By Karen Sugar | Executive Director
"Microcredit alone, without social development programming, is limited in its ability to alleviate poverty. Poverty is a multifaceted issue and must be addressed within this context. Microfinance is not a panacea but a powerful tool that when bundled with social programming, can give women and their families increased control over their lives". - K Sugar
This is the philosophy of WGEF, and the basis of the Credit Plus model. Since the beginning, 2008, we have offered a literacy training program. To date we have had over 650 participate, and with the new year beginning in February, that number will increase to over 750! While we would like to expand the program, funding continues to be an issue, prohibiting us increasing capacity this year.
This program plays an intergral role for women recovering and rebuilding their lives in a post conflict region. Our clients are formerly abducted persons, child soldiers, sex slaves, and IDP's; they missed out on the opportunity to receive even a basic education and desire to learn. Understanding that literacy will help them in all aspects of their lives, business, personal, enabling women to communicate with their community leaders, people in authority, customers etc.
It also creates a powerful feeling of accomplishment, self esteem, and confidence. Thru this empowering program, we have had several women go on to run for public office, become advocates and leaders in their communities. Our goal is to provide meaninful and relevant programming, enabling women to be a force for rebuilding their lives and communities.
Our literacy program this year has 59 participants at the basic level, and 45 at level two instruction. This is the second year we have been able to offer two levels, and are hoping to include 50 additional women over the next few months. The trainings are twice weekly at several community centers, making it easier for women to attend. We also provide a meal, beverages, and child care for one child on Saturdays.
We hope you are inspired and continue to support this critical program, creating a brighter, more secure future for women and families.
Peace,
karen
By Karen Sugar and Bukenya Muusa | Directors
By Karen Sugar | Executive Director and WGEF client
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