rwanda...development and communications assistant magazine collaborators brice bohrer creative story...
TRANSCRIPT
HOPE HAVENRW A N D A
Transforming families through Christ-centered education | 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 2 1
A Mother’s Story of Faith and Resilience
08
12On Her Way
to Becoming a World-Changer
13Overcoming the
Odds to Graduate
19Families Serving
Together in Rwanda
Susan Hollern
Founder and President
Jason Peters, DMin
Chief Executive OfficerLiz Ingabire
Managing Director
Fred Karangwa, MEd
School Director
Priscillah Kembabazi, MSW
Director of Families
Mignone Mwiza, CPA
Director of Finance
Jean Claude Shema
Chaplain
Wendy Raffaeli, CPA
Director of Investor Relations
Sarah Damour
Operations Manager
Paige Steele
Development and Communications Assistant
Magazine Collaborators
Brice Bohrer CreativeStory Solutions
Hope Haven Rwanda is a free annual publication to inspire friends, volunteers and
donors who support the mission of The Hope Haven Charitable Trust.
Together, we are transforming Rwandan families through a holistic approach to education and discipleship, actively demonstrating the love,
hope and truth of Jesus Christ.
If you have comments, questions or address changes, we want to hear from you.
Please contact us by email to [email protected] or
call 720-900-1328.
The Hope Haven Charitable Trust 2417 N. Perry Park Rd., Sedalia, CO 80135
2020–2021, Vol. 1, No. 1
© 2020 The Hope Haven Charitable Trust. All rights reserved. No material may be
reproduced without our written permission.
All Scripture, unless otherwise noted, is taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978,
1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
The Hope Haven Charitable Trust is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in
the United States of America. EIN #45-3066179
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3 | CONTENTS
CONTENTSHOPE HAVEN RWANDA MAGAZINE | 2020 – 2021
04CELEBRATE
05 | Remarkable Rwanda
06 | So Much Has Changed
07 | Pleased to Meet You!
08DISCOVER
08 | From Survivor to Conqueror : A Mother’s Story of Faith and Resilience
1 2 | Meet Queen: On Her Way to Becoming a World-Changer
13 | Now Is the Time: Building Hope Haven High School
1 6 | Math, Music, and High Hopes for Rwanda
17COME TOGETHER
18 | Giving? It’s a “No-Brainer”
19 | Three Generations Serving Together : The Wagner Family
20 | Lifting Up the Entire Community
21 | J.O.Y.
23 | What Is God Calling Us to Do?
“ A generous person will prosper;
whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.”
PROVERBS 11:25
4 | HOPE HAVEN RWANDA
CELEBRATE Impundu | Give a shout-out to good things happening
The rapid growth of Hope Haven
reflects God’s grace displayed
throughout the country of Rwanda
during recent decades.
5 | CELEBRATE
The natural beauty. The Land of
a Thousand Hills. Magnificent mountain gorillas in Volcanoes
National Park. Primates in the
Nyungwe Rain Forest. Safari animals
in Akagera National Park. These unique
experiences have long enticed visitors
to Rwanda. Today’s Rwanda now adds
new appeal, with unparalleled economic
and development opportunities.
The rapid growth of Hope
Haven reflects God’s grace displayed throughout the country of Rwanda
during recent decades. As the first buildings were being built, Hope
Haven leaders immediately aligned
with Rwanda’s Vision 2020. This
historic initiative emphasized human capital, a vibrant private sector,
world-class infrastructure and
modern agriculture. As a result, in
2019, Hope Haven School earned
a Public Service designation from
the Rwandan government.
Today, Rwanda is featured in
international media outlets as a
remarkable success story. According
to a recent article from the BBC, “Kigali
has been transformed—by president
Paul Kagame, by new laws and policies,
and primarily by the people who live
there—into what may be the most
inviting city in Africa.”
The monthly practice of Umuganda
is a standout example. Members from
every Rwandan household gather
on the last Saturday of every month
for community service. This unique
government-led practice deepens
community bonds and has created the
cleanest country in Africa.
“Over the last two decades,
Rwanda has enjoyed impressive
growth and made good progress
in reducing poverty,” says Kristalina
Georgieva, World Bank CEO. “Rwanda’s
most precious asset is its people,
and the World Bank has a strong
partnership with the government that
will accelerate investments
in human capital in the years ahead.”
While emerging as a continental
leader, Rwanda’s chief focus for the
next three decades is human capital.
Government leaders are establishing
a knowledge-powered economy and
it is working! Hope Haven mirrors this
commitment by encouraging math,
science and technology education, and
by teaching in English.
Hope Haven’s campus is eight miles
away from the sprawling Kigali Special
Economic Zone. In this free trade
district, 682 acres promote economic
growth, increase foreign investment and
create jobs. This is yet another example
of the robust momentum in Rwanda.
Rwanda’s economy is growing
steadily at 7 percent each year yet
poverty remains. Education is a national
priority for Rwanda and it is an uphill
climb. Half of Rwanda’s population is
under the age of 24, representing 6
million children and youth. By placing
a strategic emphasis on education,
Rwandan leaders are stimulating
thoughtful development and a
promising future for all its citizens.
Remarkable Rwanda
THE YEAR 2019 marked the 25th anniversary of the genocide against the Tutsi people in Rwanda. National reconciliation followed those dark days—so much that we feel compelled to call it miraculous.
