I am entering retirement, and my last day as the eduKenya U.S. Communications Coordinator is August 31. As I write my last blog and reflect upon my time with eduKenya, I am grateful for the opportunity to serve with an extraordinary and dedicated staff in Kenya and the U.S. I have also been blessed by a fabulous troop of volunteers who helped me with projects throughout the years.

So much has occurred within the organization in the past 4 1/2 years. There are many wondrous stories about staff, students, families, and the Mathare community. I would like to recap a few of the marvelous events I was privileged to witness during my tenure with eduKenya.The Community Support Ministry (CSM)

The Community Support Ministry (CSM) was developed as an outgrowth of the former Home-Based Care program. CSM was developed to address the multiple needs of our students, their parents, and the Mathare community. CSM activities follow eduKenya’s organization policy to bring transformation through opportunity, including classes to teach income-earning skills and the development of a community initiative to raise and distribute funds to those in crisis.Partner Organizations

Partnerships with organizations that increase the number of opportunities available to our students and their families. Including Kiva, Kijabe Children’s Education Fund, Tanari Trust, and Christian Best Camps of Kenya. Collaboration with these organizations has blessed many through the provision of food, computers, Christ-centered programming, and support for the children and families served by eduKenya.New Mawewa Primary School Building

On September 1, 2015, our students walked into a new, beautiful, bright, customized school. The Mawewa Primary School building provides students and staff with large classrooms and lunchroom, washrooms on every floor, a new kitchen, and outdoor space.Permanent Boarding School Property

eduKenya purchased property in Masimba designated for the future permanent boarding school for grades 6-12. This school will enable all older students to get out of the slum for their final years of school, reducing their exposure to negative influences that inhibit hope and opportunity.Temporary Boarding School

In January 2016, eduKenya opened a temporary boarding school for its high school students in a temporary facility in Naivasha, 57 miles northwest of Nairobi. The teachers and students have forged a competitive education program with high academic standards and extracurricular activities.Kenya Certificate of Primary Education Exams

2015 marked the first time Mawewa School’s Class 8 took part in Kenya Certificate of Primary Education exams, the gateway test that grants passage from primary school to high school.

I love how God works in-and-through the lives of those whom eduKenya serves, and the individuals and organizations faithful to make it happen. I look forward to watching and supporting the eduKenya staff as they continue to share the love of Jesus in Word and deed for years to come.Much affection and gratitude,Kathie Bishop Friedel