EDUCATING OUR BOYS

First and foremost, our focus is on our 12 boys. We want to ensure that they receive the quality educations they deserve, and believe these boys represent the future of this impoverished country. One of our boys, Uledi, is already exceling in university, and we expect many more of our academically-inclined students will seek further education.

As we near the close of the 2011 school year, we are proud to have 6 of our boys attending private schools in Mzuzu—David, Raphael, Harrison, Benson, Eston and Happy. We are also thrilled to announce that Hamilton and Humphrey have been attending boarding school in Lilongwe. Our boys are achieving top grades and are so thankful for the support they've received over the years.

KANDE BEACH PROGRAMS

LUNCH PROGRAM

Designed to provide healthy meals for children from the 6 surrounding villages, the daily lunch at the orphanage lasts about 2 hours including activities conducted in English and the local language. Participants were found by WAO staff members who approached village chiefs to determine the neediest children. Lunch starts at noon after the government school lets out for the day. The program also provides work for local women, who are hired to make the meals. Attendance is around 60-70 each day.

SENIOR CONNECTIONS

Participants were identified by staff members who approached the chiefs of the 6 surrounding villages determine the neediest elders. In addition to lunch, WAO teaches healthy lifestyles through varied activities. Average attendance is 20 seniors each week.

EDUCATION SCHOLARSHIP FUND

Introduced January 2007 after the resounding success of the very first WAO fundraiser, this scholarship fund provides assistance to additional students who can no longer afford school fees. Each of our current participants were forced to drop out of school because of lack of funds, and have been given a second chance. Our current five sophomores/juniors—including three girls—started receiving scholarships in 2010 and will be supported through graduation. We carefully monitor student progress and help them form study groups.