The intentionality of the Rwandan government and the openness of citizens has led to systemic change and deep healing. Today, humility and forgiveness characterize Rwandans. Rwanda rates as the safest country in Africa and the ninth safest country in the world.
Did You Know?
So Much Has Changed
When Hope Haven began in 2012, there were
no schools in Murindi, although it sits 13 miles
outside the modern capital city of Kigali. Children
in the village were uneducated, malnourished and dirty.
Nearly half of the students in Rwanda who take the Grade
6 national exam score at the lowest level or fail. By age 16,
only 56 percent of youth are in school. By age 19, only 15
percent are able to continue their education.
Recent government statistics report that 287,721 Rwandan
students took the Grade 6 national exam. Dramatic decreases
in enrollment were reported in higher grades with only 119,932
students taking the Grade 9 standardized examination and 51,291 completing the Grade 12 national exam. As they advance
in age, many Rwandan children are unable to continue their
studies and are being left behind. Government leaders are
strategically emphasizing the need for education with hopes of
increasing the number of children attending school. Hope Haven
is rising to this important opportunity by providing a meaningful
educational environment for these future leaders.
Due to a shortage of qualified teachers, many Rwandan public schools rely on double shifting. Students attend either
mornings or afternoons with a student-teacher ratio of 120:1. In
contrast, Hope Haven offers full-day instruction, teachers with
excellent English, student-teacher ratios of 45:1, bright learning
spaces, nutritious food, textbooks and extracurricular activities.
In 2018, Hope Haven completed construction on innovative
physics, chemistry and biology labs. These labs are abuzz with
experiments, demonstrations and hands-on learning. Technology
is another focus for Hope Haven, with more than 70 laptops
and 100 tablets on campus. Each classroom is also equipped
with a projector and document reader.
The social and physical needs of students are a priority
as well. A robust social work department delivers care and
instruction to the entire family. With regular family check-ins,
staff coordinate help for especially needy families. This type of
attention, along with the 235,000 meals served in 2019 and
a projected 286,000 meals in 2020, is one key to the healthy
development of this community.
Hope Haven also employs a full-time chaplain who works
with parents, kids and the community. He teaches Bible classes
for every grade level, leads staff Bible studies and oversees
monthly worship events for the community. The chaplain also
mentors men in entrepreneurship and oversees training for
more than 400 women in financial savings groups.Visitors today find it hard to believe that eight years ago
Hope Haven welcomed its first class of 97 students. Classes began under a giant acacia tree which still shades the campus
today and stands as a symbol of growth. Now more than 750
students bursting with potential attend a rigorous academic
program, complete with healthy meals. Today, with a team of
80 incredible teachers and staff, Hope Haven is one of the
top-ranked schools in Rwanda.
6 | HOPE HAVEN RWANDA
God has miraculously grown Hope Haven
Rwanda from classes meeting under a tree to
an extensive modern school campus, which
is dramatically changing the landscape of the
entire community.
7 | DISCOVER
PLEASED TO MEET YOU!Nishimiye kuba menya is how we say “pleased to meet you” in
Kinyarwanda. In a context that promotes deep relationships, this
is a common way to birth a new friendship. Hope Haven Rwanda
promotes a culture of honor and gratitude—and we are indeed
pleased to meet you and know you!
We completed a major upgrade to our kitchen facilities in 2018
to accommodate our growing student body.
Advancing from counting rocks and sticks to
integrated technology, our classrooms now
compete with the rest of the nation and world.
8 | HOPE HAVEN RWANDA
DISCOVER Kuvumbura | Learn about challenges and opportunities
From Survivor to
F ROM TH E COV E R
Surviving genocide is, in itself, an extraordinary
story. Today, Solange is the mother of three
children who attend Hope Haven School, where
she also works. Her story continues to unfold
with ever-increasing faith and resilience.
Even 26 years later, it is difficult to find anyone in Rwanda untouched by the 1994 genocide against the
Tutsi. The imprint of trauma is clear in
the struggling Murindi neighborhood
surrounding Hope Haven School.
Murindi is an umudugudu, or village,
lined with mud huts. Life is arduous.
Families have limited access to power,
water and latrines. In one of these mud
homes, a young mother does everything
she can to care for her family and offer
them a brighter tomorrow.
No family should ever experience
the trauma that has left its marks on
Solange’s life. And yet, as she walks
the two miles to the school to start
work each day, Solange reflects on how good God has been to bring her
help. Her journey to this point has not
been easy, but it has fueled faith and
resilience to change the trajectory of
life for her children.
Surviving Genocide as a Five-Year-OldBorn in 1990, in the Northern Rwanda
town of Byumba, Solange was five
years old when militants stormed
into her village. They killed her father
and three of her siblings. Solange also
believed that they killed her mother,
but six years later she would find out the truth.
For the next few years, Solange
lived with her grandparents. After
losing so much, her grandmother
was not very nurturing. Then, when
Solange was eight years of age, her
grandmother died. Forced to move in
with her uncle, Solange experienced a
lot of pain in that home as well.
When she could not integrate
into her uncle’s family, Solange moved
in with a neighbor whom she hoped
would care for her. While she worked
as a servant, the neighbor promised
to take Solange with her to Uganda
for a better life. For unknown reasons,
the neighbor was unable to cross the
border with Solange. In a dramatic
episode, she arranged to have the
11-year-old girl return to her village in
Byumba alone.
