UNITED WAY GHANA 2023 SECOND HALF NEWSLETTER
Table of Contents:
- United Way Ghana Marks 20 Years Of Empowering Communities: Celebrating Unity, Impact, And Sustainable Change
- One Young World Conference: Nurturing Future Change Makers
- Ghana Association Of Bank And United Way Ghana Provide Huge Relief To Akosombo Dam Spillage Disaster Victims
- Total Energies Plc And United Way Ghana Embark On Community Tree Planting Exercise
- Totalenergies Plc, United Way Ghana Clean Eyipe Beach In Winneba
- Launch Of Literacy And Mentorship Program With Prudential Life Insurance Ghana
- United Way Ghana Launches Digital Learning With Roducate
- Commissioning Of The Stem Space At Parkoso R/C JHS
- United Way Ghana And Vivo Energy Environmental Club Young Learners Exhibition
- United Way Ghana Supports Eighty-Nine (89) Underserved Learners With Scholarship Packages
- United Way Ghana & International Justice Mission Ghana Collaborate To Combat Human Trafficking
- United Way Ghana Empowers Over 30 Women In Parkoso For Sustainable Livelihood
UNITED WAY GHANA MARKS 20 YEARS OF EMPOWERING COMMUNITIES: CELEBRATING UNITY, IMPACT, AND SUSTAINABLE CHANGE
On November 2, 2023, United Way Ghana celebrated its 20th Anniversary and Community Builders Award, marking two decades of dedicated community upliftment in Ghana. Themed "20 Years of Empowering Communities: Celebrating Unity, Impact, and Sustainable Change," the event highlighted United Way Ghana’s commitment to positive change through collective action and community engagement.
Commencing our journey with a vision for impactful change, United Way Ghana has championed initiatives in education, health, economic empowerment, and community development. The anniversary showcased United Way Ghana’s achievements, recognizing corporate partners, volunteers, and communities pivotal to United Way Ghana's success.
Ms Angela Williams, the President of United Way who graced the event as the Keynote speaker, reiterated her appreciation to the corporate organizations, volunteers, and community partners who have collaborated with United Way Ghana to create opportunities for individuals to improve the quality of their lives. Also at the event were The Governing Council Presdient for United Way Ghana, Ms Adiki Ayitevie, Ms Yolanda Hegngi, Senior Vice President of the International Network (United Way Worldwide), and Ms Tejumola.Abisoye Vice President United Way Worldwide, Africa Region.
The event featured touching stories of transformation, illustrating the tangible impact on communities. Recognizing the contributions of GC members, volunteers, and outstanding individuals with the Community Builders Award was a highlight. These awardees were praised for their dedication and innovative solutions contributing to sustainable change.
The celebration inspired continued commitment to community development, emphasizing collaboration, unity, and sustainable strategies. Looking ahead, we remain dedicated to innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability, poised to make a profound impact on the communities we serve.
As the evening concluded with gratitude, United Way Ghana reaffirmed its commitment to unity, impactful change, and sustainable progress, ushering in another chapter of hope and empowerment.
ONE YOUNG WORLD CONFERENCE: NURTURING FUTURE CHANGE MAKERS
The 2023 One Young World Summit (OYW), hosted in Belfast, Northern Ireland, gathered more than 2,000 young leaders from 180 countries, all driven by a shared mission: to forge an equitable and sustainable future for all. Among these attendees were five remarkable delegates representing United Way, each boasting a distinctive background and an unwavering dedication to their communities. OYW acted as a catalyst for transformation, empowering young leaders like the United Way representatives to take audacious strides toward positive change.
Soliciting nominations from across our global Network, United Way Worldwide selected five outstanding United Way leaders to represent the organization. United Way Ghana’s Grace Braimah; Southern Sector Community Coordinator was selected. Each delegate demonstrates the breadth of leadership strength within the global Network, especially among young leaders.
After the conference, each delegate reflected on the profound impact of the experience on their lives and deliberated on their plans to apply the lessons they had garnered. While each delegate had their unique perspective, a common thread resonated deeply with all of them—the extraordinary experience of connecting with peers from around the world.Grace Braimah plans to confront a more specific challenge. “Here at United Way Ghana and in Africa, we address education, health, financial stability, and more. However, through One Young World, I came to realize that mental health is a topic we are not discussing enough. We should be strong advocates for mental health here in Ghana and across Africa. We need to provide the necessary support to those who require it. Thus, I'm fully prepared to advocate for the inclusion of more mental health advocacy staff in our projects. That's an endeavor I'll be undertaking.”
