classes, sewing,

agriculture, carpentry... • Conference Center- host weddings and events- income

generator. • Missionary Training Center.

– Help train those called to be missionaries all around the world.

11 Action Plan 12 Benefits to the Community

• Economic Impact- create over 100 jobs in first three years. • Resources – many of the facilities will be open to the

community to use. – Public Library, Recreation Center with swimming pool, weight

room, gymnasium, practice fields. • Increase property values. • Attract many new business and families to relocate. • Vocational training center – sewing, agriculture, carpentry... • Conference Center. • Missionary Training Center.

– Help train those called to be missionaries all around the world.

• Teaching English to the adults-starting Jan. 2012.

Meet Febronie from the Sewing Class

2011-09-09T01:26:00.000-07:00

Name: Febronie Mukamana

Married: Sunday, September 4th, 2011

Birth day: January 1^st 1981 Mukingo Sector, Nyanza

Father: Vincent Kayibanda

Mother: Belina Mukagatare

She was born in family of 7 children, 1 is a boy and 6 are girls. 2 are in secondary school s.2 and s. 1 at Nyanza Secondary school , we have been living with our mother because our father died in the 1994 Genocide when we were still young though am the first born so I took the responsibility to help our mother taking care of my brother and sister especially the ones at secondary school and the last born who is in primary school, I got married recently and it is a new experience in my life. Previously, my life was to stay home because I could not get financial support to complete my education, I had no job except growing food which was not enough to support in all we needed in daily life, the little we could get from agricultural activities was distributed to the students sometimes friends were adding some thing, I came to know city of Joy through cell leaders because I gave them bad time requesting support for secondary school and didn’t work, I joined other girls in sewing association, we trained making designs and different way of making clothes, developing friendship with girls from different areas and share life experience, am proud of what I have achieved, after the training am determined to apply the skills to help other girls and children in making our brighter future.

Just One Thing

2011-09-08T00:38:00.000-07:00

Remember the scene in the movie City Slickers? Where Curley tells Billy Crystals character that the secret to life is "just one thing"! That just one thing is my theme in Rwanda in a funny way. You see life here is very different than America. In America I enjoyed multi-tasking and working on various projects and checking off those goals on the the "to do" list. Each day I would look forward to taking steps toward planned goals.

In Rwanda "the one thing" is just that..one thing. If as my friend Isaac at Victory Orphanage says, you can accomplish "one thing" in a day you should be feeling very proud. The pace of life, the lack of communication between government organizations and businesses all tend to bottle neck the process of "getting it done." So I have lowered my expectations dramatically. If I can accomplish one thing each day I will have an amazing week! Type A personality people may find Rwanda culture frustrating! lol

Open My Eyes Lord, I Want to See Jesus!

2011-09-08T00:15:00.000-07:00

One of the misconceptions that I grew up with was that Western Christianity had all the answers and it was our job to share this with the world. My perspective has changed...dramatically. The song "Open My Eyes Lord" is now bringing truth to the matter. God is working all over this world. My narrow view of how God works has been widened through the years. God may work one way in America and in a very different way in Africa. Same God, same message of Jesus, same "substance" but different "forms" and "styles" that the Holy Spirit uses to speak the Truth.

A problem arises when we think that "form/style" is as sacred as the "substance". It is easy to apply American, Western "forms" to Africa. We want African Christians to act and speak like American Christians. We judge that someone doesn't have a valid faith because they don't express themselves the way we do.

I have learned a lot in our 16 months in Rwanda. I have learned to open my eyes and see God working in His Kingdom in ways that I had trouble seeing. I have learned to appreciate the many "styles" and "forms" that faith comes..all the while seeing that the substance of Jesus is constant. When we step aside and begin to see God and all that He is doing around us the world becomes a much more exciting place! Maybe our role as evangelists is just that...to help people see God working in this world! How irresistible is Jesus when we are able to see Him working all around us?

Meet Esther from the Sewing Class

2011-09-02T07:18:00.000-07:00

Esther Niyonsengo
Esther was born in 1991. Her family has seven children. Esther's parents both died, her dad in 1994 (probably the genocide) and mother in 2000. Her oldest 2 sister got married and live far from her home.

Since 2007 Esther has been heading the household because she lives with 2 young brothers and a sister who was suppose to be in senior six but due to lack of tuition money she dropped out of school. Another brother is attending vocational training in carpentry work and the youngest sibling is in primary 2 (second grade).

To keep their life moving they grow some of their own food because they can’t get money to buy food. So every day her siblings work in the field.

During this time of hardship Esther got pregnant and the young man wouldn’t marry her. She is getting donations from friends to help her son, Allen, who is 1 years old.

After some time, her friends and her came up with an idea to form an association of young people who are heads of their households. Cell and Sector leaders came up with an idea of ways that they could develop themselves. Esther was invited to join a sewing class at City of Joy that would give her the skills to start her own business.

Esther hopes that her skills in making wonderful things, designs and clothes will develop into a career. She says she is encouraging her friends in the sewing class to work hard in order to improve the welfare of their families.

Women's Sponsorship Program

2011-08-29T11:34:00.000-07:00

We are starting a new sponsorship program for women. For a 12 month $30/month commitment you will sponsor at-risk/vulnerable Rwandan woman giving her one-on-one mentoring experience to better herself in business and life. It may be starting a sewing, craft, farming or goat business...whatever best meets her needs. You will receive photos and stories of her progress. We will be working hand-in-hand with the local government helping widows and at-risk women.

Many women in our neighborhood do not have the opportunities that men have. Some are widowed from the genocide, others are neglected or abused. It is City of Joy's mission to reach out to these women and give them the hope of Jesus.

Gifts are tax deductible if given through our sponsoring church. Make checks payable to:

Living Hope Community Church
7925A N. Oracle #376
Tucson, AZ 85704

Enclose on a separate piece of paper "Todd and Andria- Women of Rwanda Sponsorships".

Or if you would rather donate through paypal (not tax deductible) you can donate with the paypal button located on this blog's home page. Please write a note "Women of Rwanda Sponsorships" on the last page of the paypal donation.

Two steps forward three? steps back

2011-08-26T23:04:00.002-07:00

Trying to function as a nonprofit in Rwanda has it's challenges. The other day we met with the Land Developer for the District Government. We had done everything asked of us when it comes to negotiating privately with our neighbors to buy their land. John and Emmy (along with other government workers) had met three times over 2 months. When finally asked about price it was apparent that their idea of the value of their property wasn't in line with the actual value.

So the next step would be to get the government involved to set the price and to help residents move. The process is called expropriation. Land/house owners would receive less than what we would give them privately but it seemed to be the only option left. So we met with the Land Development guy expecting to get guidance of the next step in expropriation. Instead, we heard that they want us to continue to negotiate privately. The District wants us to write a letter to the Mayor and get his support. The District would then help us negotiate privately.

The only bright spot in this next step is if we can get the Mayor's approval. If we can obtain his support he can make sure that a fair price is given to landowners and that expropriation can be avoided. In reflection from our Thursday meeting I think everyone at the District would like to avoid the "work" of expropriation. If they really want City of Joy to succeed, like they say they would, then we will need the entire communities support.

Another option our Board talked about was the possibility of moving our project to another government chosen site. This would not be ideal but is an option. The District originally had a spot that they recommended to us that was in dire need of a school. We will keep praying that we are in line with God's timing and plan!

Architect

2011-08-24T01:16:00.000-07:00

Today we are heading into Kigali. We need to develop a master plan of City of Joy. I really don't know what to expect. Pastor John recommended this architect. The builder, Alex, that Pastor John's wife Robyn used to build their school will also be at the meeting. The big question is cost. I am hoping the architect can do a sketch of City of Joy without much time or cost.

When you think of all the components: church, private Christian boarding school, university, vocational training center, sports center, medical clinic, community center...these all need room to be built and to grow.

Electricity & Land Update

2011-08-23T06:28:00.000-07:00

On Friday John and Emmy (along with the Cell Leader, Josine) met with the landowners. We had meetings with nine landowners for the past 3 months and this was suppose to be the big "price negotiating" meeting. It ended up falling flat as landowners wanted unreasonable amounts for their property. Our mission center needs around 10 acres for the first phase of the school. It was clear that instead of negotiating privately we need to do the "official" expropriation that the government sets forth. Using the government method we will be able to have a set price/square meter and everyone will receive the same pricing. So we are in the process of finding an architect who can draw up a master plan of our mission center. Once we have all of our documents ready we submit them to the District who will then help us buy land.

Before the meeting started we had a visitors from Kigali and Ruhungo. These were executives from the power company. They came to survey our project to see if it qualifies for a special program to bring electricity to rural areas. The good news of the day is that it looks like we will qualify and that we potentially could have electricity by the end of the year!

Hope 4 Women/Dress a Girl Around the World

2011-08-18T04:25:00.000-07:00

Rachel Eggum Cinader sent me this message: "We are planning to do a Rwanda/Uganda trip in April of 2012--I'll be promoting it to my sewing friends at CCOJ. Hope 4 Women/Dress a Girl want to commit to raising the $10,000 for the sewing/community center and we will also sponsor women."

What joy this bought us today! Hope 4 Women is a division of www.Hope4Kidsinternational.org with Tom Eggum. We are very excited about our future partnership with Rachel and Tom.

Praise Report

2011-08-10T00:06:00.000-07:00

We are excited about all that God is doing in Rwanda. Yesterday Emmy and John met with local land owners and convinced them to sell part of their property to City of Joy's school project! This has been a three month negotiation and convincing. We hope to have a price for the land by next week and shortly after that make the purchase. This will give us enough property to start the primary school. Please pray for a fair price for the land!

John Kayitare's wife, Hope, is starting her fourth year of a finance degree. She should be able to get a job at a bank next year. Hope has been receiving funding from an outside source. Abruptly those funds were taken from her this fall. She was in desperate need! The money is due August 20th.

Kids Play International, Tracy Evans, stepped up to the plate and hit it out of the park! Tracy heard of Hope's need and went to action. Tracy was able to raise the money needed ($882) for the first of two semesters in less than a week. Tracy hopes to have the rest of the money for the second semester raised too. God is so good. He is good all the time!

This is Africa

2011-08-04T05:20:00.000-07:00

Yesterday our business manager, Emmy, and I traveled into Kigali (1:45min) to first pick up our nonprofit document that was signed and to meet with the electric company about getting power to our house and projects. Our meeting with the electric company went from one office to another. Finally we were directed to the office across town for the program called-Rural Roll Out Program. The Program has criteria that must be met (i.e. distance to nearest power lines, number of potential customers...) if those criteria are met we then qualify for a significant discount off the $250,000 quote that we have already received. The frustrating part is that it has taken 11 months to finally be directed to the correct department. We now will resubmit an application to this department and see if we qualify.

Between traveling to the different offices we decided to stop and pick up our nonprofit documents. We arrived at the Ministry of Justice Department and were told that the document was not ready. I reminded the woman that she had just called us yesterday to tell us we could pick it up. She told us to come back in one hour and it would be ready. So long story, somewhat short, we did receive our documents! We now need to submit them to be published in a Gazette for $400...THEN we will be an official NGO (nongovernment organization)!

Project Update

2011-07-27T00:36:00.000-07:00

City of Joy is a Mission Center and will one day include: School (nursery-secondary), University, Church, Medical Clinic, Community Center & Library, Sports Fields, Vocational Training Center & Missionary Training Center. Our first goal has been to obtain a nonprofit status for City of Joy in Rwanda. All the papers have been submitted and we are waiting. While we are waiting we have started a sewing class with 26 young women. We are training them in a 12 month program and have purchased a plot of land for a Vocational Training Center where they will be able to make a living sewing. Other community programs that we have started are: Goat Giveaway-146 goats at $30/goat have been donated; Rabbit Giveaway-49 rabbits @$3/rabbit; 1 cow has been donated ($300), an after school sports program has been started by Kids Play International that City of Joy is managing; Student Sponsorships-8 students ($52 secondary & $20 for primary students) have received money for help to go to school. Our sewing class has provided over 20 uniforms for other needy students.

City of Joy is negotiating with local land owners for school property. We hope to in the coming months purchase enough land so that we can start a nursery and kindergarten. Then as money is available we will expand our school. As with all things in Rwanda, it takes more time than expected. The cogs of government move slowly and we are patiently waiting. Electricity is one project that we have been waiting for word for almost 10 months. We hope to qualify for a Roll Out Program that would bring electricity to our neighborhood at a discount rate. The cost to bring electricity to City of Joy apart from the Roll Out Program is over $200,000!

Guesthouse Under Construction

2011-07-27T00:15:00.000-07:00

Construction in underway for a four bedroom guesthouse. With all the guests that we have had in the past 2 months we have decided that a guesthouse would be important to have. The guesthouse will be four small rooms with beds and private bathrooms. We will need around $2,000 to complete the house. We hope to have it completed by January.

The guesthouse is located on the property next our house. It will have a porch overlooking the valley. Guests will be welcome to participate in a number of projects. This past summer we worked with the local schools teaching English by using Bible stories. Mission Teams are welcome any time of the year!

Hope 4 Kids International

2011-07-19T06:19:00.000-07:00

Angie Simon from Hope 4 Kids International came and visited us for 4 days last week. She brought pillowcase dresses along and we went to a school and gave them to needy children. To see the girls eye's light up was such a good feeling. For many of them this was the first new dress they have ever worn!