Today, one of Solange’s co-workers
at Hope Haven School, Rosette Mutesi
says: “Solange has passed through a
very difficult life. I can’t imagine.”
Unraveling the Mystery of Her Mother’s DisappearanceReturning from the Uganda border
alone, Solange was about to unravel a
six-year-old mystery.
When she arrived back in Byumba, a
friend told Solange that her mother was
alive. Her mother had not died in the
genocide. She was alive and living in the
city of Kigali! Solange couldn’t believe it.
She finally accepted this new reality and accompanied her friend to Kigali.
Solange remembers how stunned
she felt when she saw her mother for
the first time in six years. She was more shocked when she found out that her
mother had sold their family land and
started a new life in Kigali. Her mother
owned a house, had remarried and now
had four children with her new husband.
“I was so hurt when I found my
mom,” she says. “I couldn’t believe it.”
At 11 years of age, Solange moved
in with her mother and her new
stepfather. It wasn’t long before they
A MOTHER’S STORY OF FA ITH AND RES IL IENCE
Solange remembers how stunned
she felt when she saw her mother
for the first time in
10 | HOPE HAVEN RWANDA
began to experience intense friction.
The stepfather wasn’t happy to have
Solange in his home. He did not know
about his wife’s former life and did not
want to be responsible for another child.
She wasn’t his daughter.
The situation escalated to the point
where the only option for Solange was
to become the “house girl,” or servant,
for this new family. Before long, she
found a neighbor who would let her
move in to work as a house girl.
Learning to Trust AgainAs she grew into a young woman,
Solange worked in the home of a
Christian woman. Her employer said
she was “born-again” and showed
authentic compassion to Solange.
Solange never attended school.
The only education she received was
at church.
Church became a safe place.
Solange’s employer took her to the
education outreach each Sunday and
helped her learn how to read and
write. It is the only formal education
Solange has ever had.
Solange continued working as a
house girl throughout her teenage
years. She met her future husband,
Emmanuel, in Kigali, where he was a
construction worker. They married in
2007. She was 17 years old.
At the time, Emmanuel was hard-
working, but it wasn’t long before he
lost his job. His friends told him that
there were cheap homes available
in Murindi. So, in 2009, Solange and
Emmanuel moved to Murindi. They
rented a small mud hut down the road
from where Hope Haven would begin
hosting classes three years later.
Discovering Hope in Her New NeighborhoodDuring the three years before Hope
Haven was born, Solange lived
in Murindi and had two children,
Deborah and Steven. Her daughter
and son added to the strain of life, and
Solange wondered how their futures
would unfold.
“Sometimes, you pass through
temptations to make you strong,” she
says. “You will also be a testimony for
others who are going to pass through
those tribulations.”
In the midst of extreme trials,
Solange was learning to find hope in Jesus.
“Jesus to me is a problem solver.
He helps me with everything. He’s the
one who sustains me. He strengthens
us in our paths. He gives us courage.
He makes us strong. His promises to
us are good not bad.”
When Hope Haven School
launched in 2012, Solange immediately
enrolled Deborah. Her daughter
is now in Senior I (Grade 7) and
recently passed Rwanda’s standardized examinations along with the 27 other
students in her class. Solange couldn’t
be more proud!
“Hope Haven educates my children,
and I am so happy when I see my
children in school. My heart is at peace.”
Providing for Her FamilyBeyond a place for her children to
learn, Hope Haven also provides the
opportunity for employment. Solange
initially joined the agriculture team,
where she helped grow and harvest
food for student meals. Being on staff
at Hope Haven is another reason
the trajectory of this family’s life has
changed forever.
“Before I came to Hope Haven,
I was working in other people’s fields to get money each day,” says Solange.
“Now, I get a monthly salary that helps
me to get food in the evening for
my family.”
Solange’s resilience is astonishing
to everyone around her, including
Paige Steele, a fellow team member at
Hope Haven. Paige says: “Solange is the
strongest woman I know. God has a
special place in heaven for her someday,
for sure.”
Today, Solange’s 10-year-old son,
Steven, and her 3-year-old son, Sam, join
Deborah at Hope Haven School every
day. It is a dream come true for Solange.
“One big dream I have for my children
is to see them complete school. I don’t
want them to be in the life that I was in
when I was young. With God’s help, my
children will be able to complete school.”
Relying on God Through Tough Times Solange has seen God’s help firsthand, especially through tough times.
“When Deborah was about to
reach Primary 4 (Grade 4), I was
completely broke. I didn’t even know if
Deborah could continue her studies.”
Solange met with Liz Ingabire, the managing director of Hope Haven
In the midst of extreme
trials, Solange was learning
to find hope in Jesus.
11 | DISCOVER
WHAT WE
LEARN FROM
ECONOMICALLY
VULNERABLE
PEOPLE
Economically vulnerable people live
with an ever-present awareness
of their dependence on God. They recognize that they are unable to survive on their own and lean on God to provide for them.
Economically vulnerable people are
often less distracted by material
possessions. While they may need to work extra hard to survive, they are not overwhelmed by many of the responsibilities, devices and concerns that distract others.
Economically vulnerable people
often have interdependent
relationships. They accept that they need each other and many are comfortable authentically sharing life
together within a community.
