September 2023
Sponsorships Needed
This month, we welcomed three new sponsors to our family! So grateful for the support!! We are still searching for a sponsor match for four children in our program, however. Please see below for the list of children in need of sponsorship. We would sure love to chat with anyone who might be interested and want more information. Always just a message away.
The cost of sponsorship varies depending on which part of the program your child is in and which school they are enrolled in. As they get older it depends on whether they are still in high school, trade school or university. Sometimes we will split the sponsorship in half, so that can also be an option for the higher ones that haven’t already been divided. Here is the list of the students needing a sponsor, which program they are in and how much the sponsorship is in U.S. dollars.
- Jonah – PFP Juniors Program – $140/month
- Priscilla Mufumba – A Hand Up – $110/month
- Cheggem- Main Program- $65/month
- Arthur – A Hand Up – $60/month
If there is a student listed that you may be interested in helping with, we would love to hear from you.
Sponsorship covers:
- Boarding school
- Medical including mental health/dental
- Food
- Clothing
- Housing during breaks/holidays
- An amazing Ugandan support system (All PFP employees are Ugandan)
Sponsorship, along with our fundraisers, also contributes to:
- Field trips
- Cultural exposure
- Sports/exercise programs
- Skills training programs
- Transportation
- Social work services to support any available healthy family ties
Please contact us if you have any questions regarding this opportunity: hope@peaceforpaulfoundation.org
Facebook Birthday Fundraisers
A huge shoutout to everyone who has lovingly used their birthdays as an opportunity to make a positive impact through a Facebook fundraiser benefitting PFP. As we move into the last quarter of the year, we invite you to continue standing with us in our mission. Your continued support, whether through future fundraisers or by spreading the word about PFP make a significant difference in the lives of vulnerable children. Together, we can create a world where every child is cherished, nurtured and given the chance to reach their full potential.
Once again, thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your incredible generosity and for choosing to celebrate your special day by making a lasting impact. You are a shining example of the profound difference that one person can make in the world.
This month, in September, Madi and Makena (the daughters of PFP’s Founder and Executive Director) are hosting a Facebook fundraiser for their birthdays. Please consider donating!!
Makena and Madi in Uganda with their brothers Paul and Friday, circa 2019
A Visit from PFP’s Founder
In August, PFP’s founder was lucky enough to be able to make a visit to Uganda. It was a quick trip, but so much fun was had. She hosted a staff outing, an day out with her original crew (all now in University or trade schools), a “kindness day” focused on supporting the elderly in our community, a “kindness day” focused on helping children who live on the street and helped to welcome the newest addition (a baby girl) to the family of our Managers Olivia and Moses to the world! What a trip and what a holiday for the PFP crew!
PFP staff outing– first boat ride for many!
The original PFP children– all grown up, out with mom Heidi
Being “Wildly Kind”
This month, during Heidi’s visit, PFP partnered with a non profit organization, called “Wildly Kind” to host two “Kindness Days”. On day one, the team purchased soap, sugar, rice, fruit, and vegetables and packaged them all up together along with notes of encouragement and then hand delivered to the elders in our community who are most in need. We thought we would be bringing a smile to their faces.. but they were the ones who made us smile the most. These Jajas were awesome!! Day two involved preparing a warm meal, purchasing new shoes in the market and writing more notes of affirmations. All of this to prepare for the arrival of 28 children who currently live on the streets. Our newest PFP members (former street children themselves) lead the charge and were the ones to go into the streets to find the kids in need. We invited the group to our home for the day where we shared a meal, many smiles, and handed out new shoes. It was a day that many of us will never forget– and one we hope to recreate time and time again.
Writing our words of affirmation at Love Home
Our favorite Jaja with the biggest smile and the best laugh
Team visiting with a Jaja at her home
Hope Home kids with their notes of affirmation
Joseph, passing out gifts and letters to kids in need
Heidi and Friday with two of the children we invited for a hot meal
Kindness Day with Street Children
An elaboration by Hildah Mukyala (PFP Counselor)
The Peace for Paul foundation as one of its recent achievements succeeded in redefining the lives of four young boys formerly involved in street life where they could use drugs but are now performing very well in class, dressing up well and conforming to authority in the organization
On Sunday the 27th of August, during her visit to Uganda, Aunt Heidi and the 4 boys rescued from street life led the team to the give some hope to children still living on the street. The 4 boys gathered 28 of the former colleagues they left in the street life (surpassing 25- the targeted number) and each one of them was offered a delicious meal with a soda, sandals and a note with kindness and encouraging messages which was translated and explained to them by the elder children, the happiness and hope was all over their faces and words of appreciation to the organizing team for they seemed to have taken quite a good time without this kind of warm food!!
