When Everyone Shines

Friends of Hope,

This past Saturday was a jubilant day at Hope International as the hard-working students of the Sew Much Hope and Cooking Up Hope vocational programs graduated. Liberia shared with us some of the beautiful photos from the ceremony.

As I looked through all the photos, the joy and pride are evident. The graduates are radiating with confidence and hope. One photo that caught my full attention of the students in our third vocational program, Power of Hope, an electrical technician program. They are pictured sitting together in the front row. 

I quickly messaged Kalou, a recent Hope International graduate and our school photographer, and asked “Why are the Power of Hope students there in uniforms? Their graduation is a way off.” 

Kalou messaged back right away, a little confused by the question and said (like it was obvious), “They are there to show their support.” 

Not only was this such a profound example of solidarity, but it also reminded me, once again of the stateside We in the #WeAreHope. We too are sitting in the rows in full support of the students in Liberia. Project Redwood of Tides Foundation, who entrusted us with three consecutive grants to date that launched the programs, are sitting cheering them on. You, who share your resources and time, are there too, beaming. 

We are currently halfway to of our year-end need of $20,000.  We could use some holiday love to ensure we finish 2022 with the funds needed. 

Can you join with us in generous support of these programs and all of the students and staff of Hope International.

Sometimes it’s about those who are shining. Sometimes it’s those who helped them get there. Sometimes it is about both. Together, #WeAreHope. 

Shining Together,
Jackie Frazier