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Our Trip to Accra, Ghana: Supporting Education with Forward-Ever Backward-Never
This past summer(2024), our team at the Forward-Ever Backward-Never Organization embarked on an impactful journey to Accra, Ghana. Our mission was to extend our support to the local community, specifically at Mayera Dunwell Methodist School, a small but vibrant institution in desperate need of attention and resources. This visit deepened our understanding of the challenges faced by students and educators and reinforced our commitment to making a difference. Meeting the Community Upon arrival, we were warmly welcomed by the school’s headmaster, teachers, and students. The sense of hope and resilience within the community was truly inspiring. We spent time speaking with the headmaster and teachers to learn about the school’s needs and the obstacles they face daily. Their insights gave us a clearer picture of the situation and highlighted areas where our support could be most effective. Touring the School As we toured the school, the extent of the challenges became evident. The classrooms are in dire need of renovation, with crumbling walls, broken furniture, and limited resources for both students and teachers. The school kitchen, an essential facility for providing meals, is also in poor condition and requires significant upgrades to ensure it can function properly. The teachers are doing their best with what little they have, but they lack basic teaching materials, including a proper teacher’s desk. The students, brimming with potential, are in need of essential school supplies such as books, notebooks, and writing tools. Witnessing these challenges firsthand was a poignant reminder of the disparities in educational resources across different parts of the world. Taking Action At Forward-Ever Backward-Never, we believe that education is the cornerstone of progress and empowerment. Our goal is to address the immediate needs of Mayera Dunwell Methodist School while laying the foundation for long-term support. This includes: A Call for Support Our visit to Mayera Dunwell Methodist School was both humbling and inspiring. It underscored the importance of community-driven efforts to improve education for children who deserve every opportunity to succeed. We cannot do this alone. We invite you to join us in this mission to transform lives through education. Your donations, whether monetary or in the form of school supplies, can make a significant impact. Together, we can ensure that these students and teachers have the tools they need to build a brighter future. Moving Forward As we continue our work at Mayera Dunwell Methodist School, we are reminded of the words that drive our organization: Forward-Ever, Backward-Never. Progress is possible when we come together to uplift one another. Stay tuned for updates on this project, and thank you for being part of this journey with us. To learn more about how you can help, please visit our website or contact us directly. Let’s make a difference, one school at a time.
Help Us Transform Mayera Dunwell Methodist School in Ghana
At Forward Ever Backward Never Organization, we believe that education is the key to a brighter future. Our mission is to support the development of schools and provide essential resources to students and teachers across Africa. We recently embarked on our first project at the Mayera Dunwell Methodist School, located in a small village in Ghana. A School in Need Mayera Dunwell Methodist School is in urgent need of help. The school building is in a state of disrepair, with crumbling walls, broken windows, and a kitchen that is barely functional. The classrooms lack basic materials such as desks, chairs, and even school books. Despite these challenges, the students and teachers remain dedicated to learning and teaching. Our Mission During our visit, we were moved by the resilience and determination of the students and staff. It’s clear that with the right support, this school can become a safe and inspiring place for learning. Our goal is to completely remodel the school, including: How You Can Help We cannot do this alone. We need your support to make this transformation possible. Here are a few ways you can help: Join Us in Making a Difference The children of Mayera Dunwell Methodist School deserve a safe and nurturing environment where they can learn and grow. With your help, we can turn this vision into reality. Join us in making a lasting impact on these students’ lives. Visit our donation page to contribute and learn more about how you can get involved. Together, we can ensure a brighter future for the children of Mayera Dunwell Methodist School. Thank you for your support!
About the Co-Founder L.P. Henson
Education has always been the cornerstone of my life. From a young age, I found myself captivated by the endless possibilities that knowledge could unlock. This passion for learning and sharing knowledge has guided my career and personal endeavors, culminating in the co-founding of a non-profit organization called Forward-Ever Backward-Never. This organization represents more than just a name; it embodies a philosophy and a mission that I hold dear. The Genesis of Forward-Ever Backward-Never The journey to co-founding Forward-Ever Backward-Never was sparked by a deep-seated belief in the transformative power of education. Growing up between Ghana and the United States, I witnessed firsthand the disparities in educational opportunities and the profound impact that access to quality education can have on individuals and communities. This dual perspective fueled my desire to create a platform that could bridge these gaps and empower individuals through education. Forward-Ever Backward-Never was established with the goal of providing resources, support, and opportunities to underserved communities. Our initiatives range from educational workshops and scholarship programs to mentorship and skill development sessions. By fostering an environment of continuous learning and growth, we aim to equip individuals with the tools they need to achieve their dreams and contribute positively to society. A Creative Pathway My passion for education is paralleled by my love for creativity. Five years ago, I founded a publication company, a venture that allowed me to merge my creative instincts with my professional expertise. With over a decade of experience in graphic designing, copywriting, and writing, I have self-published seventeen books from novels to coloring books that explore various facets of human experience and imagination. The world of publishing has been a playground for my creative endeavors, enabling me to bring ideas to life in ways that resonate with readers. It’s a testament to the power of creativity as a vehicle for communication, expression, and education. A Tech-Savvy Educator In addition to my creative pursuits, I am deeply entrenched in the world of technology. I am a web developer responsible for creating and maintaining multiple websites, ensuring they run smoothly and effectively serve their purposes. My fascination with technology extends to my academic pursuits. I hold an undergraduate certificate in Cyber Security and am currently pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Information Systems, specializing in Web Development and Administration. As a self-proclaimed tech junkie, I am always on the lookout for new innovations, particularly in the realm of AI integration. The intersection of technology and education offers endless possibilities for enhancing learning experiences and making education more accessible and engaging. Bridging Continents, Sharing Knowledge My life is a blend of cultures and experiences, as I split my time between Ghana and the United States. This unique lifestyle allows me to draw from diverse perspectives and incorporate them into my work. Whether it’s through developing educational programs, writing, or web development, I strive to create solutions that are inclusive and effective. In a world that is constantly evolving, my commitment to education and creativity remains unwavering. Forward-Ever Backward-Never is not just a non-profit organization; it is a manifestation of my belief in the power of knowledge and the importance of moving forward, always learning, and never regressing. I am a passionate educator and creative professional with over a decade of experience in graphic designing, copywriting, and writing. I co-founded the non-profit organization Forward-Ever Backward-Never, driven by a commitment to bridging educational gaps and empowering communities. Five years ago, I also started a publication company to explore my creative instincts further, resulting in the self-publication of three books. My technical expertise includes web development and regular maintenance of multiple websites. With an undergraduate certificate in Cyber Security, I am currently pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Information Systems, specializing in Web Development and Administration. A tech enthusiast, I am particularly interested in integrating AI into my work. Living between Ghana and the United States, I bring a rich blend of cultural insights into my professional endeavors. My mission is to inspire, educate, and innovate, always moving forward and never looking back.
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Our Journey to Accra: Building a Non-Profit for a Brighter Future
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