The entire exercise revealed some unique traits about the street children of Uganda such as the way they take their sodas by overturning the bottle, prick a whole at the bottom and suck like the method they use while inhaling jet fuel. The other amazing and most touching lesson was the fact that one of the smallest boys exhibited the virtue of kindness and patience when he voluntarily offered his meal to another person to wait for more that was ordered to suit the number of 28, this prompted more two to copy his example and wait on with him but it left most of us amused that though they are living a life of difficulties and aggressiveness there still lives children with kind hearts!!!
At the end of the day the boys and girls from the street left very happy and strong that good random things keep happening though unexpected and appreciated Aunt Heidi for all the kindness actions and arrangements.
Children waiting for their meal
PFP team and 28 children living on the streets
Welcome to the World Mirabelle!
This month, PFP’s management team (also a married couple) Olivia and Moses, welcomed another member to their sweet family. Heidi and Olivia and very close and so she flew out to be there for the birth. We have a healthy, happy and beautiful little girl! Welcome to the world and to the PFP family, baby girl!
Pre baby prep
Final day out before the baby- time to pamper mom a little!
Welcome Queen Mirabelle!!
Keeping in Touch
The love between children and sponsors continues to warm our hearts. Look at these smiling faces! Thanks to all of the sponsors who took the time to write letters this month. It means so much!
Sponsor Letter Packages- Will be Mailed Soon!
The students of PFP have been hard at work writing their sponsor letters. PFP’s Executive Director is transporting them home to the US, where she will work for the next few weeks packaging each letter up with a school report and new photos of each child. Sponsors– be on the lookout for your package!! Coming soon 🙂
Ochola, writing to his sponsor
David, writing his letter from school
Welcome to the Family, Suula!
Suula joined us this month as an emergency case brought to us by the police. We will not share the details here but his story is one of the most sad we have heard. Luckily enough, he found a sponsor within hours and is now settling in well at Love Home. Suula is being surrounded by the love and support from our staff and other PFP children and is making huge progress. Though 7 years old, he looks to be closer to 4 and cannot yet speak. He is slowly learning and after just a few weeks, can now speak a handful of words. He’s smiling and starting to learn to trust. We have high hopes for his future and are so grateful to his new sponsor!
Internships through Trade and University
Written by Tikol Joseph
Now that a large number of our students are in either University or Trade School, we are seeing so many students taking on internships through their programs. This month, Tikol (who is studying Petroleum Engineering at University) just finished a two and a half month long internship with the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development of Uganda. Congratulations Tikol on your completion!! Please see below for a description of Tikol’s internship, as written by Tikol:
“During my three month long holiday, we as second year students are obligated to do an external internship with any company in the oil and gas industry. I applied to a variety of companies and was lucky to be called by the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development of Uganda to do an internship with them. I was excited to experience and practically apply the school knowledge and exposed new ideas and methodologies in the field. I appreciated the petrophysics operations and calculations, and the geo static and dynamic modeling using PETREL SOFTWARE in reservoir stimulation. I was able to talk to different officials who guided me on how the industry operates and I made a number of friends (both professionals and fellow intern students. “
Tikol, learning how to cut a rock sample to a glass slide size
Tikol, analyzing rock samples in the lab
Home for the Holidays
The PFP children are just now wrapping up their holiday and preparing to head back to school. Most students were home for a three week break from their studies. They rested, played, took part in the various supplemental education programs (tailoring, knitting, cooking, gardening, etc) hosted by the staff at PFP and enjoyed time together with their families. Now looking forward to another good term at school!
Esau, Julius, Adam and friends working on their holiday tutoring packages at Love Home
Chipa, at Love Home
Luke, working on his sponsor letter
Languages in Uganda
Despite being a relatively small country (a little smaller than Oregon), Uganda is home to over 50 tribes. Fifty tribes with upwards of 70 languages being spoken throughout the country. Can you imagine!?! Interestingly, even though they are foreign, English and Swahili are the country’s official languages. However, Luganda is the country’s most spoken language.
In Uganda, it’s not surprising to find a person who can speak four or more languages and at least the basics of many more. All of the children in the PFP program can speak a minimum of Luganda and English. Of course many other languages can be spoken to varying degrees among the children, but Luganda and English are the ones all can use.
