Or mail your tax-deductible gift to:
Mothering Across ContinentsMake checks payable to Mothering Across Continents, with "Mentoring Mwiko" in the memo line.
15105-D John J. Delaney Dr. #146
Charlotte, NC 28277
Project Catalyst Jerri Hatch with the children of Mwiko Primary School
Students of Mwiko Primary with their mural
"This is Our Dream"
Teacher Frances Badjik-Bova with students
Students, many first time artists,
crafted their vision in 50 paintings
Mentoring Mwiko Project Catalyst
Jerri Hatch at Mwiko Primary
In 2009, Project Catalyst Jerri Hatch visited Mwiko primary school while on a gorilla-trekking safari in Rwanda. This remote school lacks running water, electricity, books, materials and playground equipment. Jerri promised 700 children that she would help.
With our support, she returned with five teachers and advisors. In 10 days, children crafted their vision which is reflected in a 20-foot mural and 50 paintings called "This is Our Dream." Nearly 1,000 parents attended a festival displaying the work. Teacher Frances Badjik-Bova stayed through the summer, delivering English language and teacher skills training. The entire 80-day pilot cost less than $23,000. In her final report, Frances said, "In all my years teaching, I have never seen so much progress in such a short time."
Rwanda has Vision 2020 goals for literacy, nutrition, hygiene and graduation rates. We've raised funds for two paid teachers (2011-12) to coach school staff, help increase exam scores, and prepare more students for secondary school. The project plan also calls for two intensive "Summer Camps" ($25,000).
Read more about Project Catalyst Jerri Hatch.