Economically vulnerable people often
live with an eternal perspective. When life isn’t all that they expect on earth, they often grow in their ability to look at life through a different lens—experiencing fullness of life with God in ways that transcend time and circumstance. As Jesus said, “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full” (John 10:10). These words are a promise to all who follow Jesus.
School to explain: “You know what, Liz, Deborah isn’t going to continue. Let me
try to find her another school.” “But Liz is like a mother to me.
She comforted me and told me, ‘You
know you’re going to make it, don’t
worry. Deborah will finish school.’ Now Deborah is in Secondary 1 (Grade 7),
which I didn’t think would happen.”
Solange smiles with gratitude. “I
have hope! God brought Hope Haven
into this community and it is making a
huge difference.”
Two years ago, Solange began
working on the hospitality team, where
she’s eager to develop and contribute
her skills.
“I have a lot of experience, even
if I don’t have education. I now know
how to prepare things in the kitchen
with different machines. This makes me
happy because, sometimes, I am able
to make breakfast for guests and they
enjoy it. I can also make beds in a good
way and people love it. The experience
I’ve gotten with Hope Haven is huge,
and I’m so happy for that.”
Rebuilding HomeIn 2018 Solange couldn’t hide her
joy when 30 members of Red Rocks
Church traveled from Colorado and
descended on her home in Murindi.
They came to help rebuild it following
damage from recent rains. While
Solange, her husband and their three
children tried to sleep on their straw
mats, rivulets of water flowed through the house.
Following directions from Sylvester
Nsanzimana, the lead facilities team member from Hope Haven, the church
volunteers got to work. They carried
mud bricks from a farm down the road
and plastered the house.
Over the course of several days,
the team rebuilt her home and added a
new outdoor latrine. With prayer, lots of
laughter and dozens of onlookers, they completed her new home.
Solange has renewed hope. She has
experienced deep love and compassion.
She knew that these guests from afar
cared about her and her family. As she
watched them labor, she knew that it
was a labor of love.
Rebuilding Solange’s home became
a tangible reminder of how God has
rebuilt her life.
“Being part of Hope Haven has
increased my faith,” she says. “Hope
Haven is like a family to me. The Bible
says that God cannot test us beyond
what we can overcome. That’s where
I focus my belief. With God and with
Hope Haven, I’ll be fine. I’ll be a conqueror.”
1
2
3
4
God brought Hope Haven
into this community and it
is making a
Hope Haven volunteer Barbara Lasswell
created this painting of Solange’s
deteriorating home prior to its complete
renovation by volunteers in 2018.
When Queen showed up for her first day of school at eight years of age, she radiated joy.
She remembers studying English on that day and
meeting some of the teachers she still sees on campus.
One of those teachers, Abed, was her math teacher for
three years—and her favorite.
Why? “He listens to your problem, he understands you,” she
says. She’s talking about life, not math—though she shows keen
ability in both.
A World-ChangerQueen is setting her sights on bigger problems beyond her own
experience. She longs to make a global impact.
“I want to work in the World Bank to show the world
that women can go higher,” she says. “As Nelson Mandela said,
‘Education is the most powerful thing to change the world.’ I am
studying hard to achieve that.”
She’s an outstanding student with spiritual desires as strong
as her professional ambitions.
“Whatever I’m going to do, even if it is risky, I pray to God to
get the success. I want to help the poor. I want to teach people
about God, how they should believe in Him and I want to help
people with disabilities. I want to be a woman who is humble
but strong. I want to be a kindhearted woman.”
Queen sees an inspiring role model in Susan Hollern, the
founder of Hope Haven Rwanda.
“She started this school. She is kind. She helps other people
who can’t manage. She works hard for not only her family, but
for other communities to benefit.”Through her experience at Hope Haven School, Queen has
come to understand who Jesus is. “Jesus is always my Savior in
whatever I do,” she says. “He guides me. I make sure that His
death won’t be just history, so I must work for Jesus.”
A Wise Young WomanQueen credits her teachers for instilling important lessons about
forgiveness, humility and patience. Demonstrating her solid grasp
on Scripture, she says, “God forsook the life of His child to save
the people who believe in Him.”
She is learning leadership lessons too, while setting an
example among her peers. “We have different challenges that
we face that help make us confident. When we are in group projects my fellow students select me to be their representative.
So, I often stand in front of people and God helps me with that.”
When asked what else will help her achieve her dreams,
Queen replied, “Being patient, being humble, thinking before you
act. Yeah. That will prevent my dreams from being shut down.”
Wise words from this remarkable young woman who is well
on her way to becoming a world-changer.
Meet Queen: On Her Way to Becoming a World-Changer
I want to be a
woman who is
humble but strong.
12 | HOPE HAVEN RWANDA
13 | DISCOVER
Queen dreams of becoming a leader at the World Bank.
You can find Nickita in the library today preparing to work in an operating room someday. Sedrick wants to be an engineer.
Mico loves English and aspires to be an author. These are
only a few of the students who have become known and
loved at Hope Haven School over the course of eight years.
And, they’re just a few of the students who will be ready
to utilize the secondary school in 2022. But as of today, we don’t have room for them at Hope Haven School. We have
to build it.
Not only do these students need a high school
education to help them explore their dreams and achieve
their goals, but Rwanda needs these young people to reach
their full potential as emerging leaders. By age 16, roughly
half of Rwandan students advance to high school—and sadly,
that means half don’t. You can imagine how these statistics
will play out across future generations. In fact, 82% fewer
students graduate from 12th grade than from 6th grade.
