Demolished Hut

Your Help is Needed Now!

by Fundraisers

Summer Greetings!

This has been an enormously expansive year for our music programs here, and an extremely challenging time to continue our Nhimbe for Progress services in Zimbabwe. It has taken me months to get my brain around how to share the details, as we were hit every couple of weeks with another problem. Some of these hardships are the same as we face here, like increased cost of gas and goods, for example, without wage increases, so you are well aware.

To keep the school open, repairs weigh-in heavy. Much of this maintenance has been a combined result of incredibly difficult weather along with being the first buildings from 2002 forward. Let’s start with the kitchen where the daily meals are prepared.

Roof Partial

Maybe you remember from our year-end letter that the government regulations have tightened, and they do not want the children to use the large hut with divided rooms, but to have separate classrooms for each age. Our solution was to move the library into the large hut, giving the new books expansion we were planning, and use one of the huts we had built for a library, as one classroom. And then, use the old original library, a rather smallish building, as the 3rd classroom. That seems to have resolved the regulatory issue, but suddenly the roof began leaking as the weather was pounding…see the upper area on the top right…way too much water coming in for books or students!

That all seemed workable but there was a hole at the top of the large hut (divided rooms for the new library), also letting in far too much water. I know, you are thinking “why not use asbestos tiles, instead all of this thatch?” ha.

THAT BRIGHT WHITE AREA IS SUNLIGHT!

Well, if that wasn’t enough, there was a toilet needing constructed. No pictures, but it needs to be replaced by the traditional Blair-style rural pit toilet. Muda and I have discussed other options, but nothing yet is possible.

All of this building maintenance totaled almost $3,600, which when unexpected, has hit our annual budget hard. Normally we have little issues here and there, but this was torrential. Additionally, when we proceeded to paint the tops of the wells, we found 60 of them (out of the 156) which were seriously damaged and couldn’t be painted, so that added in for another $1,000 plus.

On a very positive note, we have not dropped a beat in providing services! With an ever-increasing demand for the Mhandara Monthly Care program (MMC), over 435 girls have received supplies this year. The local Nhimbe girls receive music instruction, as well as meeting weekly for sewing and teen guidance, and everyone, particularly the parents and community leaders, are so very grateful.

Children with Green Baskets
Adults

Magaya family hosted many guests from all over the world who were able to visit our Center!

Additionally, we are keeping the Nhimbe preschool in full operation despite the major repair issues. Over 75 children gather to be fed, educated, and nurtured at the Community Center during all school sessions January to December. To top all of this off, we were able to build 6 additional wells this year (please, be patient about receiving your pictures – just know that everyone is enjoying the fruits of your donation for their daily water!)

We are hoping that you have something in your budget to contribute to our programs during this particularly challenging time of raising over $4,600. Hopefully you can see how it’s been difficult to put words to the onslaught of reports … I don’t want to be a doom and gloom announcer as it takes everything in our power to stay in a positive vibe during the changes on our planet. Here is to staying optimistic, on the front edge of the beat, and holding a vision of everyone having the basics!

We will be at Zimfest sharing what we have, August 3rd through 6th in Corvallis at OSU, and we hope to see you there…buying an item or two certainly makes a difference to our fundraising as well! Days and nights of music as well as classes, all including many Zimbabweans who have been able to get their visas. Please come say hello!

Thank you for your continued support in handling these extreme circumstances! For us, that $4.6k is a chunk o’ change. The funding to accomplish all of this is rooted in your generosity! We also do our best to raise money for the Zimbabwe programs by teaching the music here, and performing with three different ensembles around the mid-valley, for public and private events… check out the venues. We do have new beginning classes in Corvallis now, as well as for our ongoing evolving groups since 1993. If you are interested in learning to play, or have an opportunity for us to share the music, please reach out!

We appreciate all that you are, and all that you do! Thank you for joining with us in helping our Zimbabwean neighbors during this time! 

