Category: Uncategorized

NEW BEGINNINGS

New beginnings are often bittersweet. This sentiment is definitely true as we celebrate the milestone transformations of several Hope for Life youth.

In the past year, eight young men have officially transitioned from Hope for Life’s programs, starting their lives as independent adults. Each of them were equipped to go from living on the streets, to finding stability while living at the rehabilitative home, were reintegrated into the community program, and now have graduated into independent living.

We could not be more proud of them and all they have overcome to accomplish such a meaningful rite of passage! Thanks to YOU for equipping these incredible men with the resources they needed to imagine and achieve a flourishing future for themselves. We’ve featured each graduate below to celebrate their hard work and success.

DAVID

Age: 25 | Computer Repairman

First came to HFL: 2009

OBED

Age: 19 | Barber

First came to HFL: 2009

JEAN PETER

Age: 24 | Welder

First came to HFL: 2009

PATRICK

Age: 23 | Welder

First came to HFL: 2010

EMILE

Age: 21 | Mechanic

First came to HFL: 2013

D´AMOUR

Age: 23 | Photographer

First came to HFL: 2009

JOHN

Age: 20 | Welder

First came to HFL: 2009

BERCO

Age: 20 | Welder

First came to HFL: 2009

Amanda and Emile

Emile’s journey to Hope for Life is not unlike the journeys of many of our boys. But his current transition into a self-supporting adult is what we hope for all of the children who come to us. At just 11-years-old, Emile made the difficult decision to move to the streets rather than continue to live in extreme poverty at home. When he arrived at Hope for Life’s rehabilitative home, he was one of the smallest boys we’ve ever seen due to malnourishment. His warmth and ability to make others laugh quickly stood out.

The time Emile spent at the rehabilitative home was not always easy. Living on the streets for many years without attending school made Emile’s return to the classroom extremely challenging. Despite his hard work and outside resources, he struggled to catch up. After three years at the rehabilitative home, Emile was reintegrated with his family and he moved back home. At that time, he started vocational training to learn auto mechanics, a path much more suited for his strengths and interests rather than traditional school. Reintegration brought new challenges for both him and his parents as everyone had to learn how to be a family again. But Emile persevered and after several years of training and starting his own business, he is successfully working as a mechanic and independently supporting himself. We are all so proud of Emile and are grateful to you for making his success possible.

10 YEAR ANNIVERSARY

This year, Hope for Life celebrates its 10 year anniversary! Thank you to ALL of our partners who have made the past decade possible.

Because of you, over 100 children have been empowered to leave the streets for good. Over 230 children have enrolled in school, 11 youth who were formerly homeless have graduated high school or vocational training, are now employed, and have reached financial independence. Three children have received life-saving surgeries. In total, over 900 lives have been improved thanks to your love, generosity, and belief that all children deserve the opportunity to have flourishing futures.

Early days in 2010

EXCITING GROWTH HAPPENING IN RWANDA!

BREAKING NEWS! To usher in the next 10 years at Hope for Life, we are excited to announce a season of growth. In the coming weeks, the team in Rwanda will break ground to build a second rehabilitative home and administrative facility. And later this year, we will be launching a new Community Outreach Program.

The second rehabilitative home will be a two-story building which will help facilitate transformations for 32 children at a time, doubling the current capacity of the rehabilitative program. Similar to our current rehabilitative home, 24/7 holistic care will be offered to children transitioning out of homelessness and extreme poverty. Services will include school enrollment, medical care, trauma counseling, Christian discipleship, and family reconciliation.

The administrative facility will provide space for the growing staff in Rwanda to be effective caregivers and professionals. This space will also be available to the community as a resource where they can gather for meetings, trainings, and come to learn. The facility will house a dedicated computer lab, classroom, and library. With the goal of reconciling and reintegrating as many children as possible with their families, the administrative facility will also offer visiting family members a place to stay with two bedrooms, a bathroom, and kitchen. Because many family members of the boys live so far away, visits can be challenging and often cut short. By providing a space to stay, families can take the proper time they need to heal and move forward.

Additionally, a new program is launching this year. The Community Outreach Program will provide emergency day-services to children currently experiencing homelessness, serving 50 children each week. Children and youth who are on the streets will be able to come and eat a warm meal, take a shower, and meet with Hope for Life staff who will provide community resources. Children will come to know they are loved and that there is hope.

This exciting growth is not possible without the support of dedicated partners like you. We invite you to join us in this new season by making a gift at www.hopeforlife.us/nextchapter.

THANK YOU for empowering even more children to flourish!

A 2018 SNAPSHOT

2018 was another exciting year for Hope for Life. Thank you for making it all possible! Below is a glimpse of what you helped accomplish.

A full report can be found at hopeforlife.us/2019report.

REHABILITATION PROGRAM

38

Children served

7

New Children

2

Reintegrated home

COMMUNITY SPONSORSHIP

74

Children sponsored

31

New Children

7

Completed vocational training

CELEBRATING HOPE GALA

On March 23rd, the U.S. team hosted the Celebrating Hope Gala in Seattle, WA. An empty airplane hangar was transformed for an evening of fun, inspiration, and generosity. Chantal Umutesi, HFL’s Executive Director in Rwanda, was the guest of honor at the largest Gala yet with over 250 guests and 42 volunteers. Sixty new partners were introduced to Hope for Life and over $193,000 was raised to holistically support vulnerable children!

Thank you to everyone who attended, volunteered, and supported this event to make it a huge success!

2019 LEARNING TRIP

The 2019 Learning Trip to Rwanda is taking place from November 9th-19th! Applications are now available at hopeforlife.us/get-involved. If you’re interested, we encourage you to read the FAQs and apply. All selected travelers are required to attend pre and post-trip trainings.