In the face of this reality, it’s no small thing for Hope
Haven to double its enrollment capacity and, every year,
give hundreds of students the opportunity to overcome the
odds by graduating from high school.
During a recent interview, H.E. Paul Kagame, President of
Rwanda, emphasized the importance of education. Noting that education is the foundation for life, he challenged
leaders: “Create an environment that brings young people to
not only discuss problems but how to solve them.”
Rwandan students who are able to attend school often
encounter student-teacher ratios of 120 to one, with 60
students attending in the morning and 60 in the afternoon.
It is tough for students to develop solutions for the future
in a room with so many of them vying for opportunity and
supported by only one teacher.
Now Is the Time: Building Hope Haven
Hope Haven students
scored in the top three to
four percent among their
peers throughout Rwanda.
The existing campus
will expand nine acres
to the east and allow
plenty of space for the
new high school.
Existing campus
14 | HOPE HAVEN RWANDA
Under the circumstances, you can’t fault the students or
the teacher. But you can offer a better opportunity—and
that’s what Hope Haven is doing.
A Model School
The need for progressive education in Rwanda is clear. One
innovative example is Hope Haven School. Students thrive
at this pace-setting school located in a struggling community
on the outskirts of the capital city of Kigali. In 2018 and 2019,
Hope Haven’s first classes to take national examinations scored in the top three to four percent among their peers
throughout Rwanda.
At Hope Haven, students learn in both English, the
language of global business, and Kinyarwanda, their mother
tongue. The program starts in preschool for a solid foundation.
According to Susan Hollern, founder and president of
Hope Haven, the key is a comprehensive approach: excellent
education with a repeatable and calculated approach to
classroom instruction, a balanced nutrition program with two
meals a day, hygiene and parental social programs—
all combined to raise up the whole family and community.
“We have worked hard to develop workbooks and
to sync up educational plans for each class. We waste less
classroom time because of our workbooks, technology and
strict planning,” she says.
President Kagame is leading the entire nation to pursue
educational technology. He urges school leaders to explore
“what young people can do with technology to create vibrant
societies and develop our economies.” With a distinct emphasis
on technology, Hope Haven Rwanda is joining this fight.
Faith-filled DreamsHope Haven Rwanda’s leaders are passionate about equipping
the next generation. CEO Jason Peters, who holds a doctorate
in Christian Education, is enthusiastic about faith-based
education at every level.
Jason’s face lights up as he shares a vision for Hope Haven
High School. “Everything we do at Hope Haven promotes
the love, hope and truth of Jesus Christ. We all recognize the life-long impact of high school on students. I am excited about
investing in deeper discipleship during these critical years.”
“Our secondary students will spend these formative years
in a safe place where they will flourish. They will emerge into adulthood as Christian world-changers,” he adds. “Now is the
15 | DISCOVER
time. We must take bold steps to expand the school campus
and capacity of Hope Haven Rwanda.”
Boarding is customary at secondary schools in Rwanda. It is
even more strategic for Hope Haven as they envision a model
often used for private high schools in the U.S. Students who
have the ability to pay the full market rate of tuition will pay
enough to provide partial scholarships for many of their peers.
In the vulnerable community of Murindi, all of the
students will advance from primary school at Hope Haven.
An additional 45 students will be added to each grade from
affluent families to share the burden of the school’s operating costs. As part of Hope Haven’s continued commitment to
lift up this community, students in the most dire financial circumstances will still pay a discounted rate of tuition.
Financial need will not hinder educational opportunity for any
student accepted into the program.
Bold Hope
By 2025, Hope Haven intends to double capacity to 1,620
students—half of them in secondary school. Students who
graduate from Hope Haven High School will be ready for
higher education. They are the future leaders of, for and from
Rwanda. These students will be teachers, engineers, lawyers,
politicians, business owners, ministers, doctors and technologists.
“Our students have embraced the opportunity offered
them,” says Susan. “Their success affirms our academic programs and inspires us to keep growing.”
In November 2019, Hope Haven Rwanda purchased
nine acres of land next to their existing campus. Rwandan
officials recognize Hope Haven as a Public Service. They approved roadway adjustments to accommodate the
adjacency. With funds already received, a waste treatment
plant is being built now.
Land planning, excavation and retaining walls are underway
for the new high school on Hope Haven’s 15-acre campus.
This is in anticipation of raising the funds required for the
construction of the projected school buildings. When
complete, there will be approximately 55,000 square feet of
new learning space. There will also be 52,000 square feet of
dormitory space for the new Secondary campus.
If historical performance is any indicator, Hope Haven’s
High School will rank among the top schools in the nation.
Now is the time to change the educational landscape for this
beautiful emerging country. Hope Haven Rwanda is a prime
example of how change will happen.
Cre
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by
Jeff B
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with G
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16 | HOPE HAVEN RWANDA
On weekdays, you’ll find Abed teaching math. On weekends, he leads worship at church. And no matter
what day it is, he’s hopeful—and you can sense it from
the moment you meet him.
As a young boy in 2008, Abed decided to become a teacher.
Even though he was only in eighth grade, he had already
experienced the magic of teaching.
