Hello Partners in Hope,
As we enter this season of reflection and celebration, I wanted to share with you a quote (or in my case mantra) that has been particularly meaningful to me this year.Nelson Mandela is credited in saying, “it always seems impossible until it’s done.
These powerful words have been true to us throughout the past eleven years as we have collectively worked together to create a school from literal war-torn rubble to a community haven for over 1,200 students in Liberia. There were so many times that the impossibility, or even the ludicrousness of the attempt, were ever present. How would we ever have the funds to do it? How did we know the funds would continue? Were we in over our heads (yes!)? These questions can be paralyzing. The “impossibility” of it all loomed large.
This year though, this year things have been a bit different. With your partnership and our amazing staff in Liberia, so many seemingly impossible things have been made possible.
A few examples:
It once seemed impossible that our school campus would include a 3 story classroom that replaces the “death trap” building. Through the generosity of businesses and individuals, it now stands as a hope-building tribute to us all. It is almost done.
It once seemed impossible that we would have the additional funds needed to buy a school vehicle. We now own a large, 30-seat van, making seemingly impossible things possible for our students and staff. It is now done.
It once seemed impossible that we would have the funds to begin a vocational program, benefitting our students and community. Through a generous grant from Project Redwood of the Tides Foundation, Sew Much Hope is creating the possibility for training and small business opportunity. It is now done.
It seemed impossible that we would have funds to support our graduates in post-high school educational opportunities. Today 70 graduates are chasing their college dreams. It will never be fully done…but it is happening.
You have all been a part of making the seemingly impossible, possible. In a world that one can feel challenged to impact change, I hope you see how your generosity is lowering the roadblocks for so many who needed this impossibility to be transformed. You did this. We did this.
Would you consider contributing this season to all of the impossibilities we want to make possible in the coming year? Although being in the red is a festive holiday way to be…it is certainly not something we want for our bottom line. Year-end gifts ensure that we meet our budget and all the hope happenings continue to buzz right along. You make it ALL possible.
We are grateful for you this holiday season, and every other day as well.
With Holiday Gratitude,
Jackie Frazier
Executive Director
The Hope Project