Dress a Gril Around the World is part of Hope 4 Kids International. We are excited about our future relationship with this nonprofit. H4KI will return next year and will build a well in our neighborhood. We thank God for all that He is doing in Rwanda!

It Happened Again

2011-07-19T06:06:00.001-07:00

Another horrific accident scene....As we approached I saw the plastic orange sandal in the middle of the road and skid marks. A crowd had gathered. Apparently a bicyclist carrying milk from local farmers hit a young boy as he crossed the road. The impact carried them both 100 feet down the road (at the bottom of a big hill) and off into the grass. The young boy lay motionless with the raw meat of his face exposed. His skin had some how been peeled back off half of his face. The milk man had less visible injuries but we suspected internal damage.

They loaded them into the back of our car. So many people had passed by before we stopped, they told us. We rushed them to the hospital 10 minutes away in Nyanza. While we traveled I prayed that God would heal these boys. I am not one that usually has a stomach for such things, but I thank God that we were there to help.

Sewing Center Land Bought

2011-07-11T01:13:00.000-07:00

John and Emmy negotiated a plot of land (29x26 yards) for $343. We will use this land to build a Sewing Center for the sewing association. In December 33 women will graduate from our training and will need a building to develop careers. We will continue to manage the Sewing Center and it will have a profit sharing component. The new land is located directly across the street from our house.

The $343 included money for taxes as well as "beer money" for the witnesses. The contract is handwritten by the Land Development guy from the government.

Scape Goat

2011-07-09T06:23:00.000-07:00

The Old Testament story of how the priests of the Israelites would "lay hands" on a goat symbolically transferring the sins of the people onto the animal. Then the goat was let out into the desert to carry the sins away from the community. Thus the term "scape goat" was born.

We give away donated goats in Rwanda. We have given 146 donated goats to needy families. A goat can change the life of a family here. A $30 goat would be like giving someone 1 months salary in the U.S. The goats first born will be given to another needy family ....so the gift continues to give. Every time we give away goats I am reminded of the scape goat from the Old Testament. I pray that as the Israelites experienced a kind of "new start" that our neighbors in Rwanda would also have a new start from a new heart through Jesus.

Team Visits City of Joy

2011-07-06T10:11:00.000-07:00

A team from Bloomsburg Christian Church came and visited us today. They are looking for possible partnerships with our project City of Joy. We had a great time of food and fellowship. We shared our vision of a private Christian school. It was a delightful day!

Buddy our Dog

2011-07-04T22:51:00.000-07:00

I have a new exercise partner. I four legged one. In America, Sabrina, our black lab mix would run with me out in the desert. I miss those days. But one day our dog Buddy (we have two dogs that we inherited when we moved to John's farm: Buddy a male and Topie a female) started running with me....then he even ran along with me on my bike ride. Now he waits at the front door for me every morning, anxiously wanting me to get going.

Dogs aren't well liked in Rwanda. Many of our neighbors are afraid of Buddy. This morning Buddy ran up on a pig. The poor pig didn't notice him until he was right in his grill! The pig let out with a squeal and high tailed it to his owners backyard. Buddy thought all of this was great entertainment and made sure the pig knew who was boss. I yelled at Buddy to stop..after all it was 5:45am and many people were still sleeping. Buddy wanted to chase the pig some more but I convinced him to stop. I think I need the dog whisperer's help!

Kids Play International

2011-07-01T21:42:00.000-07:00

Ubushobozi Project in Ruhengeri was a fun stop for Kids Play International. There they learned now at risk young women are taught career skills and taught by qualified teachers. Kids Play International is a nonprofit that uses sports to teach children life skills. KPI was here for two weeks and started an after school sports program, donated uniforms, cleats, and other equipment to three local schools. We are so excited about the future with KPI. Next summer we hope KPI builds a basketball, volleyball and tennis court in our neighborhood! Thanks Tracy Evans and KPI!

Sharing God's Love

2011-07-01T21:29:00.000-07:00

Teaching English by using Bible stories has been quite a hit in the local schools. Every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, Pam, Michele, Cortney, Bridget and Lesa would walk to school and be greeted by the children. They became so popular that teachers were dismissing their classes to join the classes that the women were teaching! The love of Jesus was incredible. One student when asked what he liked to do answered, "Honoring God". We hope we helped these children honor God and grow in their faith.

Time for a Lightning Rod

2011-07-01T21:16:00.000-07:00

Two more people were killed by lightning. The week before a worker at the orphanage we use to work at was killed when an avocado tree was struck as he stood underneath it. He leaves a family behind. Uganda has had 35 deaths in the last round of storms. It is suppose to be the dry season! I have decided it may be smart to get a lightning rod and mount it on our house.

Kids Play International

2011-06-25T22:21:00.000-07:00

Tracy Evans, 3 time Olympian, started a non profit called Kids Play International. We met Tracy three years ago at an orphanage in Rwanda. This past week we hosted her team of eight people for a couple of weeks. She had a couple more Olympians with her (Cameron, a 4 time Olympian on the luge and Chanda, a bronze medalist in woman's hockey)...she also had Kara who makes documentaries...Well anyway, it was cool team that came to introduce sports to kids in our neighborhood. Tracy even set up an after school sports program that started last week! All in all, it was a great two weeks.

Goat Brochettes

2011-06-21T10:13:00.000-07:00

Tonight we took the girls to the road side bus stop that serves fresh goat brochettes every 10 minutes. At first Cortney, Lesa and Bridget were a little scared that the meat would be "gamey" tasting. But after their first bite they realized it was delicious! Goat is one meat that many Rwandans enjoy eating. It is cheap at 3 brochettes for $1. They put a tasty seasoning on the meat that makes it actually taste like beef.

Remembering the Genocide

2011-04-13T09:07:00.001-07:00

Today we attended the last day of a seven day Genocide Memorial. For seven days the country mourned the past and looked to the future with great hope. A few hundred people gathered in our local area called a "cell". We first met around the graves of a wealthy family killed in the 1994 Genocide. Family members and community members put flowers on their graves as prayers were said. We then walked to a nearby area next to the families' house. For the next 3.5 hours we heard stories from survivors. We heard of widows whose husbands and children were murdered while they watched. We heard from a community leader who spoke of the family whose land we were meeting. How the son of this family fought to save his family but was overwhelmed and killed himself.

What we heard over and over again was that forgiveness was key. One widow said she was "free" to live because she had forgiven. Jesus was her husband now. She prayed that those who have killed would come clean and ask for forgiveness so the too could live "free". My emotions were raw today. I imagine it will take some time to reflect on everything that I experienced today. As I sat and listened to Emmy translate for us, I was again so grateful for Jesus and his grace. Certainly Jesus grace was sufficient!

Updated Business Plan

2011-04-08T21:28:00.000-07:00

Project Overview

• “City of Joy” will be a comprehensive Christian community of services and experiences offered to all ages.

• City of Joy will be located in the Village of Bikire, Ngwa Cell, Mukingo Sector, Nyanza District, South Province, Rwanda.

• The first phase will be the primary school-Joy Christian School (JCS).

City of Joy

Vision:

A Christ-centered community of loving God and loving others.

Mission:

City of Joy, a faith- inspired organization, empowering people with Christian passion. Through formal and informal programs and experiences, City of Joy will achieve its core value of creating a community of grace.

Value:

To create a community of grace where the love of God is manifested in the love of neighbor through faith development, intellectual formation and community services (concern for the poor and marginalized).

Joy Christian School

Vision:

To form Christ-like, intellectually competent and socially responsible leaders of tomorrow.

Mission:

Joy Christian School, a faith inspired-organization, aims at empowering people with Christian passion, intellectual competency and strong social concern. Through formal and informal education, and economic empowering programs, Joy Christian School will achieve its core value of creating a community of grace.

Value:

To create a community of grace where the love of God is manifested in the love of neighbor through faith development, competent intellectual formation and community services (concern for the poor and marginalized)

Why Joy Christian School (JCS)?

1. Christian Values

-Loving God and loving others is the basis of the Christian faith and this

can change the world by challenging our students to exemplify Jesus’ life.

2. Education system (recent change from French to English):

-Need for Strong and affordable English medium school. Currently, majority of poor and middle class Rwandans cannot afford quality education because of high charges by private schools.

-Due to shortage of good English Medium schools, many parents send their children to neighboring countries, Uganda and Kenya.

3. Social Economic Realities:

-Great need for economic empowerment of rural and poor urban communities (people who cannot afford quality education for their children).

-Great need for socio-spiritual accompaniment due to the effects of the 1994 genocide.

Critical Factors/Hopes and Challenges

• Strengths

– Founders’ international experience and English as their first language.

– Co-founder is an experienced teacher.

– Have initial capital to buy land

– Dependable collaborators and supporters (churches and charities)

– Strong Local and international network

• Weakness

– Both founders are not of Rwandese origin.

– Dependence on donors and well wishers to fund the project.

– Brand equity (new in the market).

• Opportuninities

– Stable political atmosphere.

– Accordance with recent changes in academic shift from French to English medium of learning.

– No strong competition.

– High demand.

– Low living and operation costs.

– Many people from USA willing to volunteer as teachers and Staff.

• Challenges

– How to secure students who can contribute financially.

– Enough source of Funds.

– Competitors can copy our strategy.

Concept of JCS Beneficiaries

u 472,000 children in Muhanga and Nyanza*

u 25% (118, 125) of children are from upper middle class families which can afford tuition and boarding fees.

u35% (165, 200) are children of civil servants, small business holders, and farmers who can afford tuition fee and a certain percent of accommodation charges. These will need partial scholarships.

u40% (188,800) are rural and poor urban residents; and orphans. Although they cannot afford private education, they can contribute to tuition fees through part-time jobs at JCS.

* Our estimates of the population of Muhanga and Nyanza, our target areas, is approximately 1.5 million. We assume that pre-school and school going children make up to 30% of the population

Joy Christian School’s Service Plan

Plan 1

• Upper Middle Class

– Will pay full tuition fees.

– Will pay up to 80% accommodation and transportation fees.

• Plan 2.

• Middle Class

– Will pay 75% of tuition fees

– Will have the options to either pay up to 80% accommodation cost or to be day scholars and pay 50% of daily transport organized by Joy.

Plan 3

• Rural and Urban poor

– Highly subsidized tuition and accommodation fees.

– Parent will offer contribution in the form of labor—each parent will do work at JCS once a week and the payment will go into tuition fees.

– Rural farmers will be given the opportunity to sell their produce (food stuff and animal to JCS at a competitive price) and pay certain percentage to JCS for tuition and accommodation fees.

– They will be a priority for accommodation at school since they have no electricity and other amenities that support learning at home.

• Plan 4

– Community service through informal education whereby JCS will engage rural and urban parents in income generating activities that will enable them to contribute toward education of their children at JCS.

Financial Forecasts-JCS

Summary of Financial forecasts

• Average tuition fee per child per year (year 1 to 6) $200.

• Average salary per month $400 per person ($4,800/year/person).

• Cost of Construction of one classroom is $12,065. Total construction cost (20 rooms by year 7) will be $241,300.

• Teacher student ration is 1:20.

• Aggressive fundraising of up to $560,000 by year 7.

• Optimal use of facilities to generate income of $39,000 by the end year 7.

• Beginning of year 8 capital expenditure will decrease; less construction of classrooms and offices.

• Services revenue will increase beginning of year 8; wedding, conference, summer camping, sports, etc charges.

Future Projects

• Community Church – weekly services, daily chapel time for students.

• Community Medical Clinic –serve the school and neighborhood.

• Community Center.

– Public Library.

– Recreation Center with swimming pool, weight room, gymnasium, practice fields.

• Fully accredited University.

• Housing for staff.

• Dormitories for children primary and secondary schools.

• Vocational training center – English classes, sewing, agriculture, carpentry…

• Conference Center- host weddings and events- income generator.

• Missionary Training Center.

– Help train those called to be missionaries all around the world.

Action Plan

Benefits to the Community

• Economic Impact- create over 100 jobs in first three years.

• Resources – many of the facilities will be open to the community to use.

– Public Library, Recreation Center with swimming pool, weight room, gymnasium, practice fields.

• Increase property values.

• Attract many new business and families to relocate.

• Vocational training center – sewing, agriculture, carpentry…

• Conference Center.

• Missionary Training Center.

– Help train those called to be missionaries all around the world.

• Teaching English to the adults-starting Jan. 2012.

Sewing Group Continues to Learn

2011-03-09T04:57:00.000-08:00

A group of 16 young women are two months into a 12 month internship to learn how to sew. Our neighbor Mediatrice is teaching the course. Mediatrice has taught sewing for seven years at Kabgayi and does an excellent job. The women come everyday 8am-1pm to our house and learn the basics of sewing. We built a sewing room where there is plenty of room and it is well lit. We recently found out that all but 3 women do not have health insurance. Through a donation we are able to offer six months of insurance to all 13 women and 3 of their babies. We hope to have projects for them to make some money for the start of an association. One project that they are working on is to make uniforms for children who cannot afford them. These uniforms will be given to needy children for free.