Children with Alphabet Pic

Warm Winter Greetings from Lacomb, Oregon!

by Fundraisers

We are very happy to share our annual letter with you – click here!  Although later than usual, its still packed with a great update from the President of Ancient Ways, our Nhimbe team in Zimbabwe, and an exclusive report from our office here!  Many thanks to those of you who were already able to reach out with a donation. Whatever you can do, is appreciated!

Please take a minute to relax and enjoy the stories, the pictures, and videos in the letter.  Also, in less than 5 minutes, you can watch a 2022 recap and overview of our current focus, by clicking here.  Not as quick as the 3-minute elevator speech, one is supposed to have, but fairly close ;*))

On the website, our 2023 Focus has many ideas about how to get involved and what you might do to have the largest impact… please check it out.

There are still a few days left before the end of the year, to make your fully tax-deductible donation.  Please find your way to the website to see what inspires you!  And, always feel free to reach out by phone, email or text.  All receipts will be sent out soon after the end of the year, although most have already been sent for the year…let us know so we can see when we sent it, if it doesn’t surface.

Thank you very much for your time and attention!  And, thanks to all of you who found some great Zimbabwean gifts on the Marketplace supporting the artists!

As always, Tatenda Chaizvo! 

Jaiaen 

2021 Year End Gratitude!

by FundraisersProject UpdatesWells

Thank you again for the continued support of Nhimbe for Progress through your positive thoughts, encouraging words and your generous donations, all of which have a direct affect on the future of the Mhondoro residents!

2021 is almost over and there is still time for fully tax-deductible donations. I’m moved on a regular basis by the larger spiritual backing, which keeps this all moving forward, because you and I, by ourselves, are not the bigger agenda.  When I’m troubled and can’t see the way forward, I keep turning it back to them, the Allies, whether that is all of our ancestors, the angels, the forces of Large Love emanating through God, or whatever (I work at not limiting this unlimited and indescribable grace). I remind them that they started this work, and they are responsible to keep it moving along nicely!  Its easy to get overwrought with concern when I put myself in someone else’s shoes, so just need to keep redirecting to clarify what is actually involved in transformation and change.  We just each do our part!

One of the incredible feats this year (among many) was your response when the villages were impacted by Cyclone Eloise.  At first, we thought we just needed to repair the Community Center so that school, MMC and other activities could continue.  But then, we realized that 22 families lost their wells due to the continued storms and pounding rain.  Through your assistance we were able to rebuild these wells in short order.  This is something great that ripples…it’s not just that they can get water for daily activities, but the health of each family member feels this lifestyle change.  Thank you for all the ways you contribute…Tatenda Chaizvo.

Isaac has introduced us to this resident whose family has benefited from Nhimbe for Progress services in Mhondoro, Zimbabwe since the beginning of our work there. Ancient Ways began this project in 2000, and has provided many programs to uplift the people since then.  In this video Tafanei Nyamainashe, from the Gore village, is explaining in Shona that he wants to thank Nhimbe for all of the assistance. His family started receiving help when huts were being built, school fees being paid for the children, along with uniforms for the students, and now, he has a well.  He wants to thank Nhimbe, and says “may you continue assisting us all!” 

We all appreciate that sentiment!  Thank you again for how you contribute to their lives, and to my life enriching the work into which I’ve chosen to put my creativity and Large Love.  I hope you know that thousands of people are all blessed by your generosity of spirit.  Each village resident’s life is enhanced in untold ways, which touches all of their extended family members throughout Zimbabwe and other places in the world. Watch for stories about these families, coming in 2022.

If you haven’t read the annual letters, here is a link to get you started, and if you haven’t yet donated  please feel free here!  Thank you all so much and have a wonderful and safe new year!

Preschool Graduates for Nhimbe 2021

by FundraisersYouth Well Being

Hoping you and yours are having a wonderful holiday season! 

If you haven’t checked out the last email from us, please do so now as it links you to all of the annual letter information!  Fully deductible donations can be made for 2021. Thank you to those who are reaching out during this busy time of year.  You do make the difference!  

