Loving children (part one)

Something happened on Easter weekend that refuelled my optimism and renewed my faith in what we are capable of as a people when we join hands to make the difference. On that unforgettable Saturday, the Happy Times Dormitory was opened, and officially became the home of 210 orphans and vulnerable children in Luwero District.

It is amazing that the dormitory was exclusively built through the small but selfless efforts of mostly young people determined to be the change they want to see in the world. The campaign to build this dorm started virtually on Facebook headed by E-star Kalenzi and her team at 40 Days Over 40 Smiles Foundation when they asked us to “chip in” with a bag of cement, a window, a brick – whatever you could afford, however little – it was most welcome. And when these 'little efforts' combined, with love at the centre of it all, great things began to happen! Over 44 bags of cement and other building materials were collected worth over 26 million shillings. 

I feel lucky and fulfilled to have been part of the ‘little efforts’ that led to a life-transforming achievement. The dormitory, as that remarkable lady E-star observed, is now proof that together, each one contributing as little as they can, we can make a difference our communities. 

What makes it special is that those children who had no comfortable place of abode now will not only feel a sense of belonging but will also subconsciously be inspired to believe in the generosity and kindness of fellow man, and aspire to do better as they grow up. Remember children make up 100 percent of the world's future, so when they are helped and loved today, they will find it in their hearts to help and love too; they will grow up better people, thus guaranteeing a better future.