In March of 2008, team Juxtaposie traveled to Uganda to see how we could make a measureable impact in the lives of the boys and girls at Restore Leadership Academy in Gulu. We were fortunate enough to meet with Government officials, tribal leaders and the students themselves. The opportunity gave us a rare look at their lives, culture and the trials they face.
Each student at the academy has an amazing story of triumph over tragedy. They are there with grateful hearts and eager to learn the skills necessary to become viable leaders in their war-torn country. They represent different tribes, regions and backgrounds, but are united by a purpose: to keep the calamity of their country’s history and their individual pasts from stealing their rightful places as future leaders.
We created Purse of Hope with the express desire to help children actualize their dreams. Their visions for the future are as unique as their backgrounds and personalities. When I asked a group of the girls what vocations they hoped to pursue, their faces lit up. One young woman wanted to be a judge; another, a doctor and another, a police woman. When I asked why, their objective was clear: to fight for justice and help those in need. When inquiring further, I noticed an overriding theme in each answer. They were all others-focused. There was no mention of money or what their respective careers could do for them, but instead, they started talking fast and excitedly when describing how they could affect change in their communities.
We went to the academy to be an encouragement and to affirm the students’ hopes and dreams. The inspiration they gave us was far greater. From across the globe we all shared something in common: a burden to reach out to those that are struggling and to use our gifts and experiences to challenge others to do the same.
Purse of Hope exists to not only help support these students, but the future students of Restore Academy and educational programs like it. These amazing kids have been rescued from deplorable conditions and circumstances. They are all over-comers. Help us give more children the same chance. Together we can make a difference.
Sincerely,
Kristen Hendricks
Founder
