January 2, 2011
Falling asleep in a mud hut, listening to the joyful sounds of girls and their children singing and praying is an experience I will never forget. As a volunteer with ChildVoice, I had the opportunity to spend two weeks in Uganda, working with the girls and staff. It was a life changing experience, spent in the African bush with people who have experienced the worst of mankind's inhumanity. CVI is reforming former child soldiers, and providing them with the life skills and education necessary to reintegrate into their communities as productive citizens. Not only has the circle of violence stopped for these girls, but it has stopped for their children as well. Where there was once pain and hardship, there is now hope.
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
During interviews, I came to understand the personal horrors these girls have experienced and understood the difficult steps they took to recovery. Graduates explained how they are using their business skills/trade (taught at CVI), to support themselves, their children and their extended families. Local program stakeholders helped me understand how CVI outreach has shifted public opinion; girls who were once hated outcasts are now vital members of the community.
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
Use positive program evaluations to increase visibility among potential funders with the goal of expanding the model globally.
MY ROLE:
Professional with expertise in this field & Conducted a needs assessment. Facilitated a grantwriting workshop in Gulu. Interviewed program staff, volunteers, stakeholders, students, and graduates.