GHANA ASSOCIATION OF BANK AND UNITED WAY GHANA PROVIDE HUGE RELIEF TO AKOSOMBO DAM SPILLAGE DISASTER VICTIMS
TOTAL ENERGIES PLC AND UNITED WAY GHANA EMBARK ON COMMUNITY TREE PLANTING EXERCISE
TotalEnergies Marketing Ghana partnered United Way Ghana to undertake a community tree-planting exercise in Kwamoso in the Eastern Region of Ghana.
This follows a shared commitment by the two organizations to improve the lives of individuals and communities, and also to promote a sustainable environment. The initiative was in collaboration with the Eastern Regional Forestry Commission of Ghana, the Chief of Kwamoso, notable farmers and the community members and also forms part of United Way Ghana’s Economic Empowerment Program, which seeks to provide opportunities for financial and economic stability for persons living in underserved communities in Ghana. Over 500 fruit seedlings – pear, coconut and citrus fruits – were planted on four acres of farmlands in Kwamoso and its environs.
With a partnership of over three years, TotalEnergies Marketing Ghana PLC as part of its TotalEnergies ACTION! Program has supported the government’s efforts to promote a Green Ghana through tree-planting and have, so far, undertaken the exercise in 10 schools in Kumasi and eight in Accra in collaboration with United Way Ghana.
The chief of Kwamoso, Nana Nkosuohene Fianko-Bekoe, said: “We express our sincere gratitude to TotalEnergies Marking Ghana PLC, United Way Ghana and the Forestry Commission for this initiative to execute such an important activity in the community with the aim of protecting the environment and raising the standard of the economy in our community through this tree-planting exercise”.
About 80 employees from TotalEnergies Marketing Ghana participated in the tree-planting exercise and donated farm tools – 36 cutlasses, 36 watering cans, 12 shovels, and 36 hand trowels to the farmers to enhance farming and productivity in the Kwamoso community.
TOTALENERGIES PLC, UNITED WAY GHANA CLEAN EYIPE BEACH IN WINNEBA
TotalEnergies Marketing Ghana PLC in partnership with United Way Ghana and Ecozoil Limited, a leading waste management service in Ghana joined efforts on Friday, September 15, 2023, to undertake a beach clean-up and sensitization exercise at Eyipe Beach in Winneba to mark International Coastal Clean- up Day.
This project aimed to create public awareness of the importance of beach conservation, plastic pollution, and its impact on marine life. The exercise also sought to inculcate a culture of beach cleaning in the residents to ensure a sustainable environment.
This initiative forms part of TotalEnergies Marketing Ghana Plc and United Way Ghana’s efforts to promote United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 6 – Clean Water and Sanitation, SDG – 11, Sustainable Cities and Communities, SDG 13 – Climate Action, SDG 14 – Life Below Water, and SDG 17 – Partnership For The Goals.
About 120 employees from TotalEnergies Marketing Ghana Plc, joined over 80 community members and 8 sanitation officers from the Efutu-West Municipal Assembly to clean a 3 km stretch of beach at Eyipe, Winneba and also educated over 100 community members, including market women and fisherfolk on the relevance of preserving our beaches and our environment.
After the clean-up exercise, about 11 tonnes of waste was gathered from the beach. The community also received a donation of ten (10) 240 liter bins from TotalEnergies Marketing Ghana Plc, to ensure proper waste disposal at and around the beach.
We are very grateful to United Way Ghana and TotalEnergies Marketing Ghana, Plc for collaborating to clean our beaches''. He also added that the community was committed to cleaning their beaches, following the education that they had received on the importance of promoting sustainable beaches and the environment. The Assemblyman for Eyipe Electoral Area, Hon. Kofi Kum,
LAUNCH OF LITERACY AND MENTORSHIP PROGRAM WITH PRUDENTIAL LIFE INSURANCE GHANA
United Way Ghana and Prudential Life share a commitment to ensuring that every child's fundamental right to education is upheld. During the COVID-19 pandemic, United Way Ghana and Prudential Life Insurance joined forces to support learners in disadvantaged areas who lacked access to online tuition or the internet. They initiated a Home Literacy program aimed at improving academic outcomes for these students.