Celebrating Our Team: The “Staff Spotlight” Series
We recognize the immense contributions of our dedicated staff members in Uganda. Without their unwavering commitment and hard work, we would not be able to fulfill our mission of providing care and support to the children under our care. We are truly grateful for their invaluable role in keeping our organization running smoothly.
To showcase the incredible individuals behind the scenes, we are excited to introduce the “Staff Spotlight” series on our blog. Each month, we will shine a well-deserved spotlight on one staff member, offering you a glimpse into their important work and the impact they make on a daily basis. From our social workers and caregivers to our administrative staff and nurse, every team member plays a vital role in shaping the lives of our children. They provide love, guidance, and support, nurturing the physical, emotional, and educational well-being of each child in our care.
To our amazing staff members, we extend our heartfelt appreciation for everything you do. Your hard work, compassion, and dedication make a significant difference in the lives of the children and families we serve. Thank you for being the driving force behind our organization’s success.
Okunduyo Robert
Floating Security Guarding
I’m incredibly grateful to be a part of the Peace for Paul Foundation, dedicated to transforming the lives of children and the community. My name is Okunduyo Robert, 25 years old, and I serve as a security guard at Peace for Paul Foundation children’s homes. My journey here follows experiences gained at Sugar Corporation of Uganda Limited (SCOUL), but my passion for children led me to join Peace for Paul. It brings me joy to contribute significantly to improving children’s lives and fostering a nurturing environment.
During my tenure with the Peace for Paul Foundation, I’ve fulfilled various roles, including gatekeeping to ensure safety by monitoring visitors and possessions. I’ve maintained meticulous records of all incoming and outgoing items, enhancing security and keeping everyone informed. As part of dog handling, I’ve skillfully managed and cared for the dogs on the premises, ensuring their well-being and hygiene.
Engaging children in games, music, dance, and storytelling has been pivotal in creating a joyful and loving atmosphere that nurtures them emotionally. Witnessing the positive impact on their lives and contributing to their well-being fills me with profound satisfaction. I wholeheartedly appreciate the support from Peace for Paul’s management and my colleagues, which empowers me to love my work and continue making a difference.
Birthday Celebrations
Every month, we go the extra mile to ensure that each child in our program experiences a sense of joy and significance on their birthday. We believe that every child deserves to feel special on their special day. To make this happen, we have a series of celebrations planned throughout their birthday week, culminating in a grand celebration at the swimming pool during school holidays.
During their birthday week, each birthday child receives a thoughtful gift to commemorate their special day. Our team organizes small celebrations to make them feel cherished and loved. We also encourage sponsors to get involved by sending gifts to their sponsored child, adding an extra touch of excitement and joy to the celebrations.
At the Peace for Paul Foundation, we strive to make each child feel valued, celebrated, and loved on their birthday. It is our mission to create a sense of joy and happiness, and we are grateful to everyone who joins us in making these celebrations truly special.
Sarah with her treats
Mary Garrett with her treats
SP sharing his cake with the family
SP- happy to celebrate his special day
Happy Birthday to Our September Birthday Girls and Boys- we wish you all the best as we celebrate YOU this coming month!
If you are the sponsor of a birthday child this month, you are welcome to send us an email and we can work together to make your child’s day even more special!
PFP Junior Birthday Celebrants
PFP Main Program Birthday Celebrants
Empowering PFP’s Older Students: The AHU Program Encourages Students to Give Back
Each passing month brings with it a deeper sense of purpose and altruism for the AHU students. Rather than focusing on self-centered pursuits, these young men and women are learning to embrace a philosophy that centers around giving back and improving the lives of others.
Eager to make a difference, the AHU students proactively seek out fresh avenues to contribute positively to society. Each endeavor is an opportunity for them to lend a helping hand, extend kindness, and weave compassion into the fabric of the world around them. As they immerse themselves in the act of giving, the students find a unique sense of fulfillment that cannot be replicated elsewhere. Their experiences go beyond mere acts of charity; they become transformative life lessons that instill empathy, resilience, and humility.
This newfound lifestyle of giving back is empowering the PFP students to recognize the power of their gifts and talents. Each individual skill becomes a tool for good, a means to bring about positive change in the lives of others. Whether they possess artistic prowess, scientific acumen, or exceptional leadership skills, they channel these attributes to benefit those in need. Their journey is a testament to the profound influence that embracing a giving mindset can have on one’s life trajectory.
