Give Childhood a Chance and Keep Youth Drug Free!

For almost 20 years, our partnership with Blue Cross Chad has delivered life-changing – and often life-saving – results. An external evaluation in 2024 confirmed it: participants showed measurable progress in interpersonal skills, conflict resolution, decision-making, and attitudes toward gender equality.

It’s a privilege to witness the transformative journey of Blue Cross Chad, where lives are being changed every day. Raoul’s powerful story is a testament to that:

“My name is Raoul, and I am 25 years old. I was born into a farming family in a southern province. My father was poor and sent me to the city to study, but I faced family difficulties during secondary school and decided to leave home. I moved in with a friend, but I didn’t want to be a burden, so I started my own small businesses, running telephone kiosks and small shops, to support myself and continue my studies. Life wasn’t easy, and I went through dark moments, even considering taking my own life. But I pulled myself together and, at 19, started working as a motorbike taxi driver to earn money.

I had already been involved with the Blue Cross, and I kept coming back to their activities. I became a peer educator and club leader, and over time, the other young people in the club became my family. Through the Blue Cross, I learned to set goals, make responsible choices, and avoid falling into the same traps as others. My mentor at Blue Cross, Pascal, was a constant support – he visited me, advised me, and encouraged me to stay on the right path. His words always stayed with me: “One day, you might be doing the same work as me.” Today, that has come true. I have been recruited as LS facilitator, just like he once was.

One of the most important changes in my life has been becoming a father. Many young men in my situation, when they find out they are going to be fathers, choose to run away or pressure the mother into an abortion. But for me, that was never an option. I accepted my responsibility, and I am fully involved in raising my son. Every morning, I take him to school before starting my day, and I feel pride and joy knowing that I am providing for him. I am committed to giving him the childhood I never had, making sure he never feels the instability and struggles that I went through. I don’t want my son to grow up with those same feelings of lack and uncertainty. Instead, I guide him, teach him, and provide for him in ways my own parents never could.

Even if my contract with the Blue Cross ends (because of the phasing out), I will always remain connected because this organization gave me the support, purpose, and identity that shaped my life. Now, as both a father and a mentor, I am committed to being a role model for my son and for other young people in my community.”

 Thank you so much for your support – it’s what makes this work possible and helps transform the lives of Raoul and so many others!