Continuing the collaboration, Prudential Life Insurance partnered again with United Way Ghana to implement another educational program. This included an in-school Literacy program, a Saturday Reading Program known as the "Reading Oasis," as well as intensified coaching and mentoring activities for junior high school students in underprivileged areas such as Ayeduase in the Ashanti Region, Pig Farm in Greater Accra, and New Takoradi in the Western Region.
To ensure the success of this initiative, reading spaces were established at each location. These spaces were equipped with age-appropriate books, literacy games, and other materials to engage learners and foster a study-conducive environment. These spaces were officially inaugurated during the project's launch events.
The project's inaugural launch took place at Pig Farm Basic School in Accra on October 9, 2023. The event was attended by notable figures including Dr Hazel (CEO of Prudential Life Insurance Ghana), Mr Felix Kissiedu-Addi (Former Executive Director of United Way Ghana), Mr Adam Burge (Chief Finance Officer at Prudential Life Insurance), the Ayawaso North Educational Director, representatives from Prudential Life Insurance Ghana, United Way Ghana, Pig Farm Basic School, and the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA). Subsequent mini-launches were held at Ayeduase RC School in Kumasi on October 14, 2023, and the final launch occurred on October 23, 2023, at the Methodist School Park in New Takoradi.
UNITED WAY GHANA LAUNCHES DIGITAL LEARNING WITH RODUCATE
In this era of rapid digital progression, staying up-to-date with technology is no longer a choice but a necessity. Education, in particular, is witnessing a transformational phase with innovative teaching and learning trends making learning more accessible. United Way Ghana acknowledges this shift and has forged a strategic partnership with Roducate, an educational technology platform known for its diverse range of resources and tools that cater to enriching teaching methods and fostering better understanding among learners.
This collaboration is set to unfold gradually, starting with a pilot program aimed at assisting 20 students facing academic challenges within the Aplaku Cluster of schools in the Greater Accra region. The primary goal is to utilize Roducate's platform to enhance these students' academic performance and provide them with a more comprehensive learning experience.
The program was officially inaugurated on 30th November 2023, graced by representatives from the Ghana Education Service (GES), team members from United Way Ghana and Roducate, and the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA). During the launch, the Deputy Municipal Director for Education expressed gratitude and emphasized the potential of this program to positively impact the educational landscape within the municipality.
COMMISSIONING OF THE STEM SPACE AT PARKOSO R/C JHS
In today's rapidly evolving world, the fusion of science and technology plays a pivotal role, yet there remains a gap in widespread understanding. Science transcends borders and belongs to all of humanity, illuminating our path. United Way Ghana, recognizing the transformative power of education, has embarked on a journey contributing to revolutionising learning experiences across Ghana, particularly through practical STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) engagement.
In the Asokore Mampong Municipal District, the Parkoso R/C faced a challenge: a lack of laboratory facilities, hindering students from applying their theoretical knowledge in practical settings. United Way Ghana took action, refurbishing a classroom and establishing a STEM space designed to accommodate up to 32 young learners per session. This space is equipped to cover comprehensive aspects of STEM disciplines.
On October 12th, 2023, the STEM space was commissioned at the Parkoso R/C school. The event was graced by the Municipal Education Director and Deputy Director, the Municipal STEM Coordinator, United Way Ghana team members, staff of Parkoso R/C school and members of the Parent-Teacher Association the Municipal Education Director expressed heartfelt gratitude for United Way Ghana's commendable contributions to the municipality. Notably, the Director highlighted the significance of this initiative, being the first of its kind in the area, foreseeing its substantial impact on neighbouring schools within the district.
United Way Ghana envisions this initiative as a solution to address the academic challenges faced by learners in the municipality. Moreover, the initiative aims to instill a deep-rooted interest in STEM subjects among students, paving their path toward higher education opportunities and prospective careers in alignment with the global advancements in science and technology.
UNITED WAY GHANA AND VIVO ENERGY ENVIRONMENTAL CLUB YOUNG LEARNERS EXHIBITION
A year ago, United Way Ghana joined hands with Vivo Energy to establish an environmental club at La Enobal School, under the La Dadekotopon Municipal Education Directorate. This collaborative effort aimed to educate learners on critical topics such as sanitation, recycling, and upcycling, addressing the pressing need to manage waste effectively in La and its surrounding areas.
