"Leadership In Action Award" Winner!
Bend resident and college student, Malerie Pratt, decided to use her
summer vacation to learn first-hand about the economic and political
struggles in Africa. Volunteering at a Zambian nutrition center, her
three month stay turned into six, as well as a life-long commitment to
help orphaned children.
During her first work stay, Pratt was inspired by social worker and
visionary, Violet Membe. The pair recognized that nutritional meals
were just the first step toward a child's recovery. Their discussions
lead to a shared goal -- to build normal Zambian home environments
for orphaned children.
In 2005 Malerie returned to Bend, Oregon where she began recruiting
support for her project. Next she established a nonprofit organization
for fund-raising and began her outreach. The result is Vima Lupwa
Homes. And on December 16, 2006 Pratt and Membe officially opened the
first home. It was also Pratt's 21st birthday.
Through public support, Vima Lupwa provides proper nutrition,
clothes, bedding, education, health care and, most importantly, love
and nurturing by Violet Membe and her husband, Mwala. The goal now is
to create an environment where the family is self-sufficient --
including growing their own food and working a small business. Here
the children will learn the life skills needed to succeed and, as
adults, to productively participate in Zambian society.
The message Malerie brings to us? Everyone -- every one -- can make
a difference. No matter how small the effort, it is the act -- the
action -- that matters. Whatever the challenge or the goal is, the
essential factor is acting on one's values. Today, Malerie is
continuing her education with the ambition of becoming a physician
specializing in women's and children's care. She is doing
this while continuing her work for Vima Lupa Homes.
Vima Luwpa Homes is a 501c(3) tax-exempt organization. The group
guarantees that 100% of all donations will be used for the project. If
you would like to make a donation, please send a check to the address
below. If you would like a tax-deductible receipt, please provide your
name and address.
VIMA LUPWA HOMES 1550 NE Galveston Bend, OR 97701. Thank you for your support!
