Newsletter August 2012
School Health Clubs
As part of our ever-expanding school mobile clinics, we’ve established Health Clubs at several partner schools. These teacher- and student-run Health Clubs focus on disease prevention and health promotion through education and hands-on activities. Several Health Clubs have started vegetable gardens to supplement the usual school lunch of beans and corn. Other Health Clubs have received rabbits to breed and sell as an income-generating activity. These schools are also active in bringing clean, treated drinking water to the school and promoting hand washing after using the bathroom and before eating. The energy and enthusiasm of the Health Clubs is contagious and it’s exciting to watch youth engage in positive change for their community.
Microenterprise Loans
During the month of May 2012, Village HopeCore funded 83 new Micro Enterprises. Members came from different villages around Chogoria, 30% are male, 70% are female, and the average age is 43 years old. Each member from each group was given a loan of $400 to invest in an existing or new business. After a rigorous week of training focused on how to grow a small business, members created their own business plans for their enterprises. For many members, it was one of the first times they received concrete training on running a business. Many members when interviewed remarked on the importance of the business training and declared their commitment to incorporate these practices into their emerging microenterprise.
The majority of the loan clients invested in livestock, with 33 loan clients investing in dairy farming, 9 clients investing in chicken rearing and 7 clients investing in pig rearing. Others invested in agribusiness, specifically tea or coffee farming. Other businesses included food production, hairdressing, and reselling clothes or shoes. After funding, clients are hopeful of the effect the loan will have in their lives and are committed to maintaining sustainable businesses that will last for years to come.HopeCore in ActionThe mission of Hopecore is to empower the Chogoria community to live fulfilling and productive lives. Have you ever wondered what that looks like in action? This inspiring video gives a glimpse into the activities on the ground in Kenya. Enjoy!