Throughout the year, dedicated teacher facilitators led engaging sessions, involving learners in practical activities aligned with the project's objectives. To assess the project's impact, learners worked on group projects focused on recycling and upcycling initiatives. During the closing event, the projects were showcased, revealing the effort and creativity students put into addressing waste issues, particularly plastic waste. Their finished projects included recycling car tyres into tables, transforming plastic gallons into flower pots, coconut residues into cups, bottle tops into baskets art frames, etc.
The event was graced by Ms Shirley Kum from Vivo Energy, Ms Faustina Abbey, the Executive Director of United Way Ghana, the Municipal Education Director, United Way Ghana's team members, La Enobal School teachers, and the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA). During the event, Ms Shirley Kum expressed her gratitude for how the school and learners embraced the project and also the project contributing to Vivo's sustainability project in Africa and worldwide.
UNITED WAY GHANA SUPPORTS EIGHTY-NINE (89) UNDERSERVED LEARNERS WITH SCHOLARSHIP PACKAGES
United Way Ghana, with the Reidman Family's grant support since 2005, has been assisting underserved communities in the Akuapem North municipal district. The initiative focuses on providing educational support through a scholarship program. The aim is to ensure that young learners in these communities have fair access to education, enhancing their skills and promoting better academic performance and lifelong learning.his initiative has significantly impacted over 1,343 students across six schools and has also involved 650 parents. In addition, it has established guidance and counselling committees in these schools.
The 2023 edition of this programme was held on October 6, 2023, at Akropong Methodist Church, benefitting 89 underprivileged young learners from six (6) different schools from Primary (1 - 6) to Junior High School (1 - 2). The program provided essential school supplies such as bags, uniforms, shoes, stationery, storybooks, etc to ensure these students had the necessary tools for a productive academic year.
The schools benefiting from this project include Akropong MA Basic School, Methodist Basic School, Salem Presbyterian Basic School, St. Joseph Anglican School, Abiriw SDA Basic School, and Okuapeman Basic School.
Furthermore, 30 teachers received training in leadership, soft skills, and effective classroom management. Schools were equipped with necessary teaching and learning materials. Moreover, 100 parents and caregivers underwent sensitization programs focusing on financial literacy, home management, and effective parenting.
This year, in addition to the scholarship packages, United Way Ghana observed the International Day of the Girl Child by organizing a program for 200 girls from beneficiary schools. This event aimed to enhance the girls' digital literacy skills and educate them on responsible social media use. Additionally, each school received supplies of sanitary pads, supporting nearly 1,800 girls during their menstrual cycles. Throughout the academic year 2023/24, United Way Ghana plans to conduct sessions educating these girls on menstrual hygiene and empowering activities suited to their needs. This initiative forms a crucial part of United Way Ghana's Girls Closet project, aimed at empowering adolescent girls by addressing menstruation stigma, providing tools for managing menstrual health, and boosting their confidence.
During the scholarship items' handover, Mr. Felix Kisssiedu-Addi, the immediate past Executive Director at United Way Ghana, emphasized the significant need for these resources among many students and urged recipients to use them purposefully. Madam Gifty Eshun, the Girl Child Coordinator at the Ghana Education Service, Akuapem North Municipality, received the items on behalf of the beneficiary schools, expressing gratitude to United Way Ghana for their kindness.
Mr Daniel Okyere, a pupil teacher at the Methodist Basic School, also conveyed appreciation to United Way Ghana, highlighting how these educational materials would enhance learning and improve class attendance in their school.
UNITED WAY GHANA & INTERNATIONAL JUSTICE MISSION GHANA COLLABORATE TO COMBAT HUMAN TRAFFICKING
The launch of the Ghana Survivor Network on February 23, 2023, marked a pivotal moment. This initiative aimed to extend educational and economic support to survivors of human trafficking, empowering them to combat this heinous crime within Ghana. Under the theme "Ending Human Trafficking, Survivors Leading The Movement," this network also serves as an advocacy platform, targeting underprivileged communities to fight against child trafficking.
The survivor network provides a platform for survivors to come together and share their stories and also encourage one another. It is also a strong force for advocating for change. The Courageous Crew is the survivor network, a group of individuals who have survived violence or abuse.