He was the youngest of three children, with an older
brother and sister. They grew up in the Murindi neighborhood
before Hope Haven School was built. After losing their father
at age three, Abed and his siblings were raised by their
widowed mother.
Abed began teaching others at a young age.
“When I was a kid I used to teach and read to other
children—teaching is my passion.”
He loved to study anything related to science and also
enjoyed mathematics. After completing Teacher Training College,
Abed began his first job as a teacher.
Teaching at Hope HavenWhen he started teaching at Hope Haven in 2014, the school
was only two years old. According to Abed, even in those early
days, it was clear that Hope Haven was well organized. Every space was well utilized, with nursery classes in the morning and primary classes using the same facilities in the afternoon.
Some of his earliest students have advanced to Senior 2
(Grade 8) today. “It makes me so proud to see them and to
know that I was with them for that journey,” Abed says.
His primary role is as a mathematics teacher, but
he is also an accomplished musician. He helps organize student performances at school, including dances and
choral music, and he provides private guitar lessons to
Hope Haven students.
Leading WorshipLeading worship is also a passion for Abed. Each
weekend, he hurries through household chores so
he can make it to church for Saturday rehearsals. On
Sundays, you will find him leading worship, reflecting on his early days as a seven-year-old drummer in church.
Abed’s mother was a choir leader, and his older
brother and sister also served on the worship team.
Like many Rwandans, they experienced joy in making
music. When life is challenging, the right song lifts spirits
toward heaven!
When asked why he invests so much of every
weekend in church, Abed replies, “To me, Jesus is my
Savior. He’s my provider, He’s my comforter, He’s my
helper. When I meet any challenge, I remember that I
can do all things through Jesus who gives me strength.
I apply that in my daily life at home, and especially at
school, because that is where I spend much more time
than any other place.”
Looking AheadAbed has high hopes for the future of Rwanda when
he considers the quality of his students.
“I would like to see my students at another level,”
he says. “Some are geniuses, some are more musically
talented than me, so I want to see them in a bank,
as ministers, as government leaders. That is my hope
for them.”
With quality teachers like Abed at their side, those
aspirations are bound to come true!
When I meet any
challenge, I remember
that I can do all things
through Jesus who
gives me strength.
Math, Music, and High Hopes for Rwanda
17 | COME TOGETHER
COME Guterana | Create connections that make a difference
TOGETHER
We are so thankful
that the Holy Spirit
nudged us to say yes.
18 | HOPE HAVEN RWANDA
“ Our decision to give as a family
was a ‘no-brainer,’” says
Mary Cooper. “We want to
help these beautiful people in whatever
way we can!”
Mary and her family have
experienced the powerful transformation
that can happen when people step away
from their routine. They’ve seen how
God moves in profound ways when we
are in a new place, meeting new people
and experiencing new opportunities.
She and her husband Matt
have been married for 17 years, and
God has entrusted them with seven
amazing children. Mary recalls the growing impact
Hope Haven Rwanda has had on their
family. “In 2018, we were able to send
our 14-year-old son, Matthew, to Hope
Haven. We followed along through his
photos, videos and FaceTime.”
“It was absolutely God-led. I never
thought anyone from my family would
travel to Africa. All the pieces fell into
place as we prayed about it. We are so
thankful that the Holy Spirit nudged us
to say yes.”
One month later, Matt Cooper
landed in Rwanda to join his son. He knew
that he was coming to serve in a place
that had experienced a lot of trauma.
He landed on a Saturday afternoon
when “people were busy having fun and
watching the World Cup matches.”
He was most excited to see
Matthew, who was finishing up a month-long stint as a volunteer at Hope Haven
School. For the next few days, Matt and
Matthew served alongside each other.
They carried water for local villagers and
helped build a mud house together. They
also rode bicycle taxis around the village
and met the first student that their family sponsored.
That was Matt’s first time in Africa. “I loved seeing the joy that people had just
because they were alive. It was obvious
that most people I met loved God and
put their faith and life in His hands.”
Matt returned in 2019, joining his two
oldest children, Matthew and Ellie, for a
second visit.
Mary sees the difference it made
in her family’s life. “Serving in Rwanda
transformed my two children and
husband. The story of Rwanda is almost
unbelievable. It is the ultimate story of
redemption. The ultimate comeback.
Anyone who goes leaves a piece of their
heart there.”
As a family driven by faith, the
Coopers chose to become Hope Angels
through the Kugaba Initiative. Today, they
are investing in the lives of two Hope
Haven students, Fiona and Hirtie.
“Hope Haven is so worthy and is
100 percent the most comprehensive
sponsorship program we have
experienced,” says Mary. “The fact that
Hope Haven executes education with
such high standards makes us feel great
about giving. My heart soars knowing
that the foundation for compassion,
empathy, serving with love and
generosity is being laid!”
The entire Cooper family has chosen
to join God’s work in both Rwanda and
the United States. Three out of nine
members of their family have served on
the ground in Rwanda and the other six
are working to support the school from
the United States.
For example, last October, cries
of joy filled the Cooper home as they hosted a Hope Haven-focused children’s
holiday party. They arranged the event to
share the story of Hope Haven Rwanda
with friends and neighbors. This is one
creative way the Coopers invite others
to join the transformation.
The Cooper family beautifully models
the joy that comes when we respond to
God’s call to serve with humility—when
we stretch ourselves to help others.
They are a better family because of it.
That is a no-brainer!
