Message from our Founder & Executive Director:
Hello! How are you doing? Life is definitely challenging right now. I’ll admit, some days are better than others. Whenever I start feeling low, a little sad or even hopeless, I try to think about my children in Kenya. I close my eyes and imagine that I’m at Rapha Community Center, looking out at my favorite view, listening to the sounds of children. I hear their excited chatter and laughter. I see them playing, washing clothes, sitting together for a meal, coming home from school–all the sights and sounds that create our beautiful community. Then I think about their stories.
Before John (pictured with me above) joined our family, his mother passed away. He was left in the care of his step-father who physically abused him. He refused to pay school fees and would often withhold food. John wanted to go to school like the other children in his village. At 10 years old, he was so depressed and desperate, he ran away from home determined to end his life. Thankfully, a neighbor discovered John alone in the bush, rescued him and brought him to our community. Now he is safe and loved. He can finally go to school and receive the support he needs to thrive.
When I think of stories like John’s, I’m reminded of the difference we’ve made and the lives that have changed because of our community. I know that if they can persevere, if they can get through the challenges they’ve experienced, then I can keep moving forward too, regardless of what’s going on in my life or in the world around me. There is hope and light, even when the path ahead doesn’t seem so clear.
I’m grateful that everyone in our community is still healthy. Our teachers are continuing to conduct virtual lessons and we are waiting to hear when we will be able to reopen the school. I look forward to the day when our community will be filled with the sights and sounds of our children once again. I know that day will come. Until then, we’ll take it one day at time, together. Stay strong!
Jennifer Musick Wright
Executive Director & Founder