Nhimbe for Progress Preschool is going into its 20th year and has been profoundly successful over the course of many challenges.  This year we found 37 preschoolers graduated, which is up from an average of 25, due to the convoluted school years since the beginning of Covid-19.  Many stops and starts have these children now ready to move on, ready for grade 1 at the schools nearby their homes. 

Boys and girls, by themselves, or with mother, or father, sharing in this big day!

We serve many surrounding villages beyond the core six that are primary to Nhimbe.  Any child who can get to our facilities is allowed to attend.  This may mean that the parents walk the child to and from school each morning and afternoon.  We are very grateful to be able to assist the entire population in the area with these services…and all because of your support!

The children always share what they are learning!

Here the child has a speech to give.

After introducing themselves, these three have a little dancing and singing routine to offer.

This next video feels very connected to the metaphoric nature of the culture and their language…Very creative story line about someone who has been mugged, and the good Samaritan who helps them get care.  The Shona children are always giving plays.

Another two children, each with demonstrated ability to share in public…very sweet. 

Fortunate Takaendesa has been at our school for many years.  She leads the children in much singing and dancing and does a great job.  Here she leads the children in reciting.  This video also gives an idea of the attendance, with parents on the ground, and the visiting official guests under the tent.  There was much competition this year for attendance, due to farming inputs being unexpectedly distributed by the government at the same time.

Isaac Maodzeka is our Building and Security manager.  Although he doesn’t work within the preschool program, he is always around supporting all activities.  You can see the new library and marimba huts being built in some picture backgrounds and it is his job to oversee that, as well as all well building.  He is here on behalf of the team, cheering them all on!

Febby Shava has been with us for 20 years as the head of the Nhimbe preschool.  Last year she also joined the ranks as the co-director of Nhimbe for Progress, handling all of the children and parent communication and support. She is doing a great job! Here she is encouraging the parents and emphasizing the foundational importance of early childhood development.  If you listen closely, you will hear her say “ECD” more than once.

Hope you have enjoyed the Nhimbe Preschool graduation story for 2021. This year, it has taken much more effort for them to send videos and pictures. There has been a combination of increased network difficulties due to the cyclone damage, continuing family business since Cosmas’ passing, as well as the normal challenges of working in rural Zimbabwe. For anyone who has been camping, you get the idea of what daily life entails. Rough, but doable ;*))

Thank you again for your ongoing support! Please click here to go to the website for immediate gratification!  We are doing our best to support them through some of the most intense times in their history.  Its because of you that we are able to do that!  Tatenda Chaizvo from all of those involved!

Your Annual Ancient Ways Letter is in your Inbox!

by Fundraisers

We are happy to share our annual report with you for 2021, as well as our plans for 2022. 

Many thanks to all of you who are part of the incredible team, which makes this wheel of progress move…We, throughout North America, and those in Zimbabwe, are so appreciative!

Please take a moment and catch up on the latest about our collaboration with the residents in Mhondoro.  If you need to come back another time to read in more depth, you can also go to the website and find “2022 Focus” on the menu bar.  Let us know if you would like hard copies to share – we have plenty available.  Our printer gave us a spectacular deal at 5 cents a page!  

With your help, we can do it!  It does take a village to raise a child, and a community to hold a vision for change and transformation.  You do make the difference!

Thank you for your time and attention.  Always feel free to reach out and talk to me about whatever is on your mind.  Be safe. Be well.  And, have a wonderful holiday season!

Jaiaen

Many Thanks for the Aid!

by Fundraisers

From the Nhimbe volunteers on the ground, to our board, and all involved, we are enormously grateful for the rapid response to our plea!

You have softened the blow of this harsh reality for them.  And of course, a lower stress level will certainly ripple into better care of the preschoolers and MMC youth, as well as the Community Center itself and how they provide services to the region.  Your generosity is amazing and has calculated out to give us the capacity to provide all 11 volunteers plus our two directors with one bucket a week from November 17th, next week, to carry them to the end of March!

