Thursday, March 26, 2015

Ethiopia- Welcome Home!


During our last expedition, we came across an elderly man who was very ill, almost completely blind and lived in an old hut that was in desperate need of repair. 

In the 14 years Diana Bingham, ENA's East Africa Director, has been traveling to Ethiopia she had never seen a hut this dilapidated. There were gaping holes in the roof. The hut's structure was leaning to one side and was being propped up by wood sticks. Inside, the hut had a dirt floor with no stove, bed, furniture or blankets. The old man was sleeping on the hard, dirt floor while being exposed to rain, wind, bugs and wildlife. 

Diana knew she had to do something. At first, she considered repairing or rebuilding the hut. But, they didn't feel right leaving this sickly, elderly man living and sleeping in a hut. So, with a little more money they were able to do better. ENA built him a block house complete with a front door and windows. Not only will this comfortable, new home keep him safe from the elements, it will also allow him to live a healthier and more sanitary life. The conditions were so much better, that his daughter is now able to live with him and care for her father.  

Diana, along with ENA staff members and friends, also provided him with blankets, furniture, cooking supplies and an opportunity to live in comfort. 

To donate to ENA and help provide a better life for those who need it most, visit us here!

Sunday, March 15, 2015

Ethiopia- Rated Number ONE in the areas where we work!


We are proud to announce that Engage Now Africa has been rated the number one NGO in the large areas where we work. This is a testament to the wonderful work we have been able to perform and the amazing staff that help us make it happen!

The first award is from the Adea Woreda Education Office. We were rated number one in our support of quality education through new school construction for rural communities, orphan support, computer donations given to rural high schools and for assisting the government by implementing and providing programs that provide a quality education in rural communities.

  The second award is from the Rural Village Micro-Credit Association group. ENA was rated number one because of the loan opportunities we give to women. As result of the loans, they determined that we have provided a substantial improvement in their and their families' living standards and quality of life. 

It's an honor to be recognized for the work we do and are grateful for the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of the Ethiopian people we love!!

To learn more about ENA or make a donation to help us continue doing the work we love, visit us here!

Sunday, March 1, 2015

Sierra Leone- Ebola Aid Arrives


Due to Engage Now Africa's established infrastructure and presence in Sierra Leone, we were able to act quickly to send aid to the areas devastated by the Ebola crisis. ENA's supplies arrived before the UN and other large organizations sending aid. We were also able to lend our connections and services to help other organizations send supplies. Our committed staff worked tirelessly to distribute and monitor the supplies despite being personally affected by the tragedy.

ENA's Lyn Clinic is located in Bo, near the epicenter of the outbreak. It's idealic location allowed our hospital to be used as a staging facility throughout the crisis. We express our deepest condolences to those who suffered illness and loss due to Ebola. 

And we are grateful to have been able to provide supplies, facilities and connections to provide support to the wonderful people of Sierra Leone. 

Pictured below is ENA's Mohammed Turry (in blue) and our supplies arriving in Sierra Leone. 

Thank you to everyone who donated and helped facilitate this shipment. 

Throughout the Ebola crisis we have learned that we can make a huge impact with limited monetary donations. To make a difference and donate to ENA or to learn more about our health initiatives, visit our website here!