Applications are due August 5th!

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Love Wins

It was late afternoon when Hope for Life’s (HFL) Learning Trip participants arrived to the Nyabugogo neighborhood of Kigali, Rwanda. Chantal, HFL Rwanda’s Executive Director, had driven the car as fast as she could, trying to beat the dark rain clouds looming over the distant hills.

We were scheduled to meet Daniel, an 8-year-old boy in HFL’s Community Sponsorship Program. Daniel’s neighborhood was unlike any others we had seen or visited. Small huts were aligned in narrow rows with tin roofs. Women and children sat outside, huddled around small stoves, just starting to make supper. Laundry hung on lines strewn between the homes. As a group that included three white people, we were used to the curious stares, but walking to Daniel’s home, amidst great poverty, I became acutely aware that I was a stranger and prayed we were not intruding.

Daniel’s mother soon arrived and my anxious feelings dissipated. Carrying a one-year-old on her hip, she welcomed us to her neighborhood and happily lead us through a narrow path between two rows of crowded huts. We suddenly arrived and peered into a dark, 4×6 foot room, roughly half the size of their house. It took several seconds for my eyes to adjust to the darkness before my eyes saw Daniel, sitting in his wheelchair in the corner of the room.

Daniel, the oldest of the three children, was home on school break. Right away, he began making jokes. While I couldn’t understand his punchlines due to the language barrier, he had everyone else in stitches. I instantly liked him. One of the first things I noticed was the bond between Daniel and his mother. It was obvious she deeply loved her children and that Daniel deeply loved his mother.

Living in extreme poverty with three children, one of whom has special needs, is a struggle that I cannot fully comprehend. Additionally, Daniel’s father suffers from addiction and is often absent or abusive.

Six months ago, before finding HFL, Daniel often spent his days home alone. Unable to push a wheelchair through the narrow alleys of their neighborhood while also carrying two small children, Daniel’s mom would have no option but to leave him home while venturing out to find work to feed her family. Daniel didn’t have friends in the neighborhood and dreamed of going to school like other children.

Today, thanks to your support, Daniel gets to spend the school year at a special boarding school for children with disabilities. His family receives regular visits from HFL’s Social Worker who provides holistic support and ensures they have the resources they need. This year, Daniel will begin physical therapy with the hope that one day he will be able to walk with crutches.

Daniel eagerly began sharing how he and his family are doing. He spoke of being glad to spend time with his mom during school break but also of looking forward to returning to school the following month. While he is at school he has friends, more mobility, and is achieving his dreams. At home, he is surrounded by his mother’s love, the resources he needs, and support from HFL staff members.

We left Daniel’s home just as the rain started to sprinkle down. I felt a deep sense of appreciation for our community of supporters, for you. Because of your care and generosity, Daniel has the opportunity to attend a school just for children like him, and his mother doesn’t have to worry about paying for the tuition. While he is at school, she is able to work and help provide for her family. And slowly, because of your partnership, the cycle of poverty is breaking. As we reached the car, I knew one thing for certain: Daniel was loved, by people near and far. And that is a pretty amazing thing.

– Ally Shook, HFL US Assistant Director

We are excited to announce our 3rd Annual Learning Trip to Rwanda! This year’s trip will tentatively occur November 9th through 19th.

This is an opportunity for you to learn about Hope for Life’s ongoing efforts fighting child homelessness and extreme poverty. You will spend time learning from our talented Rwandan partners, get a glimpse into the impact your partnership is empowering in children’s lives, and be inspired to return home as advocates.

It’s time to celebrate ten years of empowering children together at this year’s Annual Gala!

This inspiring event is taking place on Saturday, March 23, 2019 at Magnuson Park in Seattle. To usher in the next decade, we will be revealing an exciting vision for 2019 and beyond, and you’ll have the chance to partner with us. If you live in the Greater Seattle area, there are many ways to get involved:

Attend the event. Register at charityauction.bid/celebratinghope
Volunteer. We have many volunteer needs the week of and the night of the gala. Learn more and sign up at hopeforlife.us/volunteergala
Donate an Auction Item. We are collecting high end, new auction items for our silent auction. Have a vacation home, an unused gift card, or bottles of wine you could donate? Email Sophie at sophia@hopeforlife.us to learn more.

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Making Dreams A Reality

Post author By Admin
Post date November 19, 2018

Making Dreams A Reality

Have you ever had to make the difficult decision of choosing your dreams or doing what is needed in the moment? 20-year-old James is no stranger to this dilemma. In 2015, James eagerly and proudly entered high school, the first person in his family to reach that far in his education. He was thrilled for the chance to focus on his studies and work toward his dreams of becoming an entrepreneur. His excitement, however, was short lived as James learned that his mother was seriously ill. As the oldest child in a single parent household, James felt the burden of caring for his family. He found a full-time job as a cook to be able to pay for his mother’s medicine, to provide financially for his four younger siblings, and pay for his school fees. He tried his best to study in his limited free time but his grades inevitably began slipping as he struggled to work full-time and care for his family. It looked like James would have to drop out of school.

Then, in 2016, James found Hope for Life and learned about our community sponsorship program. The program focuses on providing support to vulnerable families with the goal of keeping children in school and families together. Today, James no longer has to worry about choosing between school and his family. He is able to focus on his studies while also being present to help his family. He is in his last year of high school and after graduation he dreams of opening a business and being able to pay for his sibling’s school fees himself.

On school breaks, James enjoys visiting Hope for Life’s staff and the children in our rehabilitative home. He loves teaching the kids acrobatics, gymnastics and encouraging them in their faith. He is a role model to his younger siblings, to the children at Hope for Life’s home, and to his watching community.