Land Cruiser Gets An Overhaul

2011-03-08T23:58:00.000-08:00

We finally made the decision that our engine needed the over haul this week. We have knew that sooner or later we would have to "bite the bullet" and sink some serious money into the Land Cruiser. So on Monday I drove it into Gitarama and dropped it off at Kabgayi Garage where Juvenal will rip apart the entire engine and evaluate what needs to be replaced. It is funny that the same feelings of being taken advantage of happen here as well in the U.S. when it comes to mechanics. I have assigned Emmy, our business manager, the task of making sure that we don't pay for anything unnecessarily but I know that there is no guarantee that this won't happen. Juvenal was gracious enough to loan me his Honda motorcycle while he works on our vehicle. We live 45 minutes away from the garage so it is nice to have.

Schools Everywhere

2011-02-16T02:06:00.000-08:00

We have had the honor of traveling around to visit our neighborhood schools. What we have learned is that we have 5 schools within a five mile radius. So why do we need to build another school?

As we have talked with headmasters and teachers the same issues have been brought up again and again: lack of teacher training, low attendance in secondary schools and lack of funding for schools in general. As our City of Joy project starts those are our goals: to become a training center and resource center for our community!

Loving God and Loving Others

2011-02-16T01:56:00.000-08:00

Our mission verse is the Great Commandment from Matthew 22 where Jesus basically tells us to "love God and to love others"! Today I am amazed and humbled as to how that is playing out at our mission project "City of Joy". The farm we are living on is bustling with activity.

Suzanne Evans and Susan Hearn are nurses from America. They have brought medicine and other donated items. They have been our guests for the past couple of weeks. Today they gave out donated bath and body items to our sewing group. The young woman's eyes were as large as saucers as they were given lotions and shampoo. They were so grateful. Now the ladies are out in the neighborhood giving items away.

I like what Francis of Assisi said "preach the Word of God every day, and if necessary use words". Today it is about the hands and feet of Jesus sharing his love through actions. Loving God and loving others.....

Vehicle Woes

2011-02-07T20:39:00.000-08:00

We did everything we could to make sure we were getting a good vehicle. We brought it to a "certified" mechanic that we had used numerous times. He looked it over and said that it was in "good" shape. Since then we have replaced the water pump, fuel pump and filter and clutch. Now we are faced with an engine overhaul. I am not a "nuts and bolts" guy but apparently the diesel engine is blowing oil through into the air filter. A compression test done at the one and only garage that has such equipment, shows that we are at a "25" and the minimum range is a "27" so we are below the scale. So worst case scenario, replace the whole engine with a rebuilt engine. But this is risky because apparently you really don't know what you are getting with rebuilt engines OR....just start tearing apart the engine and replace whatever you find is wrong. Either way we are talking about a $4,000-$5,000 bill. We paid almost $12,000 for the 1994 Land Cruiser which is really a good price..so I have been hearing. I guess it isn't unusual to have this happen. The conditions of the roads and poor maintenance often lead to major repairs. The price of parts is what is so unbelievable. Rwanda is not an inexpensive place to live. Labor is VERY cheap but the cost of goods can take your breath away.

We will probably use Kabgayi Garage in Gitarama. Juvenile is the head mechanic there. He is young and seems to know what he is doing. The vehicle will get fixed in less than a week whereas the dealership garage in Kigali would need it for 2.5 weeks. We will have Juvenile take apart the engine and see what needs replacement...it could be that an engine replacement is the best option over piece-mealing it. Either way we will wait until our guests leave on Feb. 24th.

It has been a great utility truck. Hauling people, construction material and even goats. It is a long term investment that will need a few dollars to get it up to snuff.

Friends Come To Visit

2011-02-07T00:16:00.000-08:00

We still enjoy keeping in contact with our friends from Gitarama. On Saturday they traveled by public van to Gatagara. They called and we came and picked them up at the highway. We brought them to the pottery place next to Gatagara Hospital. The pottery is made by the Twa (Pygmy) tribe. It is so beautiful! Everyone bought some pieces for themselves or for family and friends. We then took them back to see our farm. It was fun to have guests and to see them enjoy our "farm livin'". After a short visit we headed into Kigali dropping off all but two in Gitarama. Karen and Heather stayed with us as we went into the big city. We got rooms for the night in St. Paul's Hostel. The beds were uncomfortable but the price can't be beat.

Nurses Come to City of Joy

2011-02-04T02:15:00.000-08:00

Suzanne Evans arrived on Wednesday and plans on doing some basic health outdoor clinics and also plans on going to the schools to help children learn about good health practices. Andria and I worked hard trying to get our house ready for guests. Susan Hearn, Suzanne's cousin, is also a nurse and will be arriving in a week. We spent time going to the District office yesterday to file the proper papers for permission for the outdoor clinics. We should hear back next week.
Here Suzanne reads to the neighbors. She loves to take walks through the neighborhoods and plays with the children. She took Emmanuel with her as a translator. The hills make it for a great workout too!

It is fun having guests. Suzanne made us French toast this morning. This weekend we will go into Kigali and spend the weekend running errands and enjoying the city. Suzanne's daughter, Tracy, has been our friend for a couple of years when we met at an orphanage in Gitarama. We saw her again this past summer as she was with her team from "Kids Play International". KPI is a nonprofit that introduces sports to disadvantaged children all over the world. They donated $1,000's to Rwanda last year and are planning a return trip this summer.

We hope to partner with Kids Play international as we develop our new Mission Center (City of Joy)- made up of a: church, school, community center and medical center.

Business is Business

2011-01-20T20:29:00.000-08:00

I am out for my morning jog and often times people will run with me. The first person ran up the long hill with me while wearing big rubber boots! On the way back I heard someone else coming up from behind. As we neared our gate he said, "I have a thought for you". I didn't know exactly what he meant but I played along. He told me that he had written a letter. He revealed a large brown envelop and handed it to me. I opened the sealed container and began to read. His name is Cyprien. In four pages of beautiful penmanship Cyprien wrote about his life. He explained how he had to drop out of school because of money. He talked about how the neighborhood now had hope and had changed drastically since our arrival.

Then he spelled out a business plan for four enterprises: bicycle taxi, phone charging station, movie & music entertainment, tea & coffee house. I was very impressed with this young man. God has given him a clear vision of a future that betters not only his own life but the lives of others. Cyprien is looking for a loan to start these businesses. I have heard that some people are doing micro-loans and will research to see if we can connect him with a loan. I pray that Cyprien will continue to dream and hope as he loves Jesus!

Umuganda

2011-01-20T04:19:00.000-08:00

Yesterday (Wednesday) was Umuganda for our Cell. Umuganda is a 1/2 day set aside for community projects. EVERYONE is required to participate. The national umuganda is the last Saturday of each month from 8am-11am. Our Cell has a umuganda each Wednesday morning. I found this out as we drove to meet the Cell Leader, She was in the middle of organizing the villages (smaller groups of families) into this weeks project. As we rounded the corner of a "cow path" in our Land Cruiser, I saw about 300 people cultivating and planting. It was amazing display of community action! Apparently the field was chosen to be a "shared" field and everyone will benefit from the cassava that they planted. Cassava is a white root that Rwandans use for all kinds of food. I can't stand the taste! Apparently their is little or no nutritional value in cassava and yet it is so easy to grow that everyone uses it.

As we walked around through the muddy fields I waved and greeted everyone. I even held a baby for a brief moment. It almost feels like we are politicians shaking hands and kissing babies. Part of what we are doing is building trust with our neighbors and it is important for them to see us as their neighbors.

We waited until the project was over and were hoping to meet with the 20 women that would start sewing on Monday. What I realized was that there was a lot more happening in the official business than I knew. Speaker after speaker stood in the middle of the crowd and shared information. This was their "news" time. One primary school teacher talked about the upcoming election, the other three speakers also spent time addressing the crowds.

Finally we met with our 20 women....well that was suppose to be the group. But apparently some of the men were also interested in some help. The men would like carpentry training and work. So after an hour of talking we told everyone that sewing would start on Monday and carpentry would be something that we would look at to offer the men.

We hopped in our Land Cruiser and I looked into the back and 12 people had also climbed in with us. We stuck it into four wheel drive and made our way back up the muddy path to the gravel road. It took 3 hours but it was a good meeting and a good community building event.

Christmas in Rwanda

2011-01-02T20:50:00.000-08:00

We had our first Christmas in Rwanda. I wasn't sure what to expect but I knew it would be different than Christmas in America....and it was. It has been such a blessing to have found Christ Church of Rwanda (CCR). CCR is located in Kigali so we drive into the big city to attend the weekend service. Pastor Dave Jenkins and everyone have done a good job of welcoming us into our new church.

CCR had worship services on Friday night (Christmas Eve), Saturday morning (Christmas day) and on Sunday for a regular worship service. After worship on Sunday we were all treated to a delicious catered lunch which was a mix of traditional Rwanda type food and also typical American cuisine. So Andria and I spent time celebrating Jesus' birth by worshipping at CCR.

Santa even showed up after worship and before the lunch.

So Santa looked a little different but hey, we are in Africa! I think the biggest difference (and remember this is from a very limited perspective) is that the commercialism of Christmas isn't near the level of America. Some department stores had Christmas tress and lights as well as even Santa..but nowhere near the hype of America. I was also surprised with the lack of church attendance on Christmas Eve. Pastor Dave said a lot of families are at their families "Catholic" churches. Attendance was lower on Christmas Eve than it is on a typical Sunday.
But apart from the attendance and "hype" stuff it just felt very different. Being our first Christmas I am sure that it will evolve as we go. It actually was quite refreshing to be able to relax and enjoy and focus on the real "reason for the season".

Donated Goats Given Away

2010-12-25T06:36:00.001-08:00

1pm was the set time for the donated goat giveaway. Then the time changed (as it often does) to 2pm. We called the Cell Leader to check to see if people had arrived at 2:20pm. She said she would call us when it was time to come...a very nice gesture because things often start late here. The phone finally rang at 3:30pm and we drove the 10 minutes to the cell office. When we arrived we were greeted by 100 children and adults! This was much more than just a goat presentation. It was a party! Dancing, singing, speeches, more singing and dancing! It was a true celebration of saying thank you to those who donated goats. The impact was so huge that it left me with a feeling of purpose. Something so simple yet so powerful...

Three groups had been picked from for the goats: Cell/Village Leaders, Orphans who were head of households, and the Twa (Pygmy) Tribe. All three groups all in great need. Many more than 30 families showed up....some hoping that we had more goats to give. I promised the Cell Leader that we would continue to donate goats.

Everyone was given specific instructions on what to do with their goat. First, you can not eat or sell the goat. Second, the goat's first born must be shared with someone in need in the community. The Sector will be doing follow-ups to make sure that this gift continues to give. A record of the first born will be made and so the gift will keep on giving!

The Goats Have Been Delivered

2010-12-25T06:05:00.000-08:00

We drove into a sea of humanity at the livestock market in Ruhango. Cows and goats are everywhere! Andria and I were the only "white" folks to be seen so we drew a crowd as we walked around looking for 30 goats to buy. John knew exactly what he was looking to buy and pay for the goats. At first we asked a couple of the Rwanda men to go and get the goats for us. With hundreds of goats to choose from we thought we could count on a few guys to do our "dirty" work. But it was soon apparent that we would have to do our own screening. We first ran into a problem because we didn't have enough 1,000 Rwf bills to make the 13,000 Rwf that we were buying the goats. So Andria and I made a quick dash to the local Fina Bank where our friend Innocent is the branch manager. Thinking by the time we get back that we would be well on our way to the 3o goats. Well, like all things in Rwanda, it takes a little longer than planned. Everyone thought that their goat was the best and deserved a sale. Finally after five goats bought we began to write down the names of the people selling using their national ID card. With so many goats being bought we wanted to make sure we were buying from legitimate sellers. Children and adults all crowded around as the muzungus (that's what they call anybody with money and means) began to buy goats. Finally we had our 3o goats. Then we had to pay the Revenue Authority for tax on each goat which came out to a little over $1 per goat. We decided that we could haul the goats in our Land Cruiser. The idea of poop and pee all over the inside of our vehicle wasn't the greatest but it would be very expensive to hire someone to haul the goats the 30 minutes to Gatagara. We had lots of help loading up the goats. The goats behaved quite well other than a lot of noise. We arrived at the Cell Office and unloaded the goats into a classroom because it still was 2 hours before the give-away.

What do we eat in Rwanda?

2010-12-18T03:07:00.000-08:00

What in the world do we eat in Rwanda? Good question. Here are some photos of what is in our house. We have found that you have to be creative to make meals. Andria is doing such an incredible job developing her cooking skills. She rarely cooked/baked in the U.S., now she is in the kitchen experimenting all the time. We have a lot of canned goods on our shelves. We have found that beans bought at the market (fresh) are not so easily prepared. It takes hours for those fresh beans to cook. So we buy our beans in cans. The fruit is delicious here. Above is a papaya. It is very tasty when mixed with other more sugar filled fruit. Bananas are so sweet! The little ones are our favorite. We have made many loaves of banana bread from these little gems.

Last night Andria made fresh tortillas and we had bean burritos. She has also made scones, banana pancakes, bread sticks and even a cake! It is the daily challenge to make things that we enjoy eating. Rice is always a good staple in Rwanda so we too have rice quite often. We usually will get string beans, tomatoes, onions, bell peppers and garlic at the market and use them in a stir fry.

