We are always incredibly proud of our girls, but recently, several of them have stood out and given us extra reason to celebrate.

Nayari was selected to speak to the Tanzanian Parliament on the topic of women’s rights. Not many 12-year-olds would have the presence and courage to serve as a spokesperson on such an important national stage, but Nayari spoke clearly, with grace and absolute confidence. When she first came to MGRC as a shy seven-year-old, she had a difficult time speaking at all. Now, look at her go!

Bahati’s goalball team took home top honors in a recent tournament. Goalball is a highly strategic, fast-paced team sport specifically designed for athletes with visual impairments. With only three players on the court at a time, everyone wears blackout eyeshades and must throw or roll a heavy, bell-bearing ball into the opposing team’s net using only hearing and touch. It’s an incredible feat that makes soccer look easy!

Despite her strong spirit and hard work, Tabitha has previously struggled in government schools due to significant learning disabilities. With official government approval, Tabitha is now being homeschooled by Mama Flora, giving us an incredible reason to celebrate as she truly thrives. In addition to her studies, Tabitha oversees our new rabbit project, finding immense joy and a deep sense of purpose in her new responsibilities.

Finally, many of our older girls are hitting beautiful milestones in emotional maturity. After a few insightful conversations and visits from MGRC alumnae, they are really beginning to understand the importance of making good independent choices. As any parent knows, worrying about teens maturing into responsible young adults is universal, and it is no different for us here at MGRC.

School’s out, but MGRC is hopping with Summer adventure!

Summer is in full swing, and the girls are keeping busy. To help them build independent thinking, teamwork, modern tech literacy, and financial management skills, we are piloting a brand-new program: the Learn and Earn Summer Adventure.

In a nutshell, the girls chose one of four key campus projects to research and improve as a team:

• Farm Improvement
• Grounds Improvement
• Baking and Cooking
• Managing the MGRC Store

Each team has a dedicated coach to serve as a guide, but the girls themselves set the goals, make the decisions, and report on their progress. Along the way, they earn “MGRC bucks” for hitting milestones, exhibiting positive behavior, and supporting one another. They can then spend their earnings directly in the MGRC store.

We are just wrapping up week one, and while both the girls and coaches are still finding their rhythm, we are already seeing fantastic results. The cooking team has developed new recipes that will be added to the ecoLodge menu, the farm team has successfully introduced strawberries, and the grounds team has beautifully cleaned and refurbished the cow barns!

Another reason to celebrate is welcoming our loyal volunteers

We simply could not do this work without our loyal, generous, and faithful volunteers. Cammy, one of our long-time supporters, will be visiting us very soon, and the entire campus is thrilled. Cammy always brings immense joy, happiness, and positive energy into our lives, and we are forever grateful for her presence.

We are also looking forward to welcoming a guest volunteer from Switzerland, who will be hosting workshops with the girls focused on career goals, self-awareness, and building self-confidence.

Yes, it does take a village, and we are grateful for ours. If you are interested in volunteering in Tanzania →