Blog
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A Note from the Agahozo-Shalom Executive Director
December 16, 2009
By: Tamar Copeland
Executive Director, Agahozo-ShalomFrom the moment you pass through the gates of Agahozo-Shalom, you can feel the sense possibility and purpose that emanates from this special place. The physical space is majestic and inspiring. Here in the Village, it is not hard to believe that if you see far, you will go far.
It’s a busy time –the kids are coming! And although they are not yet here, there are signs of them everywhere. From the Liquidnet Family High School to the basketball court to the kid’s homes named after their heroes such as George Washington Carver, Anne Frank, Benazir Bhutto and Socrates, we are constantly reminded of why we are here. Our activities are centered on preparing for their arrival, which grounds and focuses us all. In another setting, our trainings might look like typical orientation and team building exercises, but at Agahozo-Shalom, we are doing much, much more. We are busy with the shared goal of creating a home where our children can be whole and aspire to their personal dreams. We are building family.
I am both moved and inspired by the commitment of new and returning staff and our volunteers who have selflessly chosen to dedicate their hearts and their lives to our kids. I hope that you will have the opportunity to visit Agahozo-Shalom to understand the extraordinary potential of this model. Your life will be forever changed.
(left) Elton Hassal, (center) Tamar Copeland, (right) Alain Munyaburanga, ASYV Associate Director