Without your support, James would have been forced to drop out of school and he and his family would have likely remained stuck in the cycle of poverty. Thank you for your partnership that is helping make dreams a reality for families like James’!

Over 20 children in Hope for Life’s community program are waiting for a sponsor – someone to commit to providing for their school fees each month so they can achieve flourishing futures. You can become a sponsor to one of these children for less than $1.50 a day.

For more information, please visit www.hopeforlife.us/sponsor-a-child

Saturday, March 23, 2019

Formal invitation and details to follow

BY THE NUMBERS

6

youth transitioned from homelessness into full time care at HFL’s rehabilitative home

31

youth enrolled in school who weren’t otherwise attending

103

total youth currently in HFL programs

96%

children in HFL’s rehabilitative program maintaining a C+ average or higher in school

6

children reintegrated into homes

3

children equipped to start their own businesses

FYI

We’ve updated our email and website addresses!

Administrative Support: admin@hopeforlife.us US Executive Director: megan@hopeforlife.us

www.hopeforlife.us

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I’m Not a Zombie, I Swear

Post author By Hope For Life
Post date August 28, 2018

I'm Not a Zombie, I Swear

By Amanda Taylor

A few weeks ago I walked into our home for boys and met eyes with a beautiful yet, unfamiliar face. The child was very small, wearing pink clothes, and had a fairly girlish face. My initial thought was …” Hmm, maybe two year old girl, and oh, I think I’m in love with this little angel!” That thought was quickly shaken when the screaming ensued. I thought to myself, ooooh, right, my skin color. Terrifying to some, I know. I brought such a wave of fear over this three year old that my only reaction was to drop to my knees and look as small as I could. I felt like a puddle wanting to spread over the floor. I kneeled on my knees, resting on my heels, and didn’t make direct eye contact. The little one was now softly crying. Two other small boys were home, they both rushed up and hugged me. They looked at the crying child and said, “Don’t have fear! No problem.” After some time, I stood up slowly and walked away. I knew this was going to take time. My coworker shortly after told me, he is a three year old boy and that he was told that Abazungu (white people) eat people. Haha, solid.

I quickly learned, our social worker was the one who had brought Berite. Berite’s mother is currently extremely sick. She has HIV, cancer, and multiple infections. The mother was making a living from prostitution and Berite’s father was not in the picture. We had agreed to take in Berite so the Mom could seek treatment and any operations that could try to improve her health. My heart hurt for the mother. She had to let go of what was likely the one light in her life so she could try to get herself healthy again. Then I thought about Berite. Here was this little angel, so very small, and innocent. Now, dropped off in an unknown place, with a house full of strangers, and white person zombie. I couldn’t fathom what was being processed in that little mind. I wanted to just scoop him up and hug him but I couldn’t. It was going to be some time before he would let my love in.

Instead of chasing the new one around the house and property, like I usually do, over the last few weeks, I got to be a bystander to the care that my boys gave to him. Even beginning to write about it now brings tears straight to my eyes. Our home has the sweetest boys, they make me melt. They have LOVED having someone younger in our house to take care of and its the most beautiful sight. They have such concern for how he’s doing. They see and hear his needs. They prioritize his needs. They do funny things to make him laugh. They run around the house playing with him or give him their last bite of food or porridge. They fight over who gets to hold him and carry him. They see him fall and they rush over to pick him up and hold him. They run home from school and greet him with huge hugs and smiles. The feeling I have in watching the boys care for him is so special, it feels indescribable. It makes me feel proud. I imagine this is how parents begin to feel when they start seeing their kids treating others with kindness and love. It brings a feeling inside of you, a joy that wells up.

It has been almost two months now and this little one has only recently finally warmed up to me! I’m grateful for the gift of just watching for a time, and the process its been. He spent the first few weeks looking fearfully at me. He would constantly watch my interactions with other boys in the house and in doing so, realized maybe I’m not so terrifying after all. A few weeks ago he came up, sat on my lap, and he was so tired just laying against me. I had this moment of “Yes! We made it.” Then, for whatever reason (I would guess fear still), he completely peed himself while sitting on me. I had pee all down my jeans, I had to laugh about it. The rest of the boys had a good laugh about that one too.

Yesterday afternoon, I sat in my office and worked on my computer. Berite came in and out of the room probably a dozen times. He sat on me, he next to me. He talked to me freely. I talked to my Mom and he sat there repeating words I said. I can’t get him to stop talking to me now. He looked at me, and smiled, and laughed. Later in the day, I looked at him, we met eyes, and both giggled. Safe to say, I think he’s let go of any ideas that I’m a zombie in disguise….

He loves acting like we’re on the phone together.

Today, I’m especially grateful for connection found on the other side of fear. What a rewarding experience, to draw near to others. I feel so fortunate to spend time working in an environment continually focused on the well-being of youth and families. Every individual continues to teach me something. What an amazing part of life to think that, at any moment our next teacher can cross our path. And sometimes, it just might start with a little screaming 🙂

Stay up-to-date with what is happening in Rwanda by following Amanda, Hope for Life’s Sponsorship Coordinator, on her blog!

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Boys Becoming Men

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Anyone who has worked with or parented children knows the feeling of swelling pride and celebration mixed with a tinge of sadness watching a child grow up. It happens when you watch him or her take their first steps, go off to kindergarten, or drive for the first time. At HFL, we have experienced this emotion even more than normal lately as this year, we’ve watched seven youth in our sponsorship program graduate from vocational training school. Seeing these young men go from sleeping outside with zero hope that life will improve, to graduating and entering the workforce, we sometimes feels that our hearts might explode.

