Empowering Dreams, Building Futures

2.19.26

Virtuous Work for the People

The work of Kenyan volunteer organizations is titled Virtuous Work for the People, a name that reflects the spirit of Harambee. Harambee, the Swahili term meaning "all pull together," represents a Kenyan tradition of community self-help, unity and collective action.

In the past month, members of Shitungu have expanded their role in the village and in the wider community to embody the Harambee spirit. Working with other Community Based Organizations (CBO’s), a Valentine celebration was organized to honor local widows and widowers with a gift for each guest and a show of compassion. This joyful celebration of love for one’s neighbor included dancing and a soccer game featuring a team of spirited Grannies.

Partnerships with other CBO’s strengthen community and increase access to resources. Job training programs that lead to self-sufficiency are sponsored by CBO’s. The Virtuous Work benefits many.

The spirit of Harambee is as American as it is Kenyan. Community spirit is thriving in this country as in Kenya. People all over know the value of community action and the joy and comfort of being with others especially when sharing the same values and working towards the same goals.

Introducing Frederick Andala

Frederick Andala lives in Shitungu because he feels it is a safe environment and free of the pollution found in town. His days are filled with different jobs so that he can provide for his wife and three children. His work includes quarry mining (collecting rocks to be made into cement), small scale farming and participating in Shitungu soap production and sales. Frederick gets through the long days by practicing self-encouragement. He repeats positive messages to himself that fuel his hopes for a better future. He is grateful that the village provides opportunities for self sustainability and economic growth. He deeply values and is active in community life.

Frederick is thankful for the support from KVEO and looks forward to participating in more projects that will result in a secure and independent self sufficient community. He believes that a powerful way to improve life and increase the productivity of the village would be to purchase quarry mining equipment.

This month continue the spirit of Harambee with Valentines Day. Your generous donations honor community spirit and support the following priority goals identified by the villagers of Shitungu with KVEO’s support.

Education for Every Child

There is no free public education in Kenya. Tuition, books, uniforms, and school lunches must all be paid by families. With your help, every child in Shitungu — from kindergarten through high school — is able to remain in school. Education is the clearest path out of generational poverty, and your support keeps that door open.

Zero Hunger

Families are assured more than one meal a day thanks to the monthly funds that supplement the diet of each family. Here is a recent photo of many villagers standing next to the staples that they received. These provisions relieve the constant pressure of food insecurity and allow families to focus on building a more stable future. Your support fills real tables and strengthens real families.

Community-Led Economic Projects

Village-led initiatives now include soap production, environmentally friendly briquette-making using cow dung and ash, small-scale farming, and work in the local quarry. These efforts generate income, strengthen resilience, and build confidence in long-term self-sufficiency.

Your continued partnership with KVEO embodies the very heart of Harambee. When basic needs are stabilized, energy can turn toward growth. Together, we are not only addressing immediate needs — we are strengthening a community’s ability to thrive with dignity and hope.

Thank you,

Joyce

How You Can Help

Visit Our Website – Learn more about KVEO’s mission at shitungurises.org
Share the Link – Spread the word through social media (Facebook, Instagram, and Bluesky.
Donate – Every contribution makes a difference. Please consider contributing to help meet Shitungu’s immediate needs for food, education and work.