Photo Credit-Lynne Swift

That implementation schedule is based on being able to locally source the maize at $6 a bucket, so purchasing without having to use petrol, and getting a better price for the bulk buy. We hope it unfolds in that manner, since working in Zimbabwe always brings surprises.

Green mealies will be coming by mid-March, which doesn’t sustain like sadza but is truly delicious with a touch of lime and salt.  The real maize will be coming out of the field in June, and we hope for a bountiful harvest for all. That crop carries them until 2023!

As always, you are incredible.  And, if some of you were still considering donating and are just a little slower to do so, please do so now! Go to: Volunteer’s Food Aid under 2021 and Early 2022 Urgency. – any further funds can be put towards extending the date, for example, another week or more?  In Zimbabwe, this kind of assistance means a great deal.  Their government will not be providing food, in all likelihood.  They are currently providing villagers some farming “inputs” as two bags of fertilizer and 20 kg of seed, at least in our local area.

Muda says, “A big thank you on behalf of the Mhondoro Nhimbe community to all who are assisting during this difficult period globally. Your love is most appreciated. May the spirits continue to guide you and your families in all you do. Tatenda chaizvo for all the Benevolence!!!!”

His heart-felt appreciation was felt through the network waves as he spoke from the other side of the earth.  Not only knowing that this side of the planet cares, I’m also imagining him having relief as the co-director, that those he is obligated to look out for will be in a better way, and that everything turns out okay, when one has the courage to speak. You can know that I’m relieved as well.  ;*))

This is the real-meal-deal and you are truly making a difference!  Tatenda Chaizvo! We thank you very much!

Food Aid for Nhimbe Volunteers!

by Fundraisers

(We’re sorry for the mis-post last night…working out the MailChimp interface ;*))

Today the villagers are facing another unusual hardship.  Due to the heavy rains last year at this time, as well as the pelting storms of Cyclone Eloise January 2021, crops were destroyed.  This translates into the average resident being unable to feed their families without purchasing maize, which costs around $6-7 per bucket.  A normal family uses about 1 bucket a week as it is the Zimbabwean staple.  In 4 months, by March/April (their autumn), they can harvest what they call “green mealies”, which is close to our corn-on-the-cob.  Those once left in the field become maize.

Photo Credit-Lynne Swift

The volunteers at Nhimbe are committed to spend more than half their day working at the Center, and so they really have no alternative income sources. They are given a stipend for their time. Other local residents can work their fields, sew, build and then barter.  Don’t get me wrong, our people are always busy looking for ways to make ends meet!  This food shortage has just stretched the proverbial rubber band beyond safety zones.

If you are able to donate even $25-30, that amount would sustain a family for 1 month.  Our goal is specifically to supplement this situation for those who are working at Nhimbe, due to their dedicated daytime hours, hence their outside available time is restricted.  $100 would take one of our volunteers through the hardest months.  We have 11 volunteer staff not counting our co-directors, Febby and Muda. That makes our minimum goal $1,100.

This is a rock-and-a-hard-place for us to request this aid, because our annual letter is forthcoming, just around the corner, where we share our 2021 progress as well as our hopes and budget for next year.  I ask that if you are limited on funds to offer at this time, please make our 2022 operations your priority.  And, if you can contribute something for this food shortage dilemma, we will send you a photo of the family you have sponsored! Please do so now! Go to: Volunteer’s Food Aid under 2021 and Early 2022 Urgency.

I know that this is an untimely request.  Our mission isn’t normally the same as famine relief organizations.  We have crossed that line in the sand three times in 20-plus years, twice with a variety of foods during famine, and once with mahewu, a maize-based drink for the children during a long drought.

We are looking to you for solutions – whatever is donated under this special food relief link (above) will determine their next 4 months.  Our coffers are at their lowest this time of year, just before we reach out again with next year’s plans.  We hope some of you have something extra to contribute, even $10.

My friends and family, as well as the folks on the ground there, are giving me courage to reach out to you today under these distressing circumstances.  And, I’m sure that with all of us, we will be able to make a difference!

