Thanks to YOU, Daraja girls get the gift of free education. So when school is out, Daraja girls “pay” for their scholarships by giving back to their communities. We think it’s a fair price—a chance for them to practice being community leaders. They tutor struggling students, volunteer in hospitals and clinics, participate in environmental clean-up projects, teach workshops on sustainable farming, and so much more. Over 5,000 hours of community service are completed by students every year, benefitting 12,000 people!

The girls got back this week and couldn’t wait to share about their summer of service:

Lisbine - Form 1

Lisbine hopes to one day become a doctor, so she knew a local hospital would be the best place to serve. After hearing about her medical goals, the staff at Ndanai Hospital created a week-long program for Lisbine to explore different departments. She ended up volunteering in the pediatric ward, the pharmacy, the vaccination clinic, the nutrition department, and the laboratory. Lisbine says that her time in the hospital was the highlight of her break.

“I was so happy after completing my community service! I learned so much, and I am excited to continue learning about medicine. I gained so much confidence and became more courageous while serving.”

Florence - Form 3

Florence noticed that an elderly neighbor was struggling with daily tasks, and she wanted to do something. She helped the woman harvest maize, cook meals, clean the house, and even remove the cobwebs on the ceiling. While Florence served, she enjoyed talking with her neighbor, hearing her wonderful stories and getting advice. These days Florence always looks forward to her hours of service during school breaks.

“Doing this type of community service made me feel so empowered. Not everyone has the heart to help others. I love helping people who need help in order to pay back the help that I receive at Daraja.”

Brenda - Form 4

As a member of the Environmental Club at Daraja, Brenda knows how important the forest is. She volunteered with the reforestation team in the Kahurura, Mt Kenya forest where she planted, watered, and maintained trees. Although the work was hard, Brenda knew her efforts were important. Brenda loved being engaged in her community while being a part of something that would change it forever. She was especially proud that many of the youth in her community joined in the effort.

“We wanted to be a part of those who are working really hard to maintain the forest. Many people in our community helped. We wanted to show that there is hope in the next generation since the help was offered by the youth.”

Thank you to everyone who has made it possible for these three girls to receive an education. They wish they could thank you in person. But in the meantime, they will continue to show their gratitude by helping others in need.

Asante Sana!