District Meeting Friday, December 17th

2010-12-18T02:21:00.001-08:00

We met with the Secretary of the Joint Action Development Forum on Friday. Andria, John and I walked into her office and spent some time presenting our business plan. She was very encouraging. I spoke for the first few minutes and asked if she would like me to go over our powerpoint presentation. That is when she asked a question that I didn't quite understand. That was about the last word I spoke as John took over and carried on a conversation with her for the next 20 minutes. From the voice inflection it sounded like things were going well.

Sure enough at the end of the conversation John translated everything and basically said that she would present our project to the Joint Action Development Team next week and we would hear back from her on Friday, December 24th. Wow! It went better than I imagined. The woman then spoke to Andria and I directly and said that she was very excited that we were building a school in their district.

We left the District office encouraged. We then went to the next "lower" government agency the Sector and gave them a copy of the business plan so that they knew what was going on. What a day! We thank God for creating this opportunity!

Volcano National Park

2010-12-11T01:01:00.000-08:00

On Wednesday we climbed Bisoke, a volcano at over 12,000 feet high. There are nine volcanos in the park bordering the Congo and Uganda. The mountain gorilla brings tourists from all over the world. Dian Fossey's work lives on with 56 tracking permits given each day to go see the gorillas. But there is other hikes available like Bisoke...and that is what we did.

Two Belgium, a Norwegian and two Americans

2010-12-10T01:38:00.001-08:00

We went camping and hiking with part of the Belgium and Norwegian group. They were the five twenty-somethings that traveled around Rwanda showing films to rural Rwandans. They invited us to go along with them to Lake Burera and to climb Bisoke volcano. We left on Sunday and drove to Ruhengeri to camp at the Fatima Hotel. Monday we drove up to Lake Butera and parked in the yard of a friend of our guide, Innocent. We then hired bicycles to take us 6 kilometers to the road that encircles Lake Butera.

Lake Burera sits in the foothills of Volcano National Park. There are three active volcanos and six extinct ones. The view was so beautiful I felt like we were part of a postcard.
As we hiked along the gravel road we met some very interesting people. Children especially enjoyed following us. Two young girls walked with us for 4 hours. They were on their weekly trip to their grandparent's house carrying supplies for them. When we stopped to rest they stopped. We even bought them sodas! Tone and Andria felt so bad for them that they carried their supplies for part of the trip.
At one point it started to rain. We considered setting up a tent but decided to see if we could find a house to wait out the rain. Without knowing us a family opened up their home. It was probably a good 30 minutes before it stopped raining. During that time we witnessed:a chicken being carried out from the back room, the 1 year old waking up and being breast fed, the children all singing Sunday school songs and other songs....This families hospitality was so incredible. Our guide, Innocent, translated for us even thought the father new English.

As we neared the waterfall our crowd grew!

Rusumo Falls was breathtaking. We received permission to camp at the base of the falls. The tremendous sound of water rushing brought a good night sleep!
The next morning Innocent was able to contact a restaurant that had a motor boat. After a 40 minute nail-bitting, steep hike down the river we came to Lake Burera. Within an hour we had our boat and headed back toward our vehicle.

I took a motorcycle taxi back to our vehicle.

Gabgayi Garage

2010-12-10T01:31:00.001-08:00

So this morning I wake up and our front driver's side tire is 1/2 flat. What do you do in rural Rwanda when you have a flat tire? You call your Rwandan friends, Emmy and John, to find out where to go. Emmy recommended Kabgayi Garage in Gitarama. It is 45 minutes away but they are a reputable garage that we have used in the past. So I drive to Kabgayi and find out that to have tire service down you have to go to the garage down the road. So Juvenile, the head mechanic, takes my vehicle to the garage and we find out that only the valve was leaking...not the tire. But he did find that the brake pads needed changing as well as the oil. So here I sit in my vehicle writing this post as mechanics and about (12 interns) work on my vehicle. As I am writing I look behind my vehicle and see a woman selling pineapple to the employees. She has a knife and is cutting the delicious fruit for them after they buy them. I wonder how much she is charging the "locals" for them. We typically will pay 350 rwf for the biggest pineapples (about 60 cents).

Rwamagana Lutheran School

2010-11-18T08:44:00.000-08:00

Today we went a visited Rwamagana Lutheran School. Our new friends, Pastor John and Robyn, started this boarding school. Actually it is Robyn's baby but John is behind her 100%. So we traveled the 3 hours to get to Rwamagana. We had seen the building under construction and really liked the design so we were excited to see the building complete. We weren't disappointed. The two story building is beautiful. Robyn spent time explaining everything from good architects to use, builders that we could hire --to tips of what went well and what did not as she navigated the challenges of construction in Rwanda.

RLS has started with two classes of senior 1 (seventh grade). They will slowly bring other grades in but have plans for a dormitory soon so that children can stay on campus and revenue can be brought in. Robyn would like to start an association of protestant private schools so that we can learn from one another and share resources like teacher training. It was a great meeting today and we are excited to present our plan to the District and get going on construction soon!

Painting Outside the Lines

2010-11-17T06:11:00.000-08:00

Isaac and Serena Tyrrell (and their 4 yr. old Henry) have become our good friends in Rwanda. They run the Victory Orphanage 20 minutes outside of Kigali. Yesterday we spent the day helping them paint a couple of exterior buildings. They are leaving to visit America on Saturday and their "boss" is coming while they are gone. A paint job is the best way to make an old, tired building look decent. So we spent the day rolling some deep stucco'd exterior. Isaac had some business to attend to in Kigali so he showed up after lunch. Kelly, from New Zealand, and a couple of the children also helped us paint.

Race Day at Church!

2010-11-17T00:05:00.000-08:00

Last Sunday, Nov. 14th we attended Christ's Church of Rwanda. We had been told of this great church by Mike, the guy building the girl's school past Nyamata. The trip to our first service was quite eventful. The Tour of Rwanda bicycle race was having their women's division start just as we were pulling out of the MTN Center's parking lot. We were stopped by a police officer and race official. Nobody spoke English so we spent the next 30 minutes trying to play charades and find out what was going on. We discovered as team cars zipped by with signs from neighboring countries and then bicyclist, that we were in the middle of a big race. So we sat back and enjoyed cheering them on. Apparently they were making laps past our spot, because we kept seeing the same racers over and over again. Finally the attendant told us that we could go. I think she may have been in error because no one else was on the streets but 1,000's of people who were there to cheer on their countries female racers all looked at us kind of funny as we sped past. We got to the end of the closure and over 30 cars were still being stopped and unable to travel on this main street,

We arrived at CRR probably 30 minutes late and were immediately struck at what a great neighborhood they were in. This was an upscale division with large, nice houses. We entered the church and were greeted by high school boys handing out bulletins. All of them were white and looked like our teens from our church. Before we made it through the lobby another man introduced himself as Bryan, the Executive Site Director. Long story short, Bryan told us all about the church, private school and briefly about CCR's vision of reaching the Rwanda "Thinkers". No sooner than we said goodbye to him did Pastor Dave Jenkins (American, http://jenkinsinrwanda.blogspot.com) come walking in. Apparently he out and about and just came back. He immediately made us feel welcome by introducing us to CCR.

By the time we made it into church we had missed 1/2 the service. But we found out that we were in good company. Everyone was late because of the road closures. The service was very comfortable and flowed beautiful. Music was lead by a Rwandan man named Moses. How can you go wrong with a man leading us named Moses?! We enjoyed singing English and Kinyarwandan praise songs as well as a hymn or two. The sermon was on Joseph and how complicated the relationships of his family were. The message really spoke to Andria and I.

Pastor Dave reminded me of a childhood pastor that had a huge impact on my life, Pastor Jim Hanson. Dave was very laid back and had a familiarity that was refreshing. Most of all you sensed God's Spirit speaking through him. We are returning there next week and will be inquiring about their school in hopes of receiving ideas about our own school start.

We praise God that he continues to lead us to meaningful relationships.

Going to Church

2010-11-07T02:22:00.001-08:00

This morning we went to an Anglican Church. It was an interesting experience. Here are some random thoughts: The service lasted over 2 hours. The contemporary, English service was lead by Rwandans and another muzungu. The music was contemporary. The electronic keyboard player lead the music. It was familiar songs. The acoustics were terrible with a large sanctuary that echoed terribly. But the choirs and music were well done.

The sermon was all about who we are all called to bring people to Jesus. The bible reading was Daniel and the lion's den and how the King was brought to the realization of Daniel's God because of Daniel's witness. The sermon was well done and easy to follow. Looking around people really seemed to be enjoying their worship experience. There must have been over 200 people there. Children were dismissed 1/2 way through for Sunday school.

A funny side note was when the pastor said that we should bring all personal objects up with us for communion because there had been thefts of phones and purses. It actually was refreshing to hear the honesty of a messy and embarrassing situation. Everything was pretty much scripted out and was very similar to the Lutheran liturgy that I grew up with. You could tell from fashion and clothes that we were not in rural Rwanda. People dressed very nice. Men dressed in suites and ties.

The pastor made reference that Rwanda claims to be a christian country and yet the evil genocide would say otherwise. He challenged everyone to bear fruit that was good. Even today, the pastor said, people are not bearing good fruit and therefore he questions their faith. How can we say that we are a Christian nation and not have good fruit.

Theoneste the Contractor

2010-11-02T07:19:00.001-07:00

When everything started falling apart in our newly rented house my frustration level went with it! I was so angry that no matter what I did things were not getting done and I was paying too much for nothing. Tom, who works for Food for the Hungry, said that their was a Kigali contractor named "The Teacher" who all the "muzungus" (whites) use for projects. I called "The Teacher" and, to make a long story somewhat short, I hired him. He is now working on our home as we are trying to get water to the house, electricity that works from our generator and a counter and sink for our kitchen.

"The Teacher" real name is Theoneste (ignore the "h" when pronouncing it). He is called The Teacher because of all the people he has taught vocational skills. He can do just about anything from refrigeration to plumbing. He often will use local help. This was good because it takes him over 2 hours of bus and motorcycle riding for him to get to our place in Gatagara.

Theoneste loves to talk. His English is very good which makes it a pleasure to converse. Today we spent a few hours with him. He has become a good friend over the past three weeks. He even helps us shop for items that we need. Like today he helped us buy car insurance and a tail light bulb for our Land Cruiser. As we were winding our shopping down he asked us if we wanted to go and see where he lived. We said "absolutely".

We ended up driving down a rough dirt road. This isn't unusual for any neighborhood. Almost all of Kigali is made up of rough, rutted dirt roads. Only the paved main streets are smooth and comfortable. We parked and Theoneste asked a friend who happened to be at a little shop there, to watch or vehicle for us. For the next 10-15 minutes we followed him through a path of mud brick homes. The path was rutted and adventurous. Theoneste joked "welcome to the Kigali slums". Kids and adults all waved and hollered at us as we made our way through the incredible maze of homes. The entire neighborhood was on a steep mountain which when it rained became quiet the system of small rivers. Homes were almost on top of each other with the steep slope. People looked quite poor but very happy as they greeted us.

Finally we arrived at Theoneste's house. He was so proud to show us the work he had done. As we talked he told us about how the Presidents Vision 20/20 (by the year 2020) would mean that this neighborhood would become a zoo! Yes, monkeys and large trees will be brought in and everyone will receive money for their property. Theoneste shared stories about life in Rwanda. How friends had been killed in the war. He brought out a photo album and explained how he met his wife and had two kids. He talked about healing and reconciliation in Rwanda and how important it is to have your heart with peace. Jesus is alive in Africa!

As I left Theoneste's house I thought about Jesus who was the ultimate "Teacher"! He discipled (taught) 12 men everything he knew. His life was a living example of how to love God and love others. Theoneste was following a great example. Jesus can transform lives!

As I left Theoneste I prayed that his vision of true reconciliation would be a reality. I prayed that his faith would remain strong! Joshua 1:9

Sling Box Anyone?

2010-10-31T04:40:00.000-07:00

We are truly spoiled. Before we left America we heard from our friend, Ron Fedri, that there was a device called the sling box. It could be hooked up to someones cable TV and wireless internet system enabling someone to watch that TV from their computer! So yesterday we watched Oprah as she had on the cast of Sound of Music (we had Mike record it on his DVR). Some days the signal is too slow to even get five minutes of a program but yesterday our internet connection was pretty good.

The Sound of Music is one of those musicals that stirs the soul. As I watched Oprah and heard from the cast (it was the 45th anniversary of the musical). I was once again left inspired. There is something about music combined with a great story of someone who overcomes that brings me inspiration. In some ways we are Julie Roberts character who seemingly comes against a roadblock to her passion (the children). I think about the roadblocks we have been dealing with lately: An orphanage, finances, a country struggling to comeback after a genocide, living in another country trying to get a house livable....the list goes on and on.

I remember hearing an evangelist at North Heights Lutheran Church in Roseville, MN. He said that God took the negative of the cross (he pointed to the cross piece of the cross on the wall) and made it a positive (he showed how the cross is actually a "plus" sign). Lately I have been resting in the promises of God. God will not leave me or forsake me (Joshua 1:5). Jesus loves me and will provide for me. Promise after promise I read in the Bible that God always comes through! Obstacles turn to opportunities, negatives turn to positives if you allow God to bring faith and possibility into the situation.