Giving? It’s a “No-Brainer”
Hope Haven is 100
percent the most
comprehensive
sponsorship program
we have experienced.
Matt and Mary Cooper, with their seven children,
at the Hope Haven party they organized.
19 | COME TOGETHER
We Are Together: Turikumwe
THE KINYARWANDA WORD, TURIKUMWE, means “we are together.” As we work toward a shared vision, we are together. As we roll up our sleeves in service, we are together.
May this word remind each of us that we cannot do this important work alone. We desperately need relationships as we live “on mission” and express our faith in action every day. This journey of life is so much better when we take time to enjoy the company of those who travel with us!
Each year, Hope Haven School
hosts volunteer teams that show
the love, hope and truth of Jesus
Christ in action. These experiences
benefit our students and affect families in monumental ways.
One example is the Wagner
family. Since 2016, this entire family has
experienced God in profound ways
through their service at Hope Haven
Rwanda. Three generations of Wagners
have ministered on our campus.
Warren and Charlene Wagner
have watched both of their adult
children and spouses, plus three of their
grandchildren volunteer at Hope Haven.
Their granddaughter Lauren served
four years in a row. Following her stint
as a Hope Haven intern last year, Lauren
began her studies at Taylor University.
“Hope Haven transformed me in
some significant ways,” says Lauren. Her experience was so impactful that
she changed her career trajectory to
prepare for children’s ministry in the
developing world.
Rwanda’s lasting impression on
Lauren has been shaped by her
interaction with people who have few
material possessions. But they have
something else: “They are content with
their lives and so joyful,” says Lauren.
Her father, Brian, has also been
energized by what he has seen during his four visits.
“The entire community has been
transformed around this school. It is a
bright beacon of joy in a desolate place.
Hope Haven is so strategic in bathing
everything they do unabashedly in the
gospel and promoting Jesus Christ.”
Brian’s sister, Wendy, has also served at
Hope Haven along with her husband
and two childen.
Brian adds, “There is a common
thread of shared sacrifice.” The Wagners aren’t the only ones serving to support
education in the Murindi community.
“Parents must pay to send their kids
to Hope Haven for school. If they can’t
afford to, they can work on the campus
in exchange for tuition fees and access
to resources. That cultivates pride of
ownership and skills training.”
Warren Wagner says, “What
touched me most at Hope Haven were
the students. They were eager to be
there and eager to learn.”
JACKSON FARMAR is a Hope Angel
who sponsors a student at Hope Haven
School. He has also served at Hope Haven
School for the last three summers. In 2020,
he will be joined by his mother for her
first-ever visit to Rwanda.
Jackson first visited as a high schooler and was deeply touched by the people
of Rwanda. Now a pre-med student
at Baylor University, Jackson wants to
become a physician who practices in
developing countries.
Are you ready to take the next step to
create a lasting connection between you
and a student at Hope Haven Rwanda?
Through our Kugaba Initiative, you can
become a Hope Angel by sponsoring
a student. And, if God is calling you to
serve at Hope Haven Rwanda too, we’d
love to host you! Simply send us an
email: [email protected].
YOU C AN BECOME AN ANGEL–REALLY!
Three Generations Serving Together: The Wagner Family
20 | HOPE HAVEN RWANDA
Lifting Up the Entire Community
HOPE ANGELS FRASER AND KIM COLLINS have seen the
miracle of Hope Haven firsthand. After serving in Rwanda as a couple in 2018, they have already booked flights to return. This time, their two
daughters, Rachael and Grace, will join them.
“I am beside myself to have the opportunity to serve the Hope Haven
community again, especially as a family,” says Kim. “What attracted us first was the impact on the kids—reading, writing, speaking English. Then we saw the impact on
the parents. Now, after watching Hope Haven grow for years, we can see the way
it has lifted up the entire community. That is why we give.”
Fraser and Kim Collins with a group
of children in our village, including all
five of their sponsored children.
I am beside
myself to have
the opportunity
to serve the Hope
Haven community
again, especially
as a family.
21 | COME TOGETHER
I love how many of my Rwandan family members are
able to maintain their joy in the midst of very difficult circumstances. They prove the power of a familiar
acronym for J.O.Y. – Jesus, Others, You.
The Apostle Paul suffered much in this life and was
eventually beheaded. In Acts 20:24, he wrote, “But none of
these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so
that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the
grace of God.”
As Rwandan believers smile, their confidence, determination and eternal perspective shines through their
eyes. Their joy is not shaken. In fact, I would argue that their
joy is deeper because of their intimacy with Jesus through the
harrowing ordeals they have experienced.
Are you struggling with a loss of joy this season? Joy eludes
us when we focus on circumstances and challenges, instead of
on the Miracle Maker.
Scripture dares us to “ fix our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart” Hebrews 12:2-3.
Remember the formula for joy: Jesus, Others, You.
Jason Peters
CEO
As Rwandan believers
smile, their confidence,
determination and eternal
perspective shines through
their eyes.
J.O.Y.
22 | HOPE HAVEN RWANDA
Visit Hope Haven RwandaYou can use your education, experience, and skills to help make a difference in the lives of our staff, faculty, students and families. Opportunities exist for individuals, families, church groups and medical/dental professionals.
As a volunteer you will be able to experience the transformation that is happening firsthand and to be the feet of Jesus, demonstrating His love in Rwanda.