Many of these young men are now the most educated members of their families; a position that comes with great pride, excitement, and responsibility. HFL commits to walking alongside each young adult until they are able to become financially independent, slowly phasing out our support along the way. A handful of the seven graduates have successfully found employment in their communities. For those unable to find work, HFL is helping them start their own small businesses, providing a steady foundation to launch from.

One of these young men is 22-year-old D’Amour. Tragically orphaned in his early years, D’Amour’s childhood was filled with regular mistreatment and eventual homelessness. When HFL staff met him, he was a fearful, timid, and unconfident boy. Over the next six years living at HFL’s rehabilitative home, we watched him slowly blossom into a courageous, humble, hopeful and determined young man. Upon completing film and photography school, he transitioned into living on his own and HFL helped him opened a small business with a classmate providing film and photo services.

D’Amour recalls, “When we opened the first day, we only had a scanner. We are slowly buying more materials so we can do more. We are dreaming to expand and grow our business and we are very, very grateful for this opportunity.”

As this group of young men begin a new chapter in their lives, we want to thank YOU for making this possible. Your support has enabled each of these young men to go from living on the streets, to believing they are valuable and capable of changing their futures, to now beginning to achieve their dreams as confident and flourishing young adults. THANK YOU! Please join us in keeping them in prayer during this new chapter of their lives.

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BY THE NUMBERS

3

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New children accepted into HFL’s home

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7

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Young adults graduated from school

96

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Children completed another quarter of school

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1

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New children accepted into HFL’s home

450

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Neighbors used HFL’s facilities for community meetings

[/fusion_text][/fusion_builder_column_inner][fusion_builder_column_inner type=”1_4″ layout=”1_2″ spacing=”” center_content=”no” hover_type=”none” link=”” min_height=”” hide_on_mobile=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” class=”” id=”” background_color=”” background_image=”” background_position=”left top” background_repeat=”no-repeat” border_size=”0″ border_color=”” border_style=”solid” padding_top=”” padding_right=”” padding_bottom=”” padding_left=”” dimension_margin=”” animation_type=”” animation_direction=”left” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_offset=”” last=”no” border_position=”all” element_content=””][/fusion_builder_column_inner][/fusion_builder_row_inner][/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container][fusion_builder_container admin_label=”DECO 3″ hundred_percent=”yes” hundred_percent_height=”no” hundred_percent_height_scroll=”no” hundred_percent_height_center_content=”yes” equal_height_columns=”no” menu_anchor=”” hide_on_mobile=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” class=”” id=”” background_color=”” background_image=”http://www.hopeforlife.us/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/BorderPattern-Mustard.png” background_position=”center center” background_repeat=”no-repeat” fade=”no” background_parallax=”none” enable_mobile=”no” parallax_speed=”0.3″ video_mp4=”” video_webm=”” video_ogv=”” video_url=”” video_aspect_ratio=”16:9″ video_loop=”yes” video_mute=”yes” video_preview_image=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” padding_top=”0px” padding_right=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px” padding_left=”0px” admin_toggled=”yes”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ layout=”1_1″ spacing=”” center_content=”no” link=”” target=”_self” min_height=”” hide_on_mobile=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” class=”” id=”” background_color=”” background_image=”” background_position=”left top” background_repeat=”no-repeat” hover_type=”none” border_size=”0″ border_color=”” border_style=”solid” border_position=”all” padding_top=”” padding_right=”” padding_bottom=”” padding_left=”” dimension_margin=”” animation_type=”” animation_direction=”left” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_offset=”” last=”no”][fusion_separator style_type=”default” hide_on_mobile=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” class=”” id=”” sep_color=”rgba(0,170,173,0)” top_margin=”20px” bottom_margin=”” border_size=”1″ icon=”” icon_circle=”” icon_circle_color=”” width=”” alignment=”center” /][/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container][fusion_builder_container admin_label=”2018 LEARNING TRIP” hundred_percent=”no” hundred_percent_height=”no” hundred_percent_height_scroll=”no” hundred_percent_height_center_content=”yes” equal_height_columns=”no” menu_anchor=”” hide_on_mobile=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” class=”” id=”” background_color=”” background_image=”” background_position=”center center” background_repeat=”no-repeat” fade=”no” background_parallax=”none” enable_mobile=”no” parallax_speed=”0.3″ video_mp4=”” video_webm=”” video_ogv=”” video_url=”” video_aspect_ratio=”16:9″ video_loop=”yes” video_mute=”yes” video_preview_image=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”” padding_top=”” padding_right=”” padding_bottom=”75px” padding_left=”” admin_toggled=”yes”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ layout=”1_2″ spacing=”” center_content=”no” hover_type=”none” link=”” min_height=”” hide_on_mobile=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” class=”” id=”” background_color=”” background_image=”” background_position=”left top” background_repeat=”no-repeat” border_size=”0″ border_color=”” border_style=”solid” border_position=”all” padding_top=”” padding_right=”” padding_bottom=”” padding_left=”” dimension_margin=”” animation_type=”” animation_direction=”left” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_offset=”” last=”no”][fusion_imageframe image_id=”5244″ style_type=”none” stylecolor=”” hover_type=”none” bordersize=”” bordercolor=”” borderradius=”” align=”none” lightbox=”no” gallery_id=”” lightbox_image=”” alt=”” link=”” linktarget=”_self” hide_on_mobile=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_direction=”left” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_offset=””]http://www.hopeforlife.us/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/learningtrip-header2.jpg[/fusion_imageframe][fusion_text]

2018 LEARNING TRIP

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We are excited to announce our 2nd Annual Learning Trip to Rwanda. This year’s trip will occur November 28 through December 8, 2018. This is an opportunity for you to learn about Hope for Life’s ongoing efforts in fighting child homelessness and extreme poverty. You will meet the children in our programs and our talented Rwandan partners, get a glimpse into how your partnership is empowering lives, and be inspired to return home as advocates.