As my heart was warmed by the Sound of Music I am even more inspired by God's Spirit living inside of me creating dreams, music and hope!

Inhaling Diesel Fumes

2010-10-31T04:28:00.000-07:00

Here I sit next to our diesel generator. It is loud, smelly and vibrates the ground beneath it. Something has gone wrong with our wiring..again. And we are left with no power. So being "jack of all trades, master of none" I jump into action and wire up an outlet with spare wires. So we are left charging all of our things (i.e. computers, back up battery, cell phones) outside next to our generator. By the way, we bought a "extra quiet" generator so that we can't hear it when it is on...WRONG! The thing is quite noisy. I can barely hear myself think right now. Rwanda is full of fun experience every day. As I am sitting here I notice that it looks like rain so I would imagine I will be taking this inside soon.

There is a phrase used commonly by "amuzungus" (whites) is: This is Africa (TIA). While we certainly can't complain that we have a house, water, food and usually electricity, it is kind of amusing how we bring our American ideas of how things should get done over here. But then I am reminded as I sit next to my stinky generator: TIA!

As I look around our beautiful neighbors I am humbled and often times ashamed at my American attitude. How can I be complaining about generators and hot water when my neighbors struggle to survive. God has a way of refocusing me and letting me know that being a Christ follower is about sacrifice not comfort. So next time I complain about "This is Africa", remind me that I am serving a God who gave up everything on the cross so that I may have this life to live!

Business Plan

2010-10-27T00:05:00.000-07:00

This is a rough draft of our business plan. It is copied off a Powerpoint presentation so it looks a little odd. If you would like I can send you a copy of the actual Powerpoint.

City of Joy
Vision:
To form a Christ-centered community of God’s grace by being a “light on a hill” for all.

Mission:
City of Joy, a faith- inspired organization, empowering people with Christian passion. Through formal and informal programs and experiences, City of Joy will achieve its core value of creating a community of grace.

Value:
To create a community of grace where the love of God is manifested in the love of neighbor through faith development, intellectual formation and community services (concern for the poor and marginalized).

Joy Christian School-JCS (boarding school)
Vision:
To form Christ-like, intellectually competent and socially responsible leaders of tomorrow.

Mission:
Joy Christian School, a faith inspired-organization, aims at empowering people with Christian passion, intellectual competency and strong social concern. Through formal and informal education, and economic empowering programs, JCS will achieve its core value of creating a community of grace.

Value:
To create a community of grace where the love of God is manifested in the love of neighbor through faith development, competent intellectual formation and community services (concern for the poor and marginalized)

Why Joy Christian School?
1. Christian Values
-Loving God and loving others is the basis of the Christian faith and this
can change the world by challenging our students to exemplify Jesus' life.
2. Education system (recent change from French to English):
-Need for Strong and affordable English medium school. Currently, majority of poor and middle class Rwandans cannot afford quality education because of high charges by private schools.
-Due to shortage of good English Medium schools, many parents send their children to neighboring countries, Uganda and Kenya.
3. Social Economic Realities:
-Great need for economic empowerment
of rural and poor urban communities (people who cannot afford quality education for their children).
-Great need for socio-spiritual accompaniment due to the effects of the 1994 genocide.

Critical Factors/Hopes and Challenges
Strengths
Founders’ international experience and English as their first language.
Co-founder is an experienced teacher.
Have initial capital to buy land
Dependable collaborators and supporters (churches and charities)
Strong Local and international network
Weakness
Both founders are not of Rwandese origin.
Dependence on donors and well wishers to fund the project.
Brand equity (new in the market).

Opportuninities
Stable political atmosphere.
Accordance with recent changes in academic shift from French to English medium of learning.
No strong competition.
High demand.
Low living and operation costs.
Many people from USA willing to volunteer as teachers and Staff.
Challenges
How to secure clients who can contribute financially.
Enough source of Funds.
Competitors can copy our strategy.

Concept of JCS Beneficiaries
472,000 children in Muhanga and Nyanza*

25% (118, 125) of children are from upper middle class families which can afford tuition and boarding fees.

35% (165, 200) are children of civil servants, small business holders, and farmers who can afford tuition fee and a certain percent of accommodation charges. These will need partial scholarships.

40% (188,800) are rural and poor urban residents; and orphans. Although they cannot afford private education, they can contribute to tuition fees through part-time jobs at JCS.

* Our estimates of the population of Muhanga and Nyanza, our target areas, is approximately 1.5 million. We assume that pre-school and school going children make up to 30% of the population
Joy Christian School's Service Plan
Plan 1
Upper Middle Class
Will pay full tuition fees.
Will pay up to 80% accommodation and transportation fees.

Plan 2.
Middle Class
Will pay 75% of tuition fees
Will have the options to either pay up to 80% accommodation cost or to be day scholars and pay 50% of daily transport organized by Joy.

Plan 3
Rural and Urban poor
Highly subsidized tuition and accommodation fees.
Parent will offer contribution in the form of labor—each parent will do work at JCS once a week and the payment will go into tuition fees.
Rural farmers will be given the opportunity to sell their produce (food stuff and animal to JCS at a competitive price) and pay certain percentage to JCS for tuition and accommodation fees.
They will be a priority for accommodation at school since they have no electricity and other amenities that support learning at home.
Plan 4
Community service through informal education whereby JCS will engage rural and urban parents in income generating activities that will enable them to contribute toward education of their children at JCS.

Financial Forecasts-Joy Christian School
Summary of Financial forecasts
Average tuition fee per child per year (year 1 to 6) $200.
Average salary per month $400 per person ($4,800/year/person).
Cost of Construction of one classroom is $12,065. Total construction cost (20 rooms by year 7) will be $241,300.
Teacher student ration is 1:20.
Aggressive fundraising of up to $560,000 by year 7.
Optimal use of facilities to generate income of $39,000 by the end year 7.
Beginning of year 8 capital expenditure will decrease; less construction of classrooms and offices.
Services revenue will increase beginning of year 8; wedding, conference, summer camping, sports, etc charges.

Projects
Community Church – weekly services, daily chapel time for students.
Community Medical Clinic –serve the school and neighborhood.
Community Center.
Public Library.
Recreation Center with swimming pool, weight room, gymnasium, practice fields.
Fully accredited University.
Housing for staff.
Dormitories for children primary and secondary schools.
Vocational training center – sewing, agriculture, carpentry…
Conference Center- host weddings and events- income generator.
Missionary Training Center.
Help train those called to be missionaries all around the world.

Benefits to the Community
Economic Impact- create over 100 jobs in first three years.
Resources – many of the facilities will be open to the community to use.
Public Library, Recreation Center with swimming pool, weight room, gymnasium, practice fields.
Increase property values.
Attract many new business and families to relocate.
Vocational training center – English classes, sewing, agriculture, carpentry…
Conference Center.
Missionary Training Center.
Help train those called to be missionaries all around the world.

Orphaned Missionaries

2010-10-26T23:58:00.000-07:00

It is kind of ironic that the very orphans that we were helping now is our status! Our home church has decided they are heading in another direction and have given us until December 31st to find another church or organization to collect our donations. While it has been a difficult pill to swallow, we believe God has something even more amazing for us in the near future!

So we need your prayers. We are in the process of figuring out what action to take. We need to find either another church, organization or create our own nonprofit by December 31st.

We are so excited about what God is doing here in Rwanda. He has opened so many doors after the door of Urukundo closed.

We believe God wants us to build a mission center. To start with a private christian school and develop it from there. The local government is very eager for us to start. We have a long road ahead but this is God's project not ours. We will rely on him to show us the way.

Why We Are Starting a New Ministry

2010-10-23T00:57:00.000-07:00

We moved from the orphanage and are changing ministries in Rwanda. I thought many of the reasons for the change I could keep private. I don't think I can do that anymore. There are too many questions that our supporters have of why we left so quickly. In the coming notes I hope to spell out some of what led us to this point. Many of you probably don't care to hear this, so feel free not to read. But for those who need to hear reasons for the change I will attempt to present a small bit of why we are no longer at Urukundo and why we now are starting our own private school. I have to warn you. It is messy. It is not easy to look at. Being a Christ follower is often like that. It doesn't always turn out the way you want it. Jesus life was like that. He was an outcast. Even rather barbaric when it came to "fitting in". He made a mess out of societal norms. Please read this with an open heart and know that we are trying to do what God has called us to do. Serve God and serve others.

Our plan was to manage the orphanage for Arlene forever. Arlene was trying to find a successor. She invited us to be just that. What became apparent from day one was that she had changed her mind. She didn't want us here. She didn't want to let go of her leadership. She told everyone around her that this is what she was thinking, but she wouldn't tell us. Even when I confronted her she still wouldn't tell me the truth. The truth is: she didn't want us at Urukundo.

Below is a letter that I submitted to both the American Board of Hope Made Real (fundraising engine) and the International Board of Urukundo:

This letter was sent on September 28th, 2010 after much prayer and struggle. It got to the point where we could no longer manage the orphanage because of so much interference. The children's welfare was at stake and we needed to desperately find a solution to some critical problems.

Here's the letter:

I submitted my resignation letter with dignity and honor a few weeks ago. I assumed that if I took the high road that the same would be for Arlene. Unfortunately that has not been the case. I am not sure why I assumed that because from the very beginning there were distressing issues. The most pointed issue is that Arlene never wanted us here in the first place. She changed her mind. Her invitation for us to come and "take over" for her should have been revoked. But it wasn't. Let me paint a picture of what life was like from the first day that I , Todd, moved to Urukundo in Rwanda.

The first issue was fundraising: How were my wife and I to fundraise to support ourselves so we would not be a burden to Urukundo? I have, in writing, a policy that we would fundraise either by having donors send money to Urukundo or we could choose another path apart from Urukundo. This email was sent to me long before my arrival April 29th, 2010. Then the problems started appearing, one day it was ok to fundraise for our personal support and the next it was not ok. Finally everything seemed settled. We could raise money and Urukundo would send our monthly support with the monthly Urukundo wire.

We would make purchases in preparation for moving to Rwanda and we would hand in those receipts to be reimbursed by our personal account that Hope Made Real had (this was before we moved). Problems arose quickly once we started turning in receipts. We were questioned about the necessity of certain items. We bought a health insurance policy and submitted receipts to HMR. Arlene became unglued that we “wasted” our money on insurance. She said if “we lived our life by faith” we would not need health insurance. We somehow got over this hurdle and I left for Rwanda.

My first week here I asked about how much money we had accumulated in our fundraising account. Arlene said that she would give me a few hundred dollars to use to get set up but that the rest of the money must remain in the Urukundo “pot” to be used at her discretion. We had over $5000 sent by that first month and we saw less than $1000. These were designated gifts for our support. They were clearly marked with the method that was agreed upon. The issue was never whether the money was designated for us. The issue was whether Arlene would allow us to have the money that was given to us.

I immediately called our church and set up a fundraising account through them. When Arlene became aware that no more money was coming into Urukundo through our campaign she told us that we needed to pay rent, internet, and for food. I laughed and said that there should be enough in our account to cover a couple of years of these expenses. She later gave me a piece of paper (I still have it today) that shows that she spent all of the $5000 (some of it was spent to build us our room that we are living in) except for $1600. She said this is what is left of your account to date but I don’t have it to give to you!

When Arlene invited us to move permanently to Urukundo back in August 2009 it was to take over for her as she realized that she was getting older and needed to find a successor: she wrote: “ I need to know I am leaving Urukundo and the children in the hands of someone who Shares the vision, Loves the Lord and Loves the children.” So we began to sell everything we had in hopes that the reality of what she wrote would come true. She also shared with us that the toughest part of the job would be “dealing with her” and “her letting go of leadership and control”.

So it came as a big surprise when the rumors flew around Urukundo that Arlene was talking to people on Skype late at night telling them that she wanted us gone. She had changed her mind and that it wasn’t working out having us be the operational managers and the next leaders of Urukundo. The walls are very thin in her house. A whisper can be heard in the next room so it didn’t surprise me that everyone had heard her conversations. Four different volunteers who stayed up in Arlene’s house gave us the same report with two weeks of one another. They were so alarmed with what they heard they were fearful to tell us because they thought we were terrible people.

Arlene left for America. Before she left she sat us down and said that we should consider some other ministry down the road. That we should get a house away from Urukundo and until then we should pay for room and board. This was a jaw dropper! I thought this was going to be a long term commitment but the truth was coming out.

Shortly after Arlene’s departure our volunteer nurse, Nancy, who stayed for the 3.5 months while Arlene was stateside came to us one morning and said that she had talked to Arlene the night before and Arlene was regretful for bringing us over. It had all been a big mistake. I immediately called Arlene on Skype (this was a couple of weeks into her tour). I confronted her on what Nancy had reported and on what everyone had heard directly from her mouth. Arlene said that she did not say that to Nancy. Nancy had misinterpreted what was said. All the others were guilty of eaves dropping and there was no truth to what they said. Arlene did say that she had some “concerns” about us but that she was 100% sure that we were suppose to be there. I told her that we needed to be honest with one another and bring concerns directly to each other and not through the rumor mill. She agreed....at least that is what she said.

When I checked with the staff on what was going on I found out that even before I arrived Arlene was regretful of me (us) coming. They held meetings to help Arlene figure out how she could get “out of this” mess.