The Survivor Network formed in Senya Beraku, is dedicated to addressing and ultimately eradicating the deeply entrenched issue of child trafficking within the community. With a primary goal of ending this harrowing practice, the network has become a beacon of hope for countless vulnerable children and families in Senya Beraku.
Child trafficking stands as one of the most alarming and prevalent social issues faced by the Senya Beraku. The vulnerability of children, coupled with poverty, lack of education, and limited opportunities, makes them easy targets for traffickers who exploit their innocence and desperation.
The Survivor Network's formation marks the start of a turning point in Senya Beraku's battle against child trafficking. Comprising survivors of trafficking, their strategy is to engage in advocacy activities such as visiting religious organizations, market places, schools and community information centers to speak about the negative impact child trafficking has had on the development of Senya Beraku.
With support from IJM Ghana, survivors under the Network have been provided with counseling, psychological support, and reintegration assistance, helping them rebuild their lives and regain a sense of agency. By showcasing success stories of survivors who have overcome their traumatic experiences, the Survivor Network aims to inspire others and demonstrate that a way out is possible.
The Survivor Network also understands that tackling child trafficking requires collaborative efforts. They have forged partnerships with the police service, community leaders and also the community child protection committee international organizations to amplify their impact.
Through these initiatives, the Survivor Network is making significant strides toward its goal of ending child trafficking in Senya Beraku. Through a complementary initiative under the project, United Way Ghana has empowered 40 survivors by enrolling in the program with economic self-sufficiency and an out of school reading program. By offering economic empowerment opportunities, such as skills training, job placements, and entrepreneurship support, We have equipped survivors with the tools and resources they need to achieve financial independence. This integrated approach not only aids in their recovery and reintegration but also contributes to breaking the cycle of vulnerability and exploitation. By fostering economic empowerment alongside other support measures, United Way Ghana enhances the overall effectiveness of its anti-child trafficking project, creating a more comprehensive and lasting impact. A noteworthy accomplishment under the out of school reading program, where 171 schoolchildren are presently participating in the out-of-school reading program. This initiative holds particular significance as over 40 of these children have emerged as survivors of child trafficking. The program's reach is expansive, allowing us to extend educational benefits to a diverse range of vulnerable children while directly addressing the aftereffects of child trafficking. Moreover, 20 survivors have been equipped with educational resources, which they have enthusiastically embraced within the reading program.
UNITED WAY GHANA EMPOWERS OVER 30 WOMEN IN PARKOSO FOR SUSTAINABLE LIVELIHOODS
In an effort to support parents and caregivers of students benefiting from United Way Ghana's Education Program in Parkoso, 33 women have been enrolled in a Socio-Economic Empowerment initiative. These individuals faced challenges in sustaining their children's education due to income instability.
Poverty, unemployment, and underemployment continue to affect communities across Ghana. To tackle these issues, United Way Ghana collaborates with partners to generate income opportunities for underserved populations through short and long-term solutions.
With the support of the Larry Macdonald Family Grant and in partnership with Engage Now Africa, a Socio-Economic Empowerment Project was launched in Parkoso, located in the Asokore Mampong Municipal of the Ashanti Region. Recent surveys in the region revealed a staggering 70% underemployment rate, leading to increased rural-urban migration.
This initiative equipped beneficiaries with financial literacy, entrepreneurship training, vocational skills, and access to a fully furnished business training center. Aligned with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals 1, 8, 11, and 17, this program aims to combat poverty, promote decent work and economic growth, foster sustainable communities, and encourage partnerships for collective goals.
To ensure the project's longevity beyond United Way Ghana's direct involvement, a Community Committee, comprising influential leaders and stakeholders known for their community contributions, has been established. This committee will oversee project management.
The culmination of this effort will be marked on January 19, 2024, with the graduation of program beneficiaries and the official handover of the Business Training Center to the community. This center is fully equipped with tools and resources necessary for beneficiaries to initiate and manage their businesses.
“Thank you United Way Ghana for this opportunity. Becoming part of this project has been a major help to me. Now I have a skill that can help me cater for my four children who are in school. Before this project I was just home, depending on the little my husband will give which was not enough but since I started baking I can make enough income to cater for myself and support my husband to cater for the family. Thank you United Way Gha. This training has been a great blessing to me”- Eva Yintamba
