After two decades of providing education and support to children in Kenya, Our Kenyan Kids is celebrating its 20th anniversary and honoring its founder, Dr. Mary Lou Klassen.
Founded in 2001, Our Kenyan Kids is a Canadian charity that aims to improve the lives of children in Kenya through education, healthcare, and community development. The organization currently supports over 200 children in the Kibera slum, one of the largest and poorest slums in Africa.
Dr. Klassen, a retired pediatrician, first visited Kenya in 1999 and was struck by the poverty and lack of opportunities for children in the country. She was determined to make a difference and founded Our Kenyan Kids with the help of her family and friends.
Over the past 20 years, the organization has grown significantly, providing education and support to children from preschool to university. They also offer healthcare services, including vaccinations and medical check-ups, to the children and their families.
In addition to education and healthcare, Our Kenyan Kids also focuses on community development. They have built a community center in Kibera, which serves as a safe space for children to learn and play. The organization also runs a microfinance program for women in the community, empowering them to start their own businesses and become financially independent.
The impact of Our Kenyan Kids can be seen in the success stories of the children they have supported. Many have gone on to graduate from university and secure well-paying jobs, breaking the cycle of poverty in their families.
To celebrate their 20th anniversary, Our Kenyan Kids is hosting a virtual event on October 2nd, 2021. The event will feature performances by Kenyan artists and testimonials from the children and families who have been helped by the organization.
Dr. Klassen, who retired from the organization in 2018, will be honored for her dedication and hard work in making a positive impact on the lives of children in Kenya. Her legacy will continue to live on through the work of Our Kenyan Kids.
As the organization looks towards the future, they remain committed to their mission of providing education, healthcare, and community development to children in Kenya. With the support of donors and volunteers, they hope to continue making a difference in the lives of those in need.
In conclusion, the 20th anniversary of Our Kenyan Kids is a testament to the power of one person’s determination and the impact it can have on a community. Dr. Klassen’s vision and hard work have changed the lives of hundreds of children and will continue to do so for years to come.