We started to believe everyone else, except Arlene, that she had second thoughts about letting us lead and that she really was not comfortable with us here. We even heard that Arlene had a meeting with Meredith, Louise and Nancy to give them the responsibility to “keep an eye on us”. We had heard enough we certainly weren’t wanted here. So we began to pray about what God wanted us to do. Some wonderful ministry opportunities began to appear out of nowhere. Soon we realized that we were very thankful to Urukundo for the opportunity to come to Rwanda but that we were being called to another ministry.

The Hope Made Real board met while Arlene was in America and discussed (without mentioning names) that someone was using the Hope Made Real logo and pictures of the Urukundo children to do personal fundraising. Arlene stated that this was emphatically “wrong”! and that she would make corrective actions when she returned to Urukundo. Again, I have in writing, from an email last April that all of this was ok for us to do.

The straw that broke the “camels back” was when Arlene saw on my Facebook account that we were spending some nights in Kigali (this was the second week of Sept.) with friends (the Halonen’s were in town for 1 week and sponsor two of Urukundo’s secondary school children). Arlene posted on my facebook “who is minding the children?” She was implying that we left the place unattended and that the welfare of the children were in jeopardy because we were in Kigali. Arlene began to email staff and others to let them know the children were in harms way and that they needed to get to Urukundo immediately. I immediately closed my account to “non friends” so they could not view my pictures and posts. Arlene reacted to my action and began sending me desperate emails that “I was not doing what I was suppose to be doing.”

We sent out the letter of resignation saying we were very thankful for this opportunity. We did our best to honor Arlene and not bring up any of the issues that had been so distressing. No sooner than the letter of resignation was out and we had Meredith and Louise (Urukundo Board Members living in Rwanda) and our volunteer nurse, Nancy, interfering often on the day to day operations on the campus. Decisions were being made by these three often without my knowledge that either directly affected the operations of this campus or that were frankly none of their business. Before the letter of resignation was sent Louise and Meredith had both individually told me that they were going to keep their distance so that Andria and I could lead with our own style and have the freedom to make changes without their influence or without the appearance that Arlene would be told.

Within hours of my letter both woman were here (especially Meredith) almost continually. Meredith was having meetings with mamas and children directing them on what she wanted done sometimes directly contradicting something that we had just said. There was no regard for our leadership all of a sudden. Louise called Emmy while I was standing next to him. She asked him where the Toyota Surf was because she noticed it gone the Sunday morning before. Emmy was so embarrassed that he had to give an explanation of where the vehicle was to a board member who has no authority on aspects of operations.

Today, Sept. 28th, Louise took one of our little boys, Laki, for the day. The policy up to this day had been that this was forbidden. We had, in fact, lost Ezekiel to this policy, because his care giver, the head of the prison child placement, wanted to take him for the day but we could not allow it. So Lousie came and took Laki with no paper work. Arlene had given the ok. Don’t get me wrong, I don’t think Louise would do anything bad, but trying to enforce policies that change from day to day are very difficult.

Then came the manipulative emails and skype conversations where it was obvious that Arlene was not trusting our leadership. She had told me that she wanted us to stay until her return Oct. 12th. Then she wrote that she was happy that I was honoring my agreement to Urukundo and staying for at least a week after her return so that she could recover from jet lag and so that the impact would not be so harsh on the children. Nothing like that had ever been agreed. I was told that I do not have the children’s safety or welfare in my actions. She has even said that I have fallen away from God.

Arlene became VERY curious about what our future plans were. She would ask me in round about ways what we would be doing after Urukundo. She sent emails to the staff asking for their input: “had they heard anything?” She became a little obsessed over the matter to the point of being annoying.

Then Hope Made Real turned off my email address todd@hopemadereal.org. At first I figured it must be a mistake so I waited for one week. Again I tried to log on and it said “access denied”. How was I suppose to be the Operational manager without my email address? Or maybe at least a week or two notice that they were shutting it down.....

I finally had enough of her speculation: I sent an email to Arlene and said that we would stay until her return (if she wanted) but would be moved out of Urukundo on Oct. 12th, her return date. We would stop by and drop off the keys to the safe when she got back (we will be at the airport dropping of an Urukundo guest that evening so will probably miss her arrival). I also said that Emmy, who has been with her for over two years, will know all the details of what has transpired and will be able to provide a smooth transition. I also said that I would respond only to emails from this point forward. If she had any questions please email them to me. Too much had been misconstrued over the past few months and I wanted things in writing again so that we could refer to them in concrete ways.

So today (Sept 28th), I went with Emmy to make the electronic deposit for our payroll. Most of our staff are paid electronically so they receive their money directly into their bank accounts. I was told that my name was off the account and that no transactions that require signatures would be able to be made! Fortunately I had received the wire already so we had enough money to survive on but it really made it embarrassing to try to explain to the bank why this would happen. The banker and long time friend of Urukundo just looked at us with a puzzled look as we stood there with our payroll cash ready to make a deposit that would never happen. We will have to give our people cash this week. I am sure they will all wonder why.

So I am left with a dilemma. I would like to stay and honor my commitment in my resignation but I can not under these circumstances. Arlene’s history of lack of trust and gossip have made it impossible to operate Urukundo with integrity: because of the constant meddling of the three people stated above and because of Arlene’s actions to undermine our authority with the bank, cutting off our email without notice and constantly talking to our volunteers about us.

The only way that I could see us staying until October 12th is if Arlene tells the three people to stay out of the operations of Urukundo (to not interfere in the day to day business) and if she sends us an email saying that she is sorry for the lack of trust and that she will do everything to support us in our efforts. She also needs to send an email to Innocent at Fina Bank restoring his confidence in me by apologizing for her error of judgment. Can’t we find a peaceful solution with us leaving?? God is calling us to another ministry. Period. All the speculation needs to end.

We will give Arlene 24 hours to respond and let us know what she wants us to do. I know that Meredith, Louise and Nancy (along with Emmy) would do a fine job continuing to use their expertise until Arlene’s return. They have been trying to run Urukundo ever since I sent our letter of resignation. If I don’t hear anything within 24 hours I will assume that means that we are not needed any longer as operational managers.

Again, I am very sorry that it has come to this. I have only shared the very “tip of the ice berg” of examples of distressing events. If you would like more, I can provide them.

It has been getting progressively difficult to manage Urukundo with everything that is transpiring. I hear one thing one day from Arlene and then the opposite thing the next. I finally took her off my skype because it becomes so confusing!

If anyone would like copies of emails of past promises or if you have any questions regarding ANY of our actions, I am very open to answering them. The financials will be ready soon and I will make sure Arlene has an opportunity to ask questions and understand everything we have done in the past 3.5 months.

We are not perfect and I am sure we have made our share of mistakes the past few months but I will not continue down this path of dishonesty and character assassination. Yes, I have read some of her emails to people that borders on character assassination. Enough is enough. What ever way we leave Urukundo we will do it with our head held high that we did it as best we could.

Sincerely,

Todd Ellingson

We never heard from Arlene on these issues. We stayed until Arlene returned. She continued to spread false accusations about us and our lack of care for the children.

Here's another email that I sent to some of my key supporters (I edited slightly). This was an email addressing confusion on some people's part on what was going on here in Rwanda. Why were we changing ministries:

The thing that gets me is that I could give you volumes of why not to support Urukundo. Everything from illegal hiring of employees to 32 of the children are not orphaned. We have mislead the government and others that we have all orphans. Most of the children have parent(s) that have chosen an "easy" route to give them to the "Americans" to raise. This to is very much an ethical/legal dilemma in Rwanda. I chose not to bring all of this out into the light. I feel like the whistle blower who is being punished for telling the truth! What I have found is so bad that I am embarrassed to have ever given to and believed in Urukundo. So what am I suppose to do? Do I tell everything to everyone?? I thought that by sharing some of this with key supporters that you would see the truth and would go to bat for me. Obviously that has not happened. I had no idea what was going on here at Urukundo until I arrived...so what was I suppose to do?

Arlene became so ugly to us that I finally wrote some of what happened into a letter and sent it to both of her boards. Her international board was appalled. She is going to have to answer to them at the next board meeting. She accused us of neglecting and not loving the children, of using her name and pictures to personally fund raise (which she told us to do)....we began to have people come out of her past that paint an even more ugly picture of who she is. One guy is Rwandan and leads an orphanage here in Rwanda. They (Arlene and this guy) were partners early on and she swindled $1,000's from him. Many, many other stories that have ALL been confirmed and paint a very disturbing picture.

Yes, I can see why it is confusing people. I have people very close to her, some still employed by her that want to leave. They actually want to come and work for us. I don't want to be accused of stealing her workers but my heart breaks for themand the conditions they are facing. Arlene even hired a lawyer to go after one of her friends because she wanted to own his house so bad. She convinced his family to live in the children's dorms for 2 years and promised to pay him for rent of his house. She didn't pay one dime to him!! Not one penny the entire time that she used his house. And some how she thought she had a right to own his house! The lawyer, a board member, told Arlene that she had no case against him!

We lost two boys while Arlene was in the U.S. Both of them came from the prison system. Both could have remained at Urukundo had it not been for Arlene's stubbornness and her disregard for the law. She refused to let them go and visit their mothers in prison!! She went against the governments direct mandate that they need to see their parent(s) often. You can't restrict children from this activity. It is ILLEGAL. So what did she do. She dug in her heals. We even had the program director of the Prison Placement Program at Urukundo to clear up the matter and Arlene still said no. Arlene will have to answer to her actions now. The government will do an investigation. The boys are gone for ever. One boy was even put in an orphanage down the road that is willing to follow the law. Children's welfares are at stake!

Go to www.carwanda3.blogspot.com. It is a website that one group created to try to expose Arlene's dishonesty. It is a group that is led by the former president of her board! He has knowledge of the inside dealings of Urukundo and Hope Made Real. He gave $58,000 to build Hope House (he raised tens of thousands of dollars over the years for Urukundo). When he arrived at Urukundo for the dedication he asked for an accounting of the money. The building was suppose to be two story. It was one. He was promised certain things that never happened. THe structure that was built was not even close to a $58,000 building. He was very angry. He had brought groups to Urukundo for that past three years. He himself had been there six times. He wanted to know where his donations were going but he wasn't given answers. He wrote a letter to Arlene that I have included below. I don't even know this group, but much of what they say is true. If you read the letter that the group wrote to Arlene most of the terrible conditions they describe are actually true. We had NO idea things were this bad until we lived there. It's hard to see these things when you are a short term guest. Having lived there we got to see things first hand.

We were SO concerned that we actually considered contacting Hillie's (the newest baby) father and trying to adopt him!! That is how concerned we are for his safety. We know that he will lay in his crib and cry far too long before anyone comes to his aid. We know that he will continue to get bites from bugs that crawl on him at night even though he has a net over him. We know that his diaper won't get changed in a timely manner most days. So, how could we leave this??? How could we leave these children to face this every day (and believe me it is bad..)? It ate us up! It was the hardest decision ever. We tried everything to improve things.

One of the things that made me decide most of all to leave Urukundo was what it was doing to our marriage. Andria and I were slowly growing apart over the stress at Urukundo. It was toxic there! It was so unhealthy that it began to eat at us individually and at our marriage. We tried our BEST to talk to Arlene and the board. Nothing had an impact. We didn't have any authority. All the while our marriage began to suffer. Some of you knew about this and were praying for us. Others began to pull away from us assuming that we were "doing our own thing". We began to feel isolated from some of our supporters.

Most would never guess this is the case with Arlene. When she talks you think that you are meeting "Mother Theresa" or something. She is good at getting you to believe in Urukundo and what she is doing. She is deceiving. Designated money isn't going into the proper places. Pricing on projects is grossly over inflated. She treats people like property and not human beings.

Some of you apparently had deep concerns over what we were doing and why? Why were we leaving Urukundo and those beautiful children. I could have easily shared EVERYTHING to you. Why wasn't I asked. NEVER did I receive an email asking to explain our actions. I tried to share as much as I could without going into specifics but apparently that didn't work. I told some of my key supporters/leaders the details in hope that they would share with you. But that didn't work. I don't get it. If all of this was happening why wasn't I asked for an accounting? I would have loved to share the volumes of issues. Here's another one. We are illegally employing people. None of the people we have hired at Urukundo are under contract which is illegal. This is done so that you avoid paying taxes (retirement is one big one) on them. People are so desperate here for jobs that they continue to work without proper compensation.

Do people think we came up to this point flippantly? Again, I don't get it. Did you ever share how we never saw the $5,000 that was raised for us? We never saw it!! Arlene wouldn't give it to us because she wanted it. These were designated gifts given in our name that she used at her own discretion. She told me point blank that she spent all of our money without consulting us or letting us know what was going on...Money that was being raised for US was not getting to us. Doesn't this concern someone?

When Andria's home church learned what was going on they adjusted . They changed everything. When they learned of what was going on here they decided not to use Arlene at their church when she was in Phoenix on her tour. They filmed an interview that will never air. They quickly acted. They supported us and their pastor said "these things happen often. Overseas missions work is a dynamic organism. Things that appear to be, often or not what they seem". He then went out of his way to make sure we were ok and supported. He told us that he has story after story of similar situations that have happened with other missionaries. Change happens. Period.

