Dare to Dream Project

Executive summary 

During the reporting period, the Dare to Dream Children Sponsorship Project continued to support vulnerable children across selected communities in The Gambia. The project focused on improving access to education, basic needs, and psychosocial well-being of sponsored children.

A total of five (5) children benefited from the program through school support, provision of learning materials, mentorship sessions, and community engagement activities. The project also strengthened relationships with caregivers, schools, and community leaders to ensure sustainable impact.

Project objectives 

The main objectives of the Dare to Dream Project include:

• To support vulnerable children to access quality education

• To improve the well-being and living conditions of sponsored children

• To empower children to build confidence and pursue their dreams

• To engage families and communities in child development and protection

Key Activities Implemented

3.1 Educational Support

• Payment of school fees for sponsored children

• Distribution of school supplies (bags, uniforms, books, etc.)

• Regular follow-up visits to schools to monitor attendance and performance

3.2 Mentorship and Life Skills Sessions

• Organized mentorship sessions focusing on self-confidence, goal setting, and leadership

• Conducted life skills training including hygiene, communication, and decision-making

3.3 Health and Well-being Support

• Supported basic healthcare needs of children

• Provided guidance on personal hygiene and nutrition

3.4 Family and Community Engagement

• Held meetings with parents to discuss children’s progress

• Engaged community leaders to support child protection and education

4. Achievements and Results

• Increased school attendance among sponsored children

• Improved academic performance in several cases

• Enhanced confidence and participation of children in school and community activities

• Strengthened collaboration with schools and families

5. Challenges Faced

• Financial constraints limiting the number of children supported

• Some children facing irregular attendance due to family responsibilities

• Limited access to healthcare services in some communities

6. Lessons Learned

• Continuous engagement with parents improves children’s school attendance

• Mentorship plays a key role in boosting children’s confidence and aspirations

• Community involvement is essential for project sustainability

7. Recommendations

• Increase funding to expand the number of beneficiaries

• Strengthen partnerships with schools and health facilities

• Introduce vocational and skill-building programs for older children

8. Conclusion

The Dare to Dream Children Sponsorship Project continues to make a positive impact in the lives of vulnerable children in The Gambia. Better Hands Association remains committed to supporting children to achieve their full potential through education, mentorship, and community support.

 Project Summary: Microfinance & Entrepreneurship Program for Young Girls Who Are Survivors of Human Trafficking

The Microfinance and Entrepreneurship Program supported 2 young female survivors of human trafficking. The project aimed to help survivors rebuild their lives through economic empowerment, skills training, and psychosocial support.

The program delivered business skills training, financial literacy workshops, and vocational skills development in areas such as poulty farming, hairdressing, baking, and soap making. A total of 2 micro-grants and 2 start-up kits were provided for poutry farming, enabling the girls to launch small businesses in their communities. The project also offered continuous mentorship, counselling, and peer-support groups to strengthen confidence, wellbeing, and reintegration.

By the end of the reporting period, participants were engaged in income-generating activities, establishing about 2 sustainable micro-businesses. Survivors reported increased financial independence, improved safety, and reduced vulnerability to re-trafficking. The program strengthened their self-esteem, decision-making skills, and social reintegration.

Key challenges included limited funding for start-up kits, high market prices, and the need for long-term psychological support. Nevertheless, the project achieved significant results, demonstrating that combining economic empowerment with counselling is highly effective for the recovery and resilience of trafficking survivors.

Overall, the program has restored dignity and hope for vulnerable young girls, giving them sustainable livelihood opportunities and a safer, more independent future.