Children's Peace Libraries

Dear Friends & Family,

 

As you may well know, I am currently on a sabbatical from work. Leading up to my year off, I planned to spend time in Rwanda. I had thought that the global pandemic was going to get in the way of my long-awaited visit. But it is finally happening! The trip is shorter than I had initially hoped for, but I will take what I can get. I am heading to Rwanda!! April 12-May 18.

 

I have dreamed of visiting Rwanda for a long time. It is a small country (Canada is 380 times bigger than Rwanda) that is very densely populated and young - the median age is under 20. Rwandans have suffered deeply from colonialism, and its fallout, including the 1994 genocide. It is also a naturally beautiful country, full of positive growth and optimism. I am entirely grateful for the opportunity to travel there, and I recognize that my ability to visit is the result of incredible privilege. I desire to be able to contribute to Rwanda while I am there. I plan to do some volunteer guest lectures to social work students (university level) in Butare. I will also connect with the Quaker community, including some meaningful service projects that Quakers are involved in.

 

Starting in 2019, I raised funds for The Children’s Peace Libraries, a project doing valuable and impactful work in Rwanda. The Children’s Peace Libraries have become centers for literacy and learning and a home to programs that teach nonviolent conflict resolution.

 

On top of what is included in this GoFundMe, I have raised over $1300USD and received confirmation that the money has been received and was hugely appreciated. To those who already donated, thank you! It made a difference during a time when the funds were desperately needed.

 

I want to give one last push to raise some money. If you can contribute financially, any amount is appreciated. If you are not able to contribute financially, I appreciate your support all the same :) 100% of the money raised through this GoFundMe campaign will go directly to the work of The Children's Peace Libraries.

 

Children's Peace Libraries are a project of the Friends Peace Team s and Transformational Leadership Centre. The Facebook page for the TLC can be found HERE .

 

Thanks for your support!

 

Sincerely,

 

Jocelyne