Michael, teaching at a local primary school
Allan, tutoring the kids at Love Home
Empowering Families Through the Juniors Program
We believe that education is a powerful catalyst for change and we understand the challenges faced by families in our community who struggle to provide their children with consistent access to education due to poverty. That’s why we are proud to introduce the Juniors Program—a collaborative effort between parents and PFP—to support these families in sending their children to school.
The Juniors Program is designed to work hand-in-hand with families, empowering parents to take an active role in their children’s education. While the children live full-time with their families, financial constraints have hindered regular school attendance. We firmly believe in fostering a sense of pride and ownership within parents by supplementing their contributions to ensure their children can attend school through their own hard work and dedication.
Through this program, we aim to break the cycle of poverty by providing educational opportunities for children aged four to 18 years. Currently, we have 94 students who are benefiting from this transformative partnership between parents and PFP.
By partnering with families, we not only address the immediate financial barriers to education but also foster a sense of community and shared responsibility. We recognize that parents are the primary caregivers and educators in their children’s lives. Therefore, we work closely with them to develop sustainable solutions, ensuring that education becomes a shared goal and a source of pride for the entire family.
The Juniors Program is a testament to the collaborative spirit and unwavering commitment of our community. We are inspired by the resilience and determination of the families we work with, and we are honored to be part of their journey towards a better future. Together, we can make a difference. Through this partnership between parents and PFP, we are building a stronger, more educated community—one child at a time.
Family Sponsorship Opportunities
We are always looking for general sponsors to help our family thrive. As a general family sponsor, your support extends to every child under our care. Your commitment enables us to provide essential resources and opportunities that contribute to their holistic development. Through your generosity, you become a vital part of our extended family, empowering each child to reach their full potential.
We offer various sponsorship opportunities that cater to specific needs within our family. You can choose to be a Medical Family Sponsor, ensuring that our children receive the necessary medical care and support they require. Alternatively, you can become a Dental Family Sponsor, helping to promote their dental health and well-being. We also have the option of being a Mental Health Family Sponsor, prioritizing the emotional and mental well-being of our children.
Your sponsorship commitment can be tailored to fit your capacity, with options of $25, $50, or $100 per month. No matter the amount, your contribution makes a lasting impact on the lives of these deserving children, enabling them to thrive and break the cycle of poverty.
By becoming a sponsor, you join a community of compassionate individuals who share a common goal—to uplift and empower vulnerable children.
Please contact us if you have any questions regarding this opportunity: hope@peaceforpaulfoundation.org
Join Our Team: Seeking Directors to Make a Meaningful Impact
At The Peace for Paul Foundation (PFP), we are dedicated to continuous improvement and finding ways to enhance our impact. As such, we are seeking to add new Directors to our board, and we believe that our team of incredible supporters is the perfect place to find these exceptional individuals.
We value diverse perspectives and expertise, and we are particularly interested in individuals with backgrounds in Microfinance, child development, or child psychology. As a Director, you will play a crucial role in shaping the strategic direction of our organization, ensuring that our programs and initiatives align with our mission and create a positive and lasting impact on the lives of the children we serve.
If you have a passion for our cause and would like to support the work of PFP in a more meaningful way, we would love to chat with you. We believe that the best candidates are often those who already understand and embrace our mission and values, and who have a deep commitment to making a difference in the lives of vulnerable children.
To explore this opportunity further, please reach out to us via the email provided below. We can have an initial conversation to discuss your interests, skills, and how they align with our organization’s needs. Together, we can determine if this role might be a good fit for you and if it offers the opportunity to make a significant and meaningful contribution.
Even if the Director position may not be the right fit for you at this time, we still encourage you to connect with us. We value every interaction and see it as an opportunity to build connections, exchange ideas, and collaborate in our mission to create a brighter future for the children we serve.
We look forward to hearing from you and embarking on this journey together. Let’s make a positive and lasting impact on the lives of these remarkable children.
Please contact us if you have any questions regarding this opportunity: hope@peaceforpaulfoundation.org
GuideStar Platinum Level Participant
The Peace for Paul Foundation has earned the Platinum GuideStar Nonprofit Profile participation level (the highest possible)! This leading symbol of nonprofit transparency and accountability is presented by GuideStar, the world’s largest source of nonprofit information.In order to be awarded the Platinum Seal of Transparency, The Peace for Paul Foundation included contact information, financial information, our goals, strategies, capabilities, indicators, and progress, helping us more effectively share our story with the world.Check out our GuideStar Nonprofit Profile and tell us what you think:The Peace for Paul Foundation GuideStar Profile
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