JOIN THE TEAM

Looking for a way to get more involved by sharing your time and talents? For those in the Seattle area, we have several opportunities to join our team, including a new internship program. Volunteer and intern positions offer hands on experience in a non-profit setting as well as the opportunity to develop a variety of professional skills.

ANNUAL REPORT

Thank you for making 2017 an impactful year!

Read more about what you helped accomplish below.

[/fusion_text][fusion_separator style_type=”none” hide_on_mobile=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” class=”” id=”” sep_color=”rgba(0,170,173,0)” top_margin=”20px” bottom_margin=”0px” border_size=”” icon=”” icon_circle=”” icon_circle_color=”” width=”” alignment=”center” /][fusion_button link=”http://www.hopeforlife.us/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/2017-annual-report-web-1.pdf” title=”” target=”_blank” link_attributes=”” alignment=”center” modal=”” hide_on_mobile=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” class=”” id=”” color=”custom” button_gradient_top_color=”” button_gradient_bottom_color=”” button_gradient_top_color_hover=”” button_gradient_bottom_color_hover=”” accent_color=”#24b0af” accent_hover_color=”#357a55″ type=”” bevel_color=”” border_width=”” size=”xlarge” stretch=”default” shape=”” icon=”” icon_position=”left” icon_divider=”no” animation_type=”” animation_direction=”left” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_offset=””]2017 ANNUAL REPORT[/fusion_button][fusion_separator style_type=”none” hide_on_mobile=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” class=”” id=”” sep_color=”rgba(0,170,173,0)” top_margin=”340px” bottom_margin=”0px” border_size=”” icon=”” icon_circle=”” icon_circle_color=”” width=”” alignment=”center” /][/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container][fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”no” hundred_percent_height=”no” hundred_percent_height_scroll=”no” hundred_percent_height_center_content=”yes” equal_height_columns=”no” menu_anchor=”” hide_on_mobile=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” class=”” id=”” background_color=”” background_image=”” background_position=”center center” background_repeat=”no-repeat” fade=”no” background_parallax=”none” enable_mobile=”no” parallax_speed=”0.3″ video_mp4=”” video_webm=”” video_ogv=”” video_url=”” video_aspect_ratio=”16:9″ video_loop=”yes” video_mute=”yes” video_preview_image=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” margin_top=”” margin_bottom=”” padding_top=”” padding_right=”” padding_bottom=”100px” padding_left=””][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ layout=”1_1″ spacing=”” center_content=”no” link=”” target=”_self” min_height=”” hide_on_mobile=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” class=”” id=”” background_color=”” background_image=”” background_position=”left top” background_repeat=”no-repeat” hover_type=”none” border_size=”0″ border_color=”” border_style=”solid” border_position=”all” padding_top=”” padding_right=”” padding_bottom=”” padding_left=”” dimension_margin=”” animation_type=”” animation_direction=”left” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_offset=”” last=”no”][fusion_imageframe image_id=”5269″ style_type=”none” stylecolor=”” hover_type=”none” bordersize=”” bordercolor=”” borderradius=”” align=”center” lightbox=”no” gallery_id=”” lightbox_image=”” alt=”” link=”” linktarget=”_self” hide_on_mobile=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_direction=”left” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_offset=””]http://www.hopeforlife.us/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/hilliary-update.jpg[/fusion_imageframe][fusion_separator style_type=”none” hide_on_mobile=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” class=”” id=”” sep_color=”rgba(0,170,173,0)” top_margin=”20px” bottom_margin=”0px” border_size=”” icon=”” icon_circle=”” icon_circle_color=”” width=”” alignment=”center” /][fusion_button link=”http://www.hopeforlife.us/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Hilliary-letter.pdf” title=”” target=”_blank” link_attributes=”” alignment=”center” modal=”” hide_on_mobile=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” class=”” id=”” color=”custom” button_gradient_top_color=”” button_gradient_bottom_color=”” button_gradient_top_color_hover=”” button_gradient_bottom_color_hover=”” accent_color=”#24b0af” accent_hover_color=”#357a55″ type=”” bevel_color=”” border_width=”” size=”xlarge” stretch=”default” shape=”” icon=”” icon_position=”left” icon_divider=”no” animation_type=”” animation_direction=”left” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_offset=””]UPDATE FROM HFL’S CO-FOUNDER [/fusion_button][/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]

Uncategorized

A little love, a little food, a place to sleep

Post author By Hope For Life
Post date February 10, 2018
No Comments on A little love, a little food, a place to sleep

Recently, Hope for Life hosted its first group Learning Trip in Rwanda. Four supporters from the US joined Megan Chao, US Executive Director, for 10 days to learn about the factors that contribute to child homelessness in East Africa, hear stories of impact, and form relationships with the staff and children. It was a wonderful first trip and we’re excited to host similar trips in the future!

One trip participant was Michael Renda from the Chicago area. Upon returning home, he wrote a beautiful piece about his time that we’re honored to share with you below.

“A little love, a little food and a place to sleep. Three simple things my family and I take for granted every day. A couple of weeks ago, I was able to meet 30 young men and boys who at one time did not have any of those three things in their lives. Boys as young as 7-years-old, leaving their homes and deciding they had a better chance of survival on the streets than living with their families.

