Wishes Fulfilled in the Mile High City

On October 12th, Children of Uganda’s Board of Directors, Program Director Ritah Namakula and I convened in Denver, CO for the organization’s annual fall board meeting. Ritah made the 28-hour journey from Uganda to share a first-hand account of our progress on the ground and to help participate in several events.

We were so blessed to be welcomed by local board members – Cheryl Hargrow (Board Chair) and Maria White (Treasurer) – who each hosted COU fundraisers with the support of their friends and family. We are beyond grateful to have raised over $20,000 via these combined events, which will be invested in our Family Empowerment Program, as well as help provide school requirements and healthcare for our most vulnerable children. Special thanks to our new child sponsors and first-time supporters!

One of the most fun and memorable moments from this trip was when Ritah saw snow for the very first time in her life. I have been Executive Director for over a decade and one of the most thrilling experiences for me is seeing the world through the eyes of our beloved children and Ugandan staff members. Ritah shared that her biggest wish in visiting Denver was to see snow and we were all so thrilled that her wish came true!

We are excited to fulfill even more hopes and dreams in Uganda when our new 5-year Strategic Plan officially rolls out on January 1st, 2019. At the board meeting, we put the finishing touches on the plan. Education will remain our core program; however, our goal is to expand our Family Empowerment Program to include even more guardians and income-generating projects. Thanks to The 100 Women Club, which has supported these projects over the past year, we have seen lives and businesses literally transformed. We are truly inspired by your generosity and the determination of Uganda’s women.