For the last 3 years, Douglas has worked hard to put himself through 3 years of Secondary School (H.S.) by doing small contracting jobs to pay school tuition and fees. One of 12 children, Douglas wanted a better life for himself and his family. There was no money for school, so he worked every spare minute to put himself through school. Now, in his last year, there aren't enough contracting jobs, not enough money to finish...he needs help paying tuition and fees. It's his last year.
Education is key to breaking the cycle of poverty. With less than 50% of students continuing education after grade 8 due to their poverty, that cycle continues generation after generation. Douglas wants a better life for himself and his family. He knows education is key and he has worked tirelessly to get himself through school...quite a fete considering spending an average of 11 hours a day, 6 days a week in classes AND working small jobs in between just so he can get an education.
After three years of earning his way through school, Douglas has hit a roadblock. There isn't enough small contracting jobs for him, so there isn't enough money to finish his final year of Secondary School (H.S.). A successful project will allow Douglas to continue in school in his final year as he prepares to take the national exams. It also will put him one step closer to his desire to become an auditor in an organization such as Olalo of Hope-Kenya.
Without an opportunity to complete a student's education, the cycle of poverty continues for generations. Today's students want to improve their lives. They are motivated to make changes that impact their own futures and improve the community. For too long education beyond grade 8 wasn't even expected. For the most part, it's the same today, so when a child gets the opportunity to continue their education, they begin to dream big, work hard and begin a new cycle. A Cycle of Hope!