Warm greetings

The word "influence" has been on my mind the past few days.  Influence as defined by Dictionary.com is the capacity or power of persons or things to be a compelling force on or produce effects on the actions, behavior, opinions, etc., of others.  Your support has definitely been of significant influence in ensuring that these children stay in school.  In these days of economic pressures, this means a whole lot to them.  It means much more than you would realize - and we deeply appreciate your investment.

The photo included in this report shows some children that are being supported by this and other GlobalGiving projects.  As you can see the kids are holding "Thank You" messages.  Our investment into the education of these children is helping to build them up and prepare them for their future as leaders of Sierra Leone and potentially the world.  By helping to ensure they are educated, we are helping to end poverty.   Education continues to be a sure path to empowerment - helping families to break from the cycle of poverty.  This is influence at its best - helping to transform the destiny of others. 

New scholarships were awarded in September and the children are all happily back in school.  They are making steady progress and we continue to encourage them to do well in school - a condition of on-going support.  The parents were reminded again to be very supportive and to spend time providing moral support and helping to coach with homework etc.

The lives of these children will never be the same again.  We are deeply grateful for your support that is helping to raise these future leaders. 

Thanks again and the best of wishes

Links:

• Africa Must Invest in Education to Overcome Poverty