Thank you again for your time reading this, and for whatever way you can help out!  Many blessings your way!

Many Thanks to Your Generosity!

by FundraisersProject Updates

Since we were awarded additional Community Center land by Chief Nherera, we are now blessed to have a space for the children’s outside activities. We knew it would cost $6,400 to cover the fence and equipment for this space, and now with only just over $300 we will have met the goal! Thank you!

I am amazed and touched by how you have come through for us, time and time again! The wild fire was so unexpected and left us all with our heads spinning…we’ve never had such a challenge before. Everyone is so grateful that we are on the mend!

Rolls and rolls…

If you were hoping to help us with this, now is a great time. We have allocated all unexpected funds received since the fire, which were identified as “greatest need” or specifically for the preschool, and would love to finish this fundraising step, so that our annual budget can stay firmly intact for running the regular programs.

Muda is in Mhondoro working overtime to take care of Nhimbe business as well as being with the family as they prepare for Cosmas’ special ceremony, the kurova guva, coming up next weekend. We will have more Nhimbe updates forthcoming, but for now I wanted to share our simple rolls-of-fencing photo. It’s very exciting growth!

Just prior to the fire, in our June board meeting, we had agreed to build two new huts, one for marimba, and one for the library to grow. Cement was purchased in Harare, bricks were delivered by the local donkey cart, and the foundation started. These huts were first held up by the COVID lock-down, and then by the penetrating attention that the fire had imposed.

After Cosmas’ ceremony we will be able to share more about all of the work being done, as well as get an update about the routine school and MMC activities going on with the youth and their well-being. The children and staff are both elated to be back to their educational focus…everyone there really understands that education equals empowerment. I’m a big advocate for more and complete information in every way with a vision that it would stop all war…simplistic. Thank you for your commitment as we work through the process of bringing you the latest…your support is greatly appreciated.

We are within close reach of our required target so please, if you are able, we are grateful. Either the side bar donation box, or the store link works well (we have done website repairs and are extremely happy to share that it is now a frustration-FREE operation). Accolades to our new tech volunteer from Cincinnati!

Thank you!

One More Day in 2020 to Make the Nhimbe Difference!

by FundraisersProject Updates

We are always grateful for your support in our cooperative endeavors!  At year end, as we organize for the following 12 month’s efforts, your contribution not only gets you a fully taxable donation, but also helps us with our planning.

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 Its during this time we work with our partners in Mhondoro and sketch out what they want, and what you are telling us we can do. We all very much appreciate knowing that we have your ongoing assistance in whatever way makes sense to you.  Time, money, prayers, telling our story, imagination, collaboration…it all helps!  Thank you to those who have remembered us this year…and thank you in advance for helping us pave the way forward with more than just intention!

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Here is a quick recap of what we continue to focus upon:

This is one of my favorite videos of 2020 … what a blessing this windmill has been!  The sound of the pump is like a lullaby to my ears.  I know, sounds odd, right?.  But imagine camping in the desert for years and coming upon water gushing forth from the earth and the sound of this little gadget, singing away, as the anthem. It is only because its a bore hole (rather than a well) that we have water during this multiple year drought. Looking forward to buying drip-line to finish off the newly prepared beds, putting this fountain to work!

Because of the borehole and windmill, they were able to expand the little garden.  The guards took it up as their pet project when everything starting going sideways earlier in the year.  And, they are being steadfast during their off time (each with 10 days off, 10 days on) to keep it developing.

This ambuya (grandmother) is Eflida, and the eldest of Cosmas’ siblings.  In her 70’s, her profound appreciation for walking up to a faucet is immense.  In most places in the townships, faucets are in every home, but usually outside on a sink next to the toilet room.  To have a faucet in the rural area is an amazing thing. Efilda began with Nhimbe in 2000 and continues in her original role, in charge of the comings and goings of all inventory. 

We completed the deepenings for 74 families last year and will continue on into 2021.  This family above, who just got a new well sponsored in 2019, had plenty of water to begin, but the drought continued to take its toll, and although a recent well, even they too need to deepen! It has become dire. Thank you for your help with this recognition that water is life!