Things are looking so good here at our new location. We have three groups already booked here to come and do a football clinic in the public schools, VBS in the public schools and a medical clinic both in the schools and on our property. Apparently some people have faith that what we are doing is what God wants us to do.

The misunderstandings could have been avoided. We should have communicated better and more specifically with EVERYONE. I am sorry for the confusion. Please forgive me.

I hope you understand that things like this happen. We didn't want it to happen but it has. We believe God is opening up new doors for us to use for His Kingdom.

Below is a letter from the former President of Hope Made Real. I have never met the people who wrote it. But I do find that many of their issues raised were important. When we first read this letter we thought it was way out of line with the issues it raises. Now having lived at Urukundo for 5 months we can honestly say that these issues need to be addressed.

February 3, 2010
Mama Arlene Brown Urukundo Home for Children BP 179 Muhanga District, Rwanda
Dear Arlene-
We are grateful for the week the Lord allowed us to spend in Rwanda and with the children of Urukundo. The week provided many highs and lows and we are deeply grateful for what the Lord revealed to us. As you said on Friday morning, January 29, 2010, the Lord sent us to expose the theft perpetrated by Chantal so you could deal effectively with an Urukundo employee regularly engaging in stealing. Based upon your view of the Lord using us to assist you in dealing with an employee situation, we believe the Lord is also using us to highlight challenges and concerns at Urukundo.
WE are Christians. We are fully—and unabashedly—committed to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and place Him FIRST above the world. It was Jesus the Christ who instructed his followers to go to one-another when one strays from His calling. Mama Arlene, it is in the calling of, and spirit of, our Lord and Savior that we come to you and lift-up the deep concerns we observed at Urukundo while we were there last week. Here are our concerns:
Displaying a Cross in the “Worship Center”: This was introduced to us on our first day as the "WORSHIP CENTER." Later the name seemed change to the "Hope House," and in the most recent Newsletter, you have called it the “Multi-Purpose Center.” This is greatly disheartening and does not honor Christ in any way. Comments from you included, “We can't put a Cross up because we have to make money off this building.” The discussion, with John in front of us, was that we are Christians and we should be proud of that fact. Afterall, we believe the ONLY reason there is a new building is because Jesus permitted it. John expressed his thoughts in front of ALL of us, "There would be no problem putting up a cross.” To deny Jesus Christ in order to make a profit is simply abandoning Him. This is wrong and stands opposed to the founding mission of Urukundo Christian Home for Children. Furthermore, we feel duped in being asked to “cut the ribbon” of a Worship Center only to find out a week later (on the HMR Website) that this facility is NOT a Worship Center honoring Jesus Christ, but a simple Multi-Purpose Center honoring “man.”
Welfare of Urukundo Children: It appears that too much money is being re-directed from child welfare and is being used to build more poor quality buildings. Urukundo has too many children and they are not being cared for properly. Older children are housed in a crowded nursery, House Mamas do nothing to maintain order and prevent the children from harm, boys and girls have engaged in “romance” activities, and alcohol and drunkenness have invaded Urukundo. It scares us to think that, given current conditions, a pregnancy is a distinct possibility.
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The children are “hurt” and feel as though they are being ware-housed, not loved. Sister, you should
not build more buildings until Urukundo can take proper care of the children currently in residence. The children are changing and are hurting for the lack of love, structure, and discipline.
There are no mosquito nets over the children’s beds. The laws of Rwanda, which regulate Orphanages and Homes for Children, require mosquito nets over all beds and cribs. These must be purchased—and deployed—immediately. The nets are much less expensive and painful than a child contracting malaria.
The amount of money needed to sponsor a child must be substantiated. $600 a year is more than the average person in Rwanda earns and significantly, more than some other Homes/Orphanages in Rwanda request for sponsorship—and those places are providing quality care. The question of where the money is going must be answered for existing and potential sponsors. The lack of accounting for the $600 sponsorship cannot continue and it erodes faith in Urukundo.
Welfare of Urukundo Babies: We observed babies being picked up by one arm or one leg from their cribs or other locations. We witnessed this many times and the children were clearly uncomfortable—if not scared and in pain by this behavior. There is little to no stimulation for the babies. During the day, babies are just carried around, and developmental toys were not available—yet we know there have been toys sent to Urukundo. In particular, we observed Sarah being set on the porch without any supervision. Sarah then fell off the porch backwards and landed on her back with her head off the edge. Finally, babies are allowed to go to bed with their bottles and continue “hanging on” to their bottles all day, etc which will rot their teeth. These are examples of child abuse.
Food Quality – Since we served at Urukundo in 2008, we have witnessed a serious degradation in meal quality being served to the children. The biggest change we’ve noticed is now there is little or no protein in the meals being served. Beans—a source of protein—are provided only occasionally. Outside of the Samboosa, and one or two days with beans, we saw no protein for supper or lunch. We are at a loss as to why the children are not receiving protein.
As you have shared with us, plenty of chickens and eggs are located at Urukundo—why not use them? What purpose are the goats, etc. at the Farm if they are not feeding the children? We also observed that the children are not provided with drinks at meals. In 2008, the children were served tea with all meals. Again, since our visit in March 2008, vitamins did not appear to be given to children. Vitamins which were sent to Urukundo three years ago are still sitting on the shelf in the Clinic. Every supper and lunch we attended had rice, potatoes, and some kind of bananas—no greens and no protein. Additionally, fruit was not always available to the children. The appearance is that Urukundo is not spending the necessary funds to properly feed the children and that the funds necessary to adequately feed the children is being re-directed to construction.
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Hygiene: Children are wearing the same clothing during the day, sleeping at night in the clothing, and not changing for several days at a time—we observed some girls wearing the same clothes since Saturday when we arrive—through Thursday—our last full day. Children were not bathing for an entire week and then, of course they, had no hot water. Basic human hygiene must be taught and it should be stressed to the children. Future leaders of Rwanda should be given these most basic skills—and then required to maintain themselves properly. It was not lost on us that the boils and other skin conditions may have been the result of dirty bodies.
The nursery smells horribly of urine, to the point of nausea when the door is opened in the morning. This is unhealthy for the lungs—as well as the bodies—of the children. There was a significant amount of flies in the nursery area as compared to the rest of the house. The flies stayed on the children and were rather aggressive.
There were no diapers on non-potty trained children. We observed—and it was accepted among the staff—the children pulling down their pants and urinating and defecating on the floor. After this, we observed children walking in the urine and feces. When there were diapers used, from our observation, the diapers were changed only once a day. The beds and cribs in which the babies sleep were urine soaked and the children were lying in it.
But for our insistence, the bath water would not have been changed between children. Water must be changed between each baby’s bath. It is appalling to see the brown/black bath water and to know that upon our departure children are bathing in reused water.
Another danger to the children is the livestock wondering the property where children live and play. While we called this to your attention, we’re confident that upon our departure—and in the absence of “supervision”—livestock were wandering the property. Additionally, the farmer should be made to clean up the dung when he, inappropriately, allows these animals to wander Urukundo property.
Discipline: There appears to be no discipline at Urukundo. Children are not expected to adhere to a code of conduct because there simply isn’t one. As we observed the children, their days, and their interactions, it was clearly apparent that no boundaries are set. For example, there was a food fight at the table one night during our stay at Urukundo. Another day one child was witnessed “flipping the bird” to another. We observed children throwing trash around the property, and destroying various Urukundo assets.
Manners—and common decency as experienced in 2008—are nonexistent in the dining area. Children are eating with their fingers—potential future leaders of Rwanda don’t eat with their fingers. We advocate—similar to 2008—that an adult be assigned for every two tables, assign seats for the children, thereby allowing the Urukundo leader to know who is at dinner and who is not at dinner. Additionally, adults need to observe what the children eat, making sure they get a balanced diet.
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Another negative change since 2008 is mealtime participation of the children. We believe you should
demand children are present for the pre-meal song and prayer at each meal. Children should be assigned chores, including cleaning, and growing a garden. Urukundo should rent the top of the mountain for a large garden, work said garden, and sell the produce that is not needed at Urukundo. When the work commences in the garden the children who work in the gardens should place some of the profits in their own bank account. This will give them life skills to help feed them and the current farmer can be utilized to help teach the children about farming. Perhaps an acre of ground can go into coffee trees?
Instead of hearing, “The table is set,” perhaps a dinner bell being rung prior to the song and grace to everyone for meals and any other gatherings would be better. There is no authority “walking the grounds.” The children know it and do whatever they please—and this is dangerous.
The children should not be wandering in and out for church and special events.
A schedule should be developed which includes physical activities and chores. When school is not in session, the children should be participating in learning activities and using the library—beyond the false pictures of activity—shown on the January Hope Made Real Website.
Staff should be reading to the children, having story time for the little ones, and involving the older children in reading to the younger children.
Christian worship should continue on Sunday mornings accompanied with Wednesday evening Bible study. We also advocate for Thursday evening English classes and Story Time on Tuesday evening. Soccer on Monday and Friday would be a worthwhile activity, too. It’s not lost on us that idle hands are the devil’s workshop. Regardless of what the “world” may say, the children of Urukundo are Christian and know Him intimately!
Since non-Christian volunteers have been allowed on the property, we have observed a huge erosion of Christian values and behaviors among the children. They (non-Christian volunteers) attend worship and celebrations but do not actively participate, which sets a poor example for the children. These non- Christians also wander in and out of these Services. Urukundo's original mission was a Christian home for children, not to convert non-Christian volunteers. If this has changed it should be advertised for all to see and understand. It is certainly clear from the text statement on the HMR Website that Urukundo has adopted the “world,” and pushed Jesus The Christ “off the field.”
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Interactions with People and Treatment of Workers. American leadership styles may not apply everywhere, but Christ's leadership style applies everywhere. Christ said, “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” The behavior we observed last week included rudeness, obnoxiousness, and abuse—this was definitely not Christ-like. There were times when we were embarrassed by the behavior exhibited. In the name of our Lord, all people should be treated with respect and dignity.
There is an appearance that the children are being used to coerce money from sponsors. The titles, “Mom” and “Dad” should not be used by children that are sponsored. If for some reason, a sponsorship should have to be dropped, then the child would once again be abandoned. “Mom” and “Dad” are held to a higher standard for people who are present daily in a child’s life. Sponsors should not be made to feel guilty by being called “Mom” or “Dad.” It is too hard on the child to have to a “Mom” or “Dad” who is not present and who may not be here a year from now. Again, this does not honor the titles of “Mother,” and “Father.”
Training for the Mamas – A comprehensive training and ongoing evaluation program must be implemented for the Mamas. Each Mama should be given a set of standards for their behavior and the behavior they are expected to elicit from the children. They then should be shown the proper ways for doing things as simple as giving baths and placing a child in a crib. It is glaringly apparent that the Mamas do not have even basic training in the care of children. Some of them are simply “going through the motions,” and are not truly caring for the children and their safety. They do not engage the older children and they show no ability—or desire—to be the “authority” in the house and having the children live according to a set of standards.
Building – The existing buildings are in poor condition, partially a result of cheap construction. Cracks in walls, electric sockets hanging out of walls, chunks of wall missing in many locations, broken windows (due to cheap glass), lights which don’t work, doors which have holes in them, and in general, the buildings are filthy. Urukundo should not construct another building until such funds are available for quality construction with good quality materials. In the meantime, funds must be expended to repair and maintain the existing assets of Urukundo. The new kitchen opened last year, and during our visit you mentioned it already needs repairs to the tune of $5,000. This is unacceptable and a poor use of the resources Christ has provided to Urukundo.
ALL children should be assigned daily chores to adequately maintain the existing physical plant. The children should be cleaning walls, sweeping and mopping floors, cleaning windows, etc.
The most important point is this: Child welfare is paramount; take care of the children first.
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Urukundo Christian Home for Children – When we first began serving Jesus Christ in Rwanda, we served at the Urukundo Christian Home for Children. We even had our receipts stamped, “Urukundo Christian Guest House.” Sometime between the old location and the move to the present location the name changed. It is quite noticeable that the word, “Christian” has been dropped. It is glaringly apparent that Urukundo is not a Christian ministry but an Orphanage entitled, “Urukundo Village.”
Given the name change, and our observations and witness for Christ, we believe all donors should be notified that Urukundo is no longer a Christian mission, but a humanitarian mission. Certainly, all US- based Christian organizations should be informed that Christian is not a word in vogue any longer at Urukundo. Churches and individuals must be given the opportunity to decide whether or not they desire to support a humanitarian mission, which is the current state of Urukundo. Be proud that Urukundo is a humanitarian mission, openly acknowledge this fact, and cease using the Savior’s name to seek money and resources from Christian donors.
It is very clear that Jesus the Christ has been pushed to the side—or simply pushed out—of the original mission. Repeating the words, “God in Charge,” is meaningless based upon our experiences last week. The transformation from Christian mission to humanitarian mission didn’t happen overnight—it was a gradual process. Satan has succeeded in moving the core “mission” from Christ to World.
The aid so many donors have offered was given in the name of Christ. Indeed, non-Christians and some people who are openly anti-Christian have made donations to Urukundo, too. Much of this aid has been received and God was left out of the picture. The issue for us is the primacy of God and His Son, Jesus Christ. He must be acknowledged as a reality, that He IS reality without which nothing can be good.
Urukundo cannot simply detach from Christ—and “hide” under the name of God. Even Satan acknowledges God! Muslims, Buddhists, Hindis all have a god. Their God is NOT the God of the Savior. Urukundo has adopted the God of “all religions” and pushed the God of the world’s Savior to the sideline. If a man or woman’s heart is not good, then nothing else can turn out good either. And the goodness of the human heart can ultimately come only from the One who is goodness, who is the GOOD itself. That is God the Father of our Savior, Jesus Christ.
We fully realize the risk being taken by sending this letter. Our Lord took many risks and helped many reclaim the life He meant for them. Mama, we pray you listen to our words with the love of Jesus The Christ as your glasses. Then you will truly understand our intentions and not fall prey to the evil one who will simply have you hate us. Here are some Scriptures for you to consider along with our letter:
Matthew 10:33 Matthew 18: 15-20 John 15:1-17 James 1:19-27 James 4: 13-17 John 14:6 Psalm 23 1 Timothy 6:10 Matthew 7:12 Proverbs 29:15 John 3:16 Proverbs 3:5-6 Matthew 6: 1-4 Matthew 18:1-7
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In Christian Love we are praying for you and Christ’s plan for your life and Urukundo and look forward to
a conversation with you about this letter.
Ed Leslie Sandy Keller Hafner Walker
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So this is, in part, why we are gone from Urukundo. I hope that for those of you who still have questions you will email me and ask. I want to have integrity and accountability in everything we do here in Rwanda. If I have made a mistake, hold me accountable. I pray that God will continue to lead Andria and me.