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I would like to share about one boy whose story is only a couple of months old. Last year, he watched both his parents pass away. With no other family, he took to the streets with his younger sister to survive. Being on the streets and feeding yourself I am sure is hard enough, but to have a second mouth to feed is even tougher. Eventually, he watched his sister die of starvation leaving only him. In a small miracle, a man found him sleeping on the streets and asked if he had anywhere to go. When he said he did not, the man pointed him to Hope for Life and said they are often able to help. Hope for Life is currently running at capacity, but after hearing his story, they knew they could not turn him away. Fast forward six weeks, when this boy with the most simple of actions brought me to tears on three different occasions.

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A Little Love I sat around a circle with him and a group of his friends. They asked question after question about silly things. I would answer and an older boy would translate. They asked me a silly question about my dogs and where they go to the bathroom. I explained we had a bell that hangs on the door and they ring it. Once the older boy translated, you would have thought I told the funniest joke of all time. The whole group was laughing but the young boy, who only six weeks earlier was living on the streets, was laughing uncontrollably. Being surrounded by friends in a safe place and watching him laugh brought me so much Joy that I began to cry.

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A Little Food We were able to join a special event with the boys one day. It also involved all of us eating together. I sat with the boys and waited for the food to be served. Across from me was the young boy, who six weeks ago was close to starvation. Once the food arrived, I happen to look across the table at him. There were onions on top of the meat and chips. He doesn’t care much for onions, so he picked them off and handed them to the boy next to him. Again came the tears as I thought how perfect it was that he no longer worries about his next meal that he can give away some of his own. Such a simple act, but for me, so much Joy.

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A Place to Sleep The boys have two bunk beds per room. With some of the older boys back from boarding school for the holiday break, they had to double up in beds. The first day I was there, the young boy took me by the hand and showed me his bed. He wouldn’t have cared if he shared it with three other boys and there were 20 bunks in the room, he was so proud that this one was his. As you may have guessed, the whole scene brought tears of joy to my eyes.

I personally struggle to find joy in this world. There were many times I experienced joy on this trip. The fact that this boy, whose life should have left him with no joy, could repeatedly be the source of joy is a miracle in itself.

I appreciate Hope For Life for showing me their ministry. It also has a good back story that I would encourage you to read about on their website. Two young women who befriended some homeless boys while teaching in Rwanda.

I also encourage you to follow Amanda Good on social media. She can share stories of joy and transformation like no one else. She is an amazing young woman.

A little love, a little food and a place to sleep. Not sure the order or how much of each you need to transform a child’s life. I just know from first-hand experience that the three together lead to some amazing transformations.”

-Michael Renda

Uncategorized

Ways to Support the 4th Annual Gala

Post author By Hope For Life
Post date January 6, 2018
No Comments on Ways to Support the 4th Annual Gala

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Hope for Life is excited to celebrate with you at our 4th Annual Gala! This is a fun-filled evening of inspiration and generosity. The event includes a delicious catered dinner, powerful program, unlimited beer and wine, a silent auction, and raising funds to continue empowering children in Rwanda to escape homelessness.

The Gala is made possible because of a deeply generous community coming together for a common purpose. If you would like to purchase tickets to the Gala, please visit charityauction.bid/HopeForLife2018Gala.

See below if you would like to get more involved or support the Gala in other ways:

1) Auction Items

Donate an item to be part of our silent auction! Items can be mailed to:

PO Box 75684

Seattle, WA 98175

or we can schedule a pick-up. Questions or interest should be directed to kim@hopeforlifeministry.org.

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2) Matching Sponsors

Consider becoming a matching sponsor by giving a financial donation of any size to be used toward a matching pool that will inspire guests to give more generously at the event. Businesses or individuals can donate. Please contact megan@hopeforlifeministry.org for questions or more information.

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3) Wine Donations

Hope for Life is collecting any and all wine with a value of at least $10. The wine will be used toward the fun and exciting “wine grab” portion of the event. Pick-up is available for the Seattle area. Please contact kim@hopeforlifeministry.org if interested!

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4) Dessert Donations

We are collecting professionally or home-baked goods for the thrilling dessert dash portion of the event. Pick-up options are available for the Seattle area. Please contact kim@hopeforlifeministry.org for more information.

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5) Volunteer!

Hope for Life relies on the generous support of volunteers to make our annual fundraising Gala a success. Check out the Gala volunteer opportunities here.

Thank you for your interest in supporting the 4th Annual Gala! If you would like to get more involved in other ways, please contact admin@hopeforlifeministry.org

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Uncategorized

You Inspire Us

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Your involvement has shown us time and time again how powerful it is when people decide to use their time, networks and resources to impact children in Rwanda. You regularly blow us away with your passion and the innovative and creative ways you find to raise awareness and funds.

One such inspiration is the Bindloss-Gibb family who sponsor a child in Hope for Life’s rehabilitative program. This year for Mark’s birthday, he decided to use his birthday as a platform to raise awareness and funds for Hope for Life. Instead of purchasing gifts, he asked his family and friends to donate to Hope for Life instead. It was a relatively simple yet overwhelmingly powerful choice.

Together, Mark’s friends and family raised an amazing $1,000! Those funds made some long-time dreams come true such as purchasing a fridge for our kitchen, building swings, a permanent soccer goal and field for our kids to enjoy, and starting a garden project for our older youth. We’re particularly excited about the garden project as it’s a way for our staff to spend quality time with some of our more introverted, older kids. In the next few months, we should start to see fruit growing!

A special thank you to Mark for pledging your birthday to bring smiles to others, and to all his friends and family who made these dreams a reality for our children.

Interested in doing something similar? Let us know at admin@hopeforlifeministry.org.

Thank you for all you do to inspire and serve!

Uncategorized

Report Cards are Here!

