Support 125 Vulnerable Children in Zimbabwe

Dear Friends, 

The year is flying by and I'm excited to reach out and share all of the great things that are going on this year at Zara's Center. We continue to provide essential programs and services to vulnerable children and we have exciting plans for the future. I'm delighted to share some recent updates with all of you who make our work possible.

Our Expansion

• Zara's Center is expanding soon! We are in the final stages of planning for a new building that will allow us to serve more children and increase our agricultural sustainability. In April, we were honored to host two architects from Krueck Sexton Partners (KSP), a firm that is generously providing us with pro-bono design services.
• The children had a wonderful time with the KSP team, learning about the vision for the new facility, designing their own “dream” Zara’s Center using legos and art supplies, and participating in ice breaker games. KSP also visited with contractors and suppliers, met with our project manager, worked with our engineer, and visited local cultural sites. We're eager to break ground in the coming months and will share progress photos soon.

Computer Coding

• Our partnership with Uncommon coding continues to be a success. All of our kids have access to computer coding instruction and our alumni also have the opportunity to participate in Uncommon’s coding bootcamp. As of December 2022, two of Zara's alumni have graduated from the bootcamp and have already secured employment with local companies. 

Staff Retreat

• Zara's staff recently attended a retreat at a nearby campground and activity center to provide an opportunity for reflection and to bolster teamwork skills. The staff had a wonderful time learning from each other, setting goals for the coming year, and participating in team building activities. 

Donated Items

• We recently received a shipment of donated items from supporters in the USA. We are grateful to Lilla P. clothing company and Zara's Connection Club in NYC for the generous donation of t-shirts, winter clothing, shoes, books, school supplies, hygiene products, and more. Zara's staff is sorting through all of the items and is preparing personalized packages for every child.

I hope you enjoy the photos and updates below. We are endlessly grateful for the support of our donors around the world. We truly could not do it without you.

With gratitude, 

Jessica Briggs

US Program Director, Zara's Center

Links:

• Zara's Center Website
• Zara's Center - 2022 Annual Report
• PG Family Foundation Website