Todd

Disappointing God

2010-10-22T04:13:00.000-07:00

I am reminded today that we have an audience of One! God is the only person we are put on this earth to follow. He is the only one in the "audience" that matters. I was terribly disappointed today. Someone let me down. It hurts. I was reminded in my devotion time that God calls us to be content in all things. "So if we have enough food and clothing, let us be content." 1 Tim. 6:8. I checked. My belly is full. I have nice clothes to wear. Why am I so devastated by someone letting me down?

We came to Rwanda to serve the poor and needy. We didn't know what it would look like exactly..and still don't. Things change everyday here. Now we have moved into a new house and have a new mission. To build a Mission Center: boarding school, church, medical center, community center....to serve God's poor and needy we have been called on this quest. Frankly, there are days when I think about living back in the comfortable U.S. with all the wealth and comforts that make life rather easy. But that is not what God has called Andria and I to do. So we remain faithful to what we sense God calling us to do. We have received many confirmations that we are on the right path. Could we be wrong. Sure!! We aren't perfect. But we will not waver from the path to which we feel called. Disappointment to me means little to God's kingdom. God is not disappointed. He knows true disappointment in the loss of his Son on the cross.

Can I survive this disappointment? Absolutely! Does it hurt today? Very much so! But I only look to the one I am following to continue to guide us as we live a life of allowing Christ's Spirit to use us as best we can. Being a Christ follower is messy! It isn't clean, clear cut or neat. The life I see Jesus calling me to has many unpleasantries. Jesus was rather barbaric when it came to the way he related to those around him. He was a social outcast. He bucked the Roman government. He led a rather "messy" life all the way up unto his death.

"To be fully alive requires knowing what you'd die for. Until you clarifiy that, life is motion without meaning." Rick Warren

What is it that is worth living for? A better question is first: what is it that I see worth dying for? I am called to die for the people of Rwanda. It breaks my heart that there is so much poverty and lack of good schooling. I am called to give up myself here in Rwanda so that maybe, just maybe, a few Rwandans will live a better life!

Bosco

2010-10-20T04:31:00.000-07:00

I hired Bosco (not his real name) to do some work on my house. He came highly recommended and we needed some serious electrical work done. Tuesday we decided that we would travel into Kigali together and he would help me shop for all the supplies. I picked Bosco up at his work and we headed out to Kigali. Bosco's English was very good and soon we were talking about his family. Bosco shared that during the genocide his family fled to the Congo. His mom, a Hutu and Dad, a Tutsi, felt their lives threatened and so they packed up their 12 children and drove to the Congo just West of Rwanda. There they stayed in exile. Bosco became part of the Congolese army where he served for 10 years. The year was 1994.

The family returned to Rwanda after it was safe...so they thought. Bosco remained in the Congo in the army while the other 11 family members returned. The year was 1998 when revengeful army guys came and killed all but one family member as well as seven others who were in Bosco's family house. Apparently this was a common thing that was happening. Since Bosco's parents were from both tribes they were targeted. Only one sister and Bosco survived.

Bosco now faces on a regular basis one of the Major's in the army that killed his family. Bosco shared that he is good friends with his son. He would never dare to share his knowledge. The Major doesn't even know about Bosco's situation.

Bosco says that healing dialogue needs to take place for true healing. The government is so pro-peace that they forgot that people need to share honestly their feelings and hurts. It is typical for Rwandans to suppress their feelings. When Rwandans are asked about how they feel about the genocide there is too quick a response for forgiveness and not enough dialogue on feelings that are deep inside people.

Bosco is concerned that if another President is ever elected and their is a change in policy there could be a "genie out of the bottle" type event that could lead to more death. I thanked Bosco for sharing with me. My heart prayed that Bosco's dream of true healing would be a reality.

New Road to Run

2010-10-14T21:26:00.000-07:00

This morning is the third morning to wake up in our new house. We are renting a house from John Kayitare, the executive administrator of Urukundo Home for Children. We both have been given a dream by God to build a Mission Center: private boarding school, university, medical center, vocational training center and community center. John built this house and we feel privilege to have a beautiful house to live.

This morning at 6am I made my first maiden voyage outside the gates for a jog. I typically rotate between jogging and mountain biking. I really don't know where the roads lead so I stayed on the rough gravel road that our house is located. I probably only went a few miles but it is amazing at the looks I get. To see a "white person" jogging on your road is not a very common occurrence. I would greet them with a "good morning" in their native tongue (kinyarwanda) and their surprise faces would break into the biggest smiles and we would exchange hand waves.

One little child saw me coming from a few hundred feet and let out with a loud shriek! Some children haven't seen a light colored skinned person and get a little scared. Apparently some parents have shared a legend that white people eat little children for a snack!! This of course doesn't help either.

Today we welcome back a contractor, the Teacher. His nickname was given because he is so good at training others to have skills that help them land jobs. The Teacher has a reputation for doing good work. He even gives a written estimate to you before he begins. We hope to get a number of things done in the coming days to make our house a home. The biggest project is the kitchen where we need a sink, counter and shelves.

Today is Andria's birthday. It will be unlike any celebration she has ever had. Life in Rwanda is very different from America. It amazes me that God called us here to do such a big goal. I like Rick Warren's quote on Twitter. The size of of your God will determine the size of your goal". We serve a very big God.

Driving In Rwanda

2010-10-07T10:42:00.000-07:00

Here are some thoughts about driving in Rwanda.
Right side steering wheels make it difficult to see around trucks as you try to pass vehicles on winding mountainous roads. The government is making it illegal to sell right steering wheel vehicles. We drive on the right side of the road so it makes sense to have left handed steering wheels.

There are more motorcycles registered in Rwanda than four wheeled vehicles. Dodging "motos" (motorcycles) is a skill. Many of the motos are under powered and driven poorly. Directional signals are used for everything except turning. The vehicle before you will signal to you if it is "ok" to pass. Trouble happens when a. they tell you wrong or b. they want to turn left in front of you and you assume they are signaling for something else. Almost all vehicles are under powered going through the mountains so be ready to crawl behind slow moving trucks until you finally find a straight away to pass. Police are positioned at various spots throughout the country. They will stop you if they think they can find a violation. Mostly trucks and public transport (buses and vans) are stopped. "Coaster" Toyota buses are mid size vehicles that don't make as many stops as the smaller 18 passenger vans. On Coasters you get your own seat. On vans they cram as many people as possible into a 15 passenger van! They cost the same amount of money. Vans stop many times. Coasters are express. If you are lucky you live where the bus starts or you are stuck to ride the vans. It costs 90 Rwandan Francs to ride from Gitarama to Kigali (1 hour) which is around $1.80. Motorcycles are the biggest hazard on the road, vans and small buses are next. Then there are the huge coaches that travel between countries. There is a huge (it looks even larger on the small windy roads of Rwanda) red bus that travels from Burundi to...I don't really know where it stops...maybe Uganda. It looks very tippy as it winds up down the roads.

While there are lane markers to let you know if you are in the right or left lane, it seems that a lot of drivers just wander all over the road never picking a lane. Horn honking is constant. While at first I thought it was just a courtesy honk, I now think that it is a passive aggressive way of saying "I am ticked at your driving!" Honking your horn not only tells the vehicles around you that you are coming it also tells everyone that they are idiots and that no one really knows how to drive! lol Roundabouts are wonderful inventions...or at least they look good. The problem is when hardly anyone knows how to drive on them. Aggressive driving is the only way to survive. Grab a line and go for it. If you are exiting in the next turn you are to signal and proceed to the outside lane.

Toyota has a corner on the market. It would appear that 90% of all vehicles are Toyota brand. I don't know how they got such a hold in Rwanda but Toyota is the "ticket". Models are a little different than in the U.S. The 4Runner is a "Surf". Land Cruisers are similar but there is also a Prado Land Cruiser. Corollas are similar. Rav 4s are very popular and look like their U.S. counterparts. Mercedes makes a model that is only $12,000 and it appears that Benz's are as "elite".

Trip to the Airport

2010-10-05T10:26:00.000-07:00

We are sitting at the airport at Bouron Cafe waiting for Andria's long-time friend Margaret Larson to arrive. It is always a little surreal coming to Kigali and the airport. For one thing, Kigali is so different than the rest of Rwanda. It is like the modern world compared to Little House on the Prairie. You see fashion and tall business buildings in the city. In the airport I am looking around and see well dressed people everywhere. There are many muzungo's (white people) waiting like we are to pick up someone that has arrived on Brussels Air. Andria just enjoyed a pinene sandwich and some REAL ice cream at the famous Bourbon Cafe. Again it is very different to what we find in Gitarama.

We are very excited to have Margaret Larson with us for the next 7 days. Her family has their own nonprofit "Micah Global Foundation" as they dedicated themselves to being a "missional family". The whole family, their kids are grown, travel the world and help bring the love of Jesus to many. We hope that we can make a good connection with Margaret and that she will feel "called" to make many more trips back to Rwanda. This is a scouting trip for her to see if she could bring teams next time.

Rwanda Mission

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Annual Report 2011 and Action Plan for 2012 (most figures are in francs)

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Latest happenings in Rwanda!

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This weeks Mission in Rwanda

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Student Sponsorships

Women of Rwanda - Jane & Sophia

Brigitte M

Women's Center Needs Your Help

Meet Grace from the Sewing Group

Midwifery

Going to the dentist

Meet Jeanne from the sewing class

City of Joy Business Plan

Meet Febronie from the Sewing Class

Sponsored Children in Rwanda

Just One Thing

Open My Eyes Lord, I Want to See Jesus!

Meet Esther from the Sewing Class

Women's Sponsorship Program

Two steps forward three? steps back

Architect

Electricity & Land Update

Hope 4 Women/Dress a Girl Around the World

Praise Report

This is Africa

Project Update

Guesthouse Under Construction

Hope 4 Kids International

It Happened Again

Sewing Center Land Bought

Scape Goat

Team Visits City of Joy

Buddy our Dog

Kids Play International

Sharing God's Love

Time for a Lightning Rod

Kids Play International

Goat Brochettes

Remembering the Genocide

Updated Business Plan

Project Overview

• “City of Joy” will be a comprehensive Christian community of services and experiences offered to all ages.

• City of Joy will be located in the Village of Bikire, Ngwa Cell, Mukingo Sector, Nyanza District, South Province, Rwanda.

• The first phase will be the primary school-Joy Christian School (JCS).

City of Joy

Vision:

A Christ-centered community of loving God and loving others.

Mission:

City of Joy, a faith- inspired organization, empowering people with Christian passion. Through formal and informal programs and experiences, City of Joy will achieve its core value of creating a community of grace.

Value:

To create a community of grace where the love of God is manifested in the love of neighbor through faith development, intellectual formation and community services (concern for the poor and marginalized).

Joy Christian School

Vision:

To form Christ-like, intellectually competent and socially responsible leaders of tomorrow.

Mission:

Value:

To create a community of grace where the love of God is manifested in the love of neighbor through faith development, competent intellectual formation and community services (concern for the poor and marginalized)

Why Joy Christian School (JCS)?

1. Christian Values

-Loving God and loving others is the basis of the Christian faith and this

can change the world by challenging our students to exemplify Jesus’ life.

2. Education system (recent change from French to English):

-Need for Strong and affordable English medium school. Currently, majority of poor and middle class Rwandans cannot afford quality education because of high charges by private schools.

-Due to shortage of good English Medium schools, many parents send their children to neighboring countries, Uganda and Kenya.

3. Social Economic Realities:

-Great need for economic empowerment of rural and poor urban communities (people who cannot afford quality education for their children).

-Great need for socio-spiritual accompaniment due to the effects of the 1994 genocide.

Critical Factors/Hopes and Challenges

• Strengths

– Founders’ international experience and English as their first language.

– Co-founder is an experienced teacher.