Our integrated approach in action
How our savings groups, literacy program, and mental health program work together to strengthen and empower our Thrivers. “Ajing Ajing- I became strengthened somehow!” Helen exclaimed during one of her counseling sessions. She was describing her feeling after joining the VSLA (Village Savings and Loan) group. She had just lost her husband and felt totally […]
Abalo’s Story: First Timer in Group Savings
Uganda is comprised of many tribes, the dominant ones are the Luo and Bantu.The Luo (Acholi) are the people in northern Uganda who were disturb by the LRA (Lords Resistance Army) for more than 25 years. Many people were killed, displaced and forced to go and stay in camps. Here is Abalo sharing her story. It […]
My Visit to Gulu
I had the opportunity to visit Uganda this past July with a group from ThriveGulu. I was so excited about my trip and my chance to fulfill a dream of mine to go to Africa. There were many great experiences, but my favorite part of the trip was meeting with the women from two of the women’s groups. They were so friendly from […]
Meet Thriver Grace
The great truth in this world is that most people are looking for the same things. Health, happiness, and a better life for themselves and their families. Grace is no different. Grace lives in Anywang Village, Uganda with her five children, and she works hard every day with the dream of paying for their schooling […]
Meet Janet
JANET – Unity is Strength Women’s Group “Atye ki ot bati!” – “I have an iron-roofed house!” Janet never dreamed that she would live in an iron-roofed house. She was more worried about surviving the day and getting enough food. Simply put, she had no time to think about a home. Abducted as a child […]
Electricity
Nearly two years ago we embarked on “lighting up” our part of Gulu. Our “Christmas Lights for Gulu” campaign raised over $8,000 to bring electricity to the newly constructed center. The project has taken many twists and turns. Ugandan Government programs held the hope that we could not only electrify the center, but light up […]
Apwoyo Matek /Thank you: Austyn’s Experience in Gulu, Uganda
Dora and I walked to the end of a now familiar road into what was formerly an IDP camp but is now comprised of huts being rented by Gulu citizens. The morning fog was still settling behind the thatch-roofed huts as we walked into the village, shook off our shoes and ducked to enter through the […]
August Advocacy Trip to Gulu-Thoughts from first time travelers
In late August, a group of supporters traveled with THRIVE to Gulu, Uganda. It was the first time for Greg, Nate and Kurt. They shared with us some of their thoughts and experiences. “I was surprised by the friendliness and openness of the people, and how welcoming they were. THRIVE has advised the women’s groups […]
My First Time in Uganda – Visiting the Pearl of Africa with THRIVEGulu
I first learned about the war and atrocities in Uganda when I was in college. I studied the conflicts occurring in the lives of the Ugandan people in a communications class. I wanted to help, but found the idea of getting involved with a non-profit helping in Africa intimidating. Which organization could I trust? What […]