HopeHavenRwanda.org/Volunteer
Take ActionThere are many ways to show support at home. Invite your friends and family to a special dinner at your home to learn about Hope Haven Rwanda.
HopeHavenRwanda.org/TakeAction
Growing by Faith The story of our ministry since day one is the same story we want for our students: Growing by Faith. That’s why we are taking bold steps to expand the school campus and capacity of Hope Haven Rwanda.
HopeHavenRwanda.org/Donate
Demonstrate Love, Commitment and HopeIf you have an existing special connection with a student or would like to start one, learn how through the Kugaba Initiative. This program is a practical way you can create a lasting connection with a student at Hope Haven Rwanda. Sponsoring a student takes care of 85% of our operating budget and is a great way to invest in a student’s future.
HopeHavenRwanda.org/Kugaba
ENGAGE INVEST
Hope Angel
Christine Mastin
visits her Kugaba
student, Ciara.
Sponsor NowSponsor Now Sponsor Now Sponsor Now
Create a fundraiser in lieu of a special day. Whether your goal is to raise $100 or $1,000,000, every donation received is a gift in support of our students and programs.
The ripple effects of COVID-19 are creating added hardship for our Rwandan families. Recovery is a journey we cannot foresee, so we urge you to stay in touch and take action as we alert you to the most pressing needs.
HopeHavenRwanda.org/Pandemic
23 | COME TOGETHER
What Is God Calling Us to Do?
As I consider the incredible things happening in Rwanda—thanks to God at work through people like us—please allow me to share a few things that I have been reflecting on.
God is good. All the time. Hope Haven Rwanda has overcome some significant obstacles over the years. In a way, this is no surprise, because we all face
challenges that only God can help us with. I have learned to be
grateful for everything.
I am learning that God wants our full trust. He has shown
me many times that He is in control. For example, I have met
just the right people at the right time to help fulfill God’s plans for Hope Haven. Some people that I needed to know later,
I met during what I considered to be the “worst of times.” God
is always good, but we don’t always know His plans.
Love your neighbor as yourself. Our neighbors are people in all parts of the world. These
neighbors have the same needs and desires that we do.
They are hungry. They want to succeed. They love their kids.
They are hurting mentally and physically. They want to
experience an education.
This world is a big place, and I am confident that God places people in front of us that He would like for us to help and
become a friend to. And, God gives us the power to do His
work here on earth. I didn’t realize that I could ask God for help until about 15 years ago. I have been reminded many times that
prayer and surrender are the keys.
Say “yes.”As I reflect on the important lessons in my life, I am reminded how saying “yes” has changed the lives of others and has filled me with joy and blessing!
You could say “yes” to visiting Hope Haven and serving
the “least of these”—the ones in need, as Jesus talks about in
Matthew 25. These neighbors are people like you and me who
were born in a different context. The experience of serving in
Rwanda is incomparable. You must see it to believe it!
You could say “yes” to joy and forgiveness. Rwanda and
its people prove we can greet every day with joy and live in
forgiveness. It is such a freeing way to live!
This world is our village, and we all have a part to play.
What’s yours?
Help build a high school.Stretch yourself and give to our new high school campus. We
are raising $6.4 million to accomplish this goal.
Because nobody will reach their potential with a 6th-grade
education. Imagine what you would be missing without the
education you have received. Open the doors of opportunity
for Rwandan students, like your parents did for you, and like you
would do for your own children.
Education is the top priority in Rwanda’s strategic 2050
plan. Yet, today, the system is desperately lacking classroom seats
and outstanding teachers. Help Hope Haven raise up a new
generation of teachers, engineers, doctors, lawyers, presidents
and civil servants by helping us build a new campus.
Invest in students and families.Kugaba is the Kinyarwandan word that means “to give or to
invest.” Our Kugaba Initiative lets you enter into a sponsor
relationship with a student like Deborah, Stephen or Sam, and
get to know a mom like Solange! By giving to Hope Haven, you
give people exactly what our name promises: a haven of hope!
It’s absolutely amazing what $4 per day can do. For each student at Hope Haven School, our entire comprehensive
program costs only $125 per month or $1,500 per year. You can
sign up to be a Hope Angel today.
As we come together, let’s remember that God is good,
all the time! His goodness shines through us. We are the hands
and feet of Jesus, and I am grateful for the opportunity to serve
alongside you.
Susan Hollern
Founder & President
“ In everything give thanks;
for this is God’s will for you
in Christ Jesus.”
1 THESSALONIANS 5:18
The Hope Haven Charitable Trust
2417 N. Perry Park Road, Sedalia, CO 80135
HopeHavenRwanda.org
The Kugaba Initiative is a unique sponsorship program, designed to create a lasting connection between you and a student at Hope Haven Rwanda.
Kugaba means to give in a way that creates lasting benefit. And that’s what happens when you sponsor a student.
Your monthly donation of $125 creates positive, life-changing benefits to your student through:
• Nutritious meals and clean water• Excellent academic and discipleship programs• Interactive learning with computer and science labs• A unique earning-and-learning model that provides jobs to parents
• Much more!
And every day, our dedicated faculty, staff, and volunteers actively demonstrate the love, hope and truth of Jesus Christ.
Sponsoring a student is truly a gift that can last a lifetime.
Visit HopeHavenRwanda.org/Kugaba to become a Hope Angel today!
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