Why do we want to work with AFOD?

Aid for Orphans and the Disabled (AFOD) is based in Bundung Borehole on the outskirts of Serrekunda, the largest conurbation in the Gambia.

The charity’s aims are to address the social needs of orphaned children and disabled people in the area. With very little statutory support for these people like we have in the UK, their plight is very much in the hands of other people in the community, but unfortunately prejudice and stigma remains high.

A recent survey carried out by AFOD has shown that in their own local community alone there are nearly 1000 people who are orphaned children or disabled. Some of the greatest challenges are concerned with:

• Education - most orphaned children and disabled people miss out on educational opportunities not because of academic reasons, but because of financial reasons: they cannot afford fees, transport to school, books, uniform and shoes. With very few practical skills, they quite often become street beggars with no hope for a future

• Nutrition - many orphaned and disabled children experience a very limited diet. Research has shown that many such children only have one meal a day, consequently they are at greater risk of other illnesses and early death

• Health - in addition to AIDS, other illnesses like malaria, severe headaches, stomach problems and fevers are rife especially amongst AFOD’s target groups. Medicines are expensive and many orphaned children and disabled people simply cannot get to health centres because they cannot afford transport costs.

No doubt just like us, you are bombarded with appeal letters from dozens of very worthwhile charities. I have to admit that when AFOD's Chief Executive, Lamin Fofanah first got in touch with the Enfys Acumen by subscribing to our eCommunity, I did wonder what was going on and had to stop and think carefully before I responded.

At the Enfys Acumen we are supporting a number of charities in the UK, both with pro bono professional services and as volunteers and donors, so what is special about AFOD?

What has really attracted us to support AFOD is that it was formed and is led by young people who are working together to try to improve quality of life in their community.

Their passion for wanting to make a difference is so encouraging and equally important is that they are not really looking for handouts, but rather the help to develop their skills and resources to move from dreaming to action.

They want to be in a position to improve their lot themselves. Coaching people like this is just the kind of work we relish the most.