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”no” equal_height_columns=”no” menu_anchor=”” hide_on_mobile=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” class=”” id=”” background_color=”” background_image=”” background_position=”center center” background_repeat=”no-repeat” fade=”no” background_parallax=”none” parallax_speed=”0.3″ video_mp4=”” video_webm=”” video_ogv=”” video_url=”” video_aspect_ratio=”16:9″ video_loop=”yes” video_mute=”yes” overlay_color=”” video_preview_image=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” padding_top=”” padding_bottom=”” padding_left=”” padding_right=””][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ layout=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” border_position=”all” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” center_content=”no” last=”no” min_height=”” hover_type=”none” link=””][fusion_imageframe image_id=”4054″ style_type=”none” stylecolor=”” hover_type=”none” bordersize=”” bordercolor=”” borderradius=”” align=”none” lightbox=”no” gallery_id=”” lightbox_image=”” alt=”” link=”” linktarget=”_self” hide_on_mobile=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_direction=”left” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_offset=””]http://www.hopeforlife.us/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/header-blog.jpg[/fusion_imageframe][fusion_separator style_type=”none” hide_on_mobile=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” class=”” id=”” sep_color=”rgba(0,170,173,0)” top_margin=”10px” bottom_margin=”10px” border_size=”” icon=”” icon_circle=”” icon_circle_color=”” width=”” alignment=”center” /][fusion_text]Many of the children in Hope for Life’s programs showed GREAT success after what had been a challenging year. At the end of the last school year, many of the boys in our rehabilitation program finished with lower than expected grades. There was great disappointment and frustration. What could have turned sour, though, our tenacious boys used as fuel to encourage themselves. As boy after boy made a goal to improve in school, a noticeable shift started to occur in our home’s culture and attitude surrounding education. We added a teacher to our staff team, and the kids started choosing to spend extra time studying in the evenings. Even occasional power outages didn’t stop these boys as they would huddle around a candle instead.

We are proud to report that out of the 24 young men living in Hope for Life’s Hovde house, THREE received the top scores in their class, and FIVE others were in the top four! This is truly mind blowing as many of these children have either never been to school before or have resumed their studies after being forced to take several years off.

UPDATE ON AIMABLE

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Aimable came to HFL last year after enduring two years of homelessness. Out of the six trimesters he has completed while at HFL, he has remarkably been #1 in his class five times! He’s only 10-years-old but this boy has big dreams to finish secondary school, attend university outside of Rwanda, and then become a dancer. We are so grateful that his future won’t be spent on the streets but in a place where he will have the opportunity to chase his dreams! Dream on, Little Dancer.

Once children begin to shed the identity of their past, they begin looking forward instead of backward. Education provides a doorway to a new world of possibilities for their lives. Before HFL, most children’s dreams consisted of surviving another day. When you ask a child now what they envision for their future, their eyes light up, and a smile washes over their face as they tell you that they dream of becoming judges, businessmen, dancers, soccer players, pastors, and even the president.

Thank you for your role in allowing children in Rwanda to dream and to work hard toward their goals!

[/fusion_text][/fusion_builder_column][fusion_builder_column type=”1_2″ layout=”1_2″ spacing=”” center_content=”no” hover_type=”none” link=”” min_height=”” hide_on_mobile=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” class=”” id=”” background_color=”” background_image=”” background_position=”left top” background_repeat=”no-repeat” border_size=”0″ border_color=”” border_style=”solid” border_position=”all” padding=”” dimension_margin=”” animation_type=”” animation_direction=”left” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_offset=”” last=”no”][fusion_imageframe image_id=”4071″ style_type=”none” stylecolor=”” hover_type=”none” bordersize=”” bordercolor=”” borderradius=”” align=”none” lightbox=”no” gallery_id=”” lightbox_image=”” alt=”” link=”” linktarget=”_self” hide_on_mobile=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_direction=”left” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_offset=””]http://www.hopeforlife.us/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/3pic.jpg[/fusion_imageframe][/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container][fusion_builder_container admin_label=”” hundred_percent=”no” equal_height_columns=”no” menu_anchor=”” hide_on_mobile=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” class=”” id=”” background_color=”” background_image=”” background_position=”center center” background_repeat=”no-repeat” fade=”no” background_parallax=”none” enable_mobile=”no” parallax_speed=”0.3″ video_mp4=”” video_webm=”” video_ogv=”” video_url=”” video_aspect_ratio=”16:9″ video_loop=”yes” video_mute=”yes” video_preview_image=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” margin_top=”30px” margin_bottom=”30px” padding_top=”” padding_right=”” padding_bottom=”” padding_left=””][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ layout=”1_1″ spacing=”” center_content=”no” hover_type=”none” link=”” min_height=”” hide_on_mobile=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” class=”” id=”” background_color=”” background_image=”” background_position=”left top” background_repeat=”no-repeat” border_size=”0″ border_color=”” border_style=”solid” border_position=”all” padding=”” dimension_margin=”” animation_type=”” animation_direction=”left” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_offset=”” last=”no” element_content=””][fusion_imageframe image_id=”4077″ style_type=”none” stylecolor=”” hover_type=”none” bordersize=”” bordercolor=”” borderradius=”” align=”center” lightbox=”no” gallery_id=”” lightbox_image=”” alt=”” link=”” linktarget=”_self” hide_on_mobile=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_direction=”left” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_offset=””]http://www.hopeforlife.us/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/MeganChao-signature.png[/fusion_imageframe][fusion_text]

