Our very own Dr Joy Ngobi updated us on the Hope Institute of Uganda and Jinja Jewelry Fair Trade Gift Shop (1260 Milton Ave) . In 2008, Joy and her husband Guideon established a non profit to realize a dream of educating and improving the lives of people in Uganda. Have you read the history on our website? Uganda's population of 40 million has 78% under the age of 30, pre K School enrollment of 13.8%, a drop out rate of 28%, the unemployment rate is 63-84% and 83.5%  live on less than $1.25 a day. Despite these sobering statistics, the Hope Institute has conducted many medical mission trips and built a School that has grown from 18 to 80 Students. During this annual update, Joy talked about the goal to add a third classroom, build a guest house so the mission groups have a comfortable bed to sleep in after long work days, and continue to train leaders who can create future jobs in the area. The cost will be around 100 K and they currently have around 20, primarily from sales of her book, Hope for Joy, and proceeds from Jinja Jewelry. The Run for Hope event has been held in MN for 2 years and in WI for 4, and this year in Uganda on 8.18 and has helped raise funds. She talked about starting a chicken farm which will be a source of income and nuitrition. The challenges they face are advocacy, no paid employees, lack of mentors, and money- though she believes money follows a vision and her vision for the future of Hope Institute is strong. How can you help? You can purchase her book, support Jinja Jewelry (hours 10-5) buy purchasing the beautiful crafts that support women in Uganda, share your skill sets with them, and lots of prayer. The next mission trip is scheduled for February 2019 and they hope to get the additional classroom built.