This is my absolute favorite photo of all year.  It warms the cockles of my heart. I love that they are working as part of our larger team, helping a family get water by deepening a well. There is something quite touching about them working together for progress, in this way as a couple.  Granted, at the end of a long day, she most likely puts in another couple of hours handling the mealtime, etc, but then again, maybe they can afford to buy firewood instead of her gathering it, hire a maid to help at the home, and/or pay for someone to help weed the field?  In any case, who knows the whole story…I just love this photo!

We continue to engage our preschoolers with early childhood education as well as feed them with the same dedication that we began with in 2002.  Success comes in small packages. Thank you for your part of this!

We have 3 teachers outside of Nhimbe who trained with us for several of our Teen Care camps and had started their own Mhandara Monthly Care groups for their maturing girls, over the last couple of years.  They attended our distribution event in November where 45 girls received supplies.  We will continue to support these other teacher’s efforts with start-up kits and education this coming year.  This is an incredible program!  Check out what $18 can buy! Plus the Nhimbe girls are playing marimba, thanks to you!

Covid Intervention was an unexpected part of Nhimbe’s evolution in 2020.  If you haven’t looked at what was accomplished, or the why/how of it, take a peek.  Febbie Shava, the new co-director, is sharing the mask making.  She has been a large, but sometimes hidden, team player for soooo very long and now gets to step up and be even a bigger part of our successes.

These are the key people that are taking Nhimbe to new levels of achievement as we move into 2021: the well building supervisor, guards, cooks, cleaner, inventory, teachers, librarian, marimba teacher, and our new co-directors. No picture here of the man behind the curtain (in Harare instead of Oz), our 80-something-but-whose-counting accountant, who holds all the pieces together. 

We all extend you profound gratitude as we end 2020 with prayers for 2021 unfolding in grace and guidance, affording all the best that progress can offer. May the new year bring you only joy and peace!

Tatenda Chaizvo! (We thank you very much!)

Exciting News for the Mask Tribe!

by Fundraisers

Please join us as we celebrate our work in Zimbabwe for yet another year!

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An amazing assortment of new African fabrics have been donated, as well as the efforts of two lovely women volunteers with superb sewing skills and artistic love for their work. Your decision to get a mask from us brings all of this together. 

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Here we are with the holidays budding, and thoughts of sharing love buzzing…how can we help you? 

123.TGO – The Teal and Orange Medallions?

Please check out the latest in the “Store” HERE.  The new 3-D style as well as the familiar pleated and fitted designs are clearly shown and easy to navigate with the shopping cart (rather than the old google sheet that we started last spring on a whim of “oh heck, lets give it a go…;*)) 

125.OYB – Something a little more dramatic for you?

We are uploading more pictures as they are finished, and until then there are fabric swatches … you can see how incredible these turn out … please reach out with any questions.

121.LB – Some of us can’t resist the nuances of purple!

The latest news as well, is that you can request a child’s size! Just email and you’ll be in touch with the seamstress, who is adaptable and experienced with grandchildren, neighbors and the like, fitting those sweet little faces.

Thank you again for your continued support and encouragement!  All proceeds from these donations join our efforts to intervene in the lives of those in Mhondoro specifically with protocol for Covid-19.  If you haven’t yet read about our vision, HERE is the overview, and HERE is the progress to date! 

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We are all enormously grateful for your interest in our particular products and services … you choose the donation amount that fits your budget

(remember that online payments and mailing spend close to $5 of your precious contribution)

and its a bit like being a kid in a candy store…enjoy running up and down the aisle! 

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Your recurring generosity, friendship, and kindness has made all of this possible.  Tatenda Chaizvo!

PS Please watch for our annual letter in your inbox, giving you a snapshot of 2020-2021.

PPS Looking forward to pictures, video, and the story from Mhondoro? We hope so! Those on the ground are elated at what they have been able to do because of YOU!

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Candy Store?