Megan Chao
US Executive Director

[/fusion_text][/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container][fusion_builder_container admin_label=”” hundred_percent=”no” equal_height_columns=”no” menu_anchor=”” hide_on_mobile=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” class=”” id=”” background_color=”” background_image=”” background_position=”center center” background_repeat=”no-repeat” fade=”no” background_parallax=”none” enable_mobile=”no” parallax_speed=”0.3″ video_mp4=”” video_webm=”” video_ogv=”” video_url=”” video_aspect_ratio=”16:9″ video_loop=”yes” video_mute=”yes” video_preview_image=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” margin_top=”60px” margin_bottom=”30px” padding_top=”” padding_right=”” padding_bottom=”” padding_left=””][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_4″ layout=”1_4″ spacing=”” center_content=”no” hover_type=”none” link=”” min_height=”” hide_on_mobile=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” class=”” id=”” background_color=”” background_image=”” background_position=”left top” background_repeat=”no-repeat” border_size=”0″ border_color=”” border_style=”solid” border_position=”all” padding=”” dimension_margin=”” animation_type=”” animation_direction=”left” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_offset=”” last=”no” element_content=””][/fusion_builder_column][fusion_builder_column type=”1_2″ layout=”1_2″ spacing=”” center_content=”no” hover_type=”none” link=”” min_height=”” hide_on_mobile=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” class=”” id=”” background_color=”” background_image=”” background_position=”left top” background_repeat=”no-repeat” border_size=”0″ border_color=”” border_style=”solid” border_position=”all” padding=”” animation_type=”” animation_direction=”left” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_offset=”” last=”no”][fusion_button link=”https://hopeforlifeministry.z2systems.com/np/clients/hopeforlifeministry/donation.jsp” title=”” target=”_self” alignment=”center” modal=”” hide_on_mobile=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” class=”” id=”” color=”default” button_gradient_top_color=”” button_gradient_bottom_color=”” button_gradient_top_color_hover=”” button_gradient_bottom_color_hover=”” accent_color=”” accent_hover_color=”” type=”” bevel_color=”” border_width=”” size=”xlarge” stretch=”default” shape=”square” icon=”” icon_position=”left” icon_divider=”no” animation_type=”” animation_direction=”left” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_offset=””]DONATE[/fusion_button][/fusion_builder_column][fusion_builder_column type=”1_4″ layout=”1_4″ spacing=”” center_content=”no” hover_type=”none” link=”” min_height=”” hide_on_mobile=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” class=”” id=”” background_color=”” background_image=”” background_position=”left top” background_repeat=”no-repeat” border_size=”0″ border_color=”” border_style=”solid” border_position=”all” padding=”” animation_type=”” animation_direction=”left” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_offset=”” last=”no” element_content=””][/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container][fusion_builder_container admin_label=”” hundred_percent=”no” equal_height_columns=”no” menu_anchor=”” hide_on_mobile=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” class=”” id=”” background_color=”#f7f7f7″ background_image=”” background_position=”center center” background_repeat=”no-repeat” fade=”no” background_parallax=”none” enable_mobile=”no” parallax_speed=”0.3″ video_mp4=”” video_webm=”” video_ogv=”” video_url=”” video_aspect_ratio=”16:9″ video_loop=”yes” video_mute=”yes” video_preview_image=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” margin_top=”80px” margin_bottom=”80px” padding_top=”20px” padding_right=”20px” padding_bottom=”20px” padding_left=”20px”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ layout=”1_1″ spacing=”” center_content=”no” hover_type=”none” link=”” min_height=”” hide_on_mobile=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” class=”” id=”” background_color=”” background_image=”” background_position=”left top” background_repeat=”no-repeat” border_size=”0″ border_color=”” border_style=”solid” border_position=”all” padding=”” animation_type=”” animation_direction=”left” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_offset=”” last=”no”][fusion_text]65 currently enrolled in school through HFL’s programs

55% attending school for the first time

8 scored in the top four in their classes

7 pursuing vocational training[/fusion_text][/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]

Uncategorized

A New Chapter for Hope for Life

Post author By Hope For Life
Post date March 24, 2017
No Comments on A New Chapter for Hope for Life

Screen Shot 2017-03-24 at 11.24.23 AM

As we turn eight years old this month, we intentionally pause to celebrate God’s faithfulness and our accomplishments together. We never imagined that advocating for our friend’s release from prison would spark and sustain such an incredible movement of sacrifice, transformation, and hope. Because you joined us in this mission, together we have enabled 75 children to escape homelessness or imprisonment, enrolled 133 children in school, and reunited countless families.

To celebrate, we are excited to announce that Hope for Life has applied to be our own 501c3 and can now receive gifts as our own organization! After eight years with Breakthrough Partners, who faithfully served as mentors and our fiscal sponsor, we are prepared to operate independently. This decision reduces funds spent on administration and maximizes each donation towards empowering families to rise out of poverty in Rwanda.

Please note that if you are a recurring donor, you should have received directions on how to transfer your subscription from Breakthrough Partners. If you did not receive that or have any questions, please email admin@hopeforlifeministry.org.

If you give via check, please begin writing them out to Hope for Life. Our new mailing address is:

Hope for Life

PO Box 75864

Seattle, WA 98175

Breakthrough Partners has been gracious and will ensure that any donations that come to them over the next few months will be forwarded to us.

Thank you for your continued support of Hope for Life as we begin a new chapter in our history! It wouldn’t be possible with you.

With gratitude,

MSsignature

US Executive Director / Co-Founder

NEW BEGINNINGS

DAVID

OBED

JEAN PETER

PATRICK

EMILE

D´AMOUR

JOHN

BERCO

10 YEAR ANNIVERSARY

EXCITING GROWTH HAPPENING IN RWANDA!

A 2018 SNAPSHOT

REHABILITATION PROGRAM

38

7

2

COMMUNITY SPONSORSHIP

74

31

7

CELEBRATING HOPE GALA

2019 LEARNING TRIP

Love Wins

Making Dreams A Reality

BY THE NUMBERS

6

31

103

96%

6

3

FYI

I'm Not a Zombie, I Swear

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