This June, my wife and I are embarking on an exciting and deeply meaningful journey to Accra, Ghana. We are thrilled to share that we are starting a non-profit organization called Forward Ever Backward Never. Our mission is to foster sustainable development and create opportunities for underprivileged communities in Ghana, and we can’t wait to begin this adventure.
Why Accra?
Accra, the vibrant capital city of Ghana, is a place of rich culture, history, and potential. With a population of over 2 million people, it’s a city that embodies the spirit of progress and resilience. However, like many rapidly growing urban centers, Accra faces significant challenges, including poverty, unemployment, and access to education and healthcare.
We chose Accra not only for its dynamic environment but also because of the incredible people we’ve met and the inspiring stories we’ve heard. There is a palpable sense of community and a strong desire for positive change. We believe that by working together with local leaders and residents, we can make a real difference.
Our Vision: Forward Ever Backward Never
The name of our organization, Forward Ever Backward Never, encapsulates our philosophy and commitment to continuous progress. We envision a future where every individual, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to thrive. Our non-profit will focus on three core areas:
1. Education: We believe that education is the cornerstone of sustainable development. Our goal is to improve access to quality education for children and young adults. This includes providing scholarships, and school supplies, and creating safe learning environments. We also plan to implement adult education programs to enhance literacy and vocational skills.
2. Healthcare: Access to healthcare is a fundamental human right. We aim to support local health initiatives by providing medical supplies, organizing health camps, and promoting health education. Our efforts will particularly focus on maternal and child health, as well as preventive care.
3. Economic Empowerment: Empowering individuals economically is crucial for breaking the cycle of poverty. We will offer training programs, mentorship, and resources to help people start and grow their own businesses. By fostering entrepreneurship and innovation, we hope to create sustainable livelihoods and boost the local economy.
Preparing for the Journey
Starting a non-profit in a new country is a monumental task, but we are ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities that come our way. Over the past year, we have been diligently planning and building partnerships with local organizations and community leaders in Accra. Their insights and support have been invaluable in shaping our approach and ensuring that our initiatives are culturally sensitive and impactful.
We’ve also been busy fundraising and gathering resources to support our programs. From community events to online campaigns, the outpouring of support from friends, family, and even strangers has been heartwarming. Every donation and message of encouragement strengthens our resolve to make Forward Ever Backward Never a reality.
What Lies Ahead
As we prepare to leave for Accra, we are filled with a mix of excitement, anticipation, and a touch of nervousness. We know that the road ahead will be filled with hard work and unforeseen challenges, but we are committed to our mission. Our journey is not just about building an organization; it’s about building relationships, understanding the needs of the community, and working hand in hand to create lasting change.
We invite you to join us on this incredible journey. Follow our progress, share our story, and if you feel inspired, contribute in any way you can. Together, we can move forward ever, backward never, towards a brighter future for all.
Stay Connected
We will be documenting our experiences and sharing updates regularly on our blog and social media channels. Stay tuned for stories from the ground, insights into our projects, and ways you can get involved. Your support and encouragement mean the world to us as we take this leap of faith.
Thank you for believing in us and our vision. Here’s to new beginnings and making a difference, one step at a time.
With gratitude,
L.P. and Kymberley
