True social progress requires us to reach out to all corners of society, including those often forgotten. On a bright Sunday morning, our team from Rise With Merit Association walked through the gates of Yaoundé Central Prison with a mission that went beyond charity we came with dignity, hope, and educational opportunities for individuals whose potential remains untapped behind bars.

The Power of Second Chances

Our visit was not just about distributing items and educational materials; it was about recognizing the inherent worth of every individual. We conducted mentorship sessions where incarcerated individuals shared their dreams, fears, and aspirations. Many expressed a deep desire to acquire skills that would enable them to rebuild their lives upon release.

"Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world." - Nelson Mandela

We organized skill development workshops focusing on entrepreneurship, basic computer literacy, and vocational training in tailoring and carpentry. The enthusiasm and gratitude we witnessed were profound reminders that rehabilitation through education is not just possible but essential for societal healing.

Building Bridges Through Education

Our partnership with prison authorities has established a structured program where selected inmates will receive ongoing educational support. We've set up a small library within the facility and committed to monthly visits for mentorship and skill-building sessions. The program aims to:

• Provide access to educational materials and resources
• Offer vocational training for marketable skills
• Facilitate counseling and mental health support
• Create pathways for reintegration into society
• Foster hope and purpose among incarcerated individuals

The transformative power of compassion was evident in every interaction. One inmate, who had been studying law through correspondence courses, shared how our visit renewed his determination to complete his studies and eventually help others navigate the legal system.

Looking Forward

This initiative marks the beginning of our sustained commitment to prison outreach. We believe that by extending educational opportunities to all members of society, we contribute to breaking cycles of crime and poverty while restoring dignity to those who need it most.

Our work at Yaoundé Central Prison is a testament to our belief that merit exists in every human being, waiting to be nurtured. As we continue this journey, we invite partners and volunteers to join us in creating more opportunities for transformation and healing.

Bringing Warmth to Essos: Our Holiday Mission

On a bright December morning, as Yaoundé prepared for the holiday season, our team from Rise With Merit Association embarked on a special mission to Fondation FACT Orphanage, located in the Essos Nouvelle Route Corneillet neighborhood. What began as a routine outreach activity transformed into a profound experience of shared humanity, reminding us that true compassion knows no boundaries.

The Journey to Essos Nouvelle Route

The journey to Essos took us through the bustling streets of Yaoundé, with our vehicles filled not just with supplies, but with anticipation. We carried boxes of educational materials, toiletries, clothing, nutritious food items, and perhaps most importantly he intention to create meaningful connections. Fondation FACT, though modest in its facilities, immediately struck us with its atmosphere of resilience. The orphanage, home to 45 children ranging from toddlers to teenagers, operates with limited resources but abundant heart. As we arrived, the curious faces peeking through windows quickly turned into beaming smiles as children gathered to welcome us.

Moments That Touched Our Hearts

The day unfolded in a beautiful symphony of shared activities: 1. Educational Workshops Our volunteers conducted age appropriate learning sessions. For the younger children, we organized storytelling circles where tales of hope and perseverance came alive. For older children, we facilitated discussions about dreams, education, and future aspirations. "I want to become a doctor so I can help other children who don't have parents," shared 12-year old Marie, her eyes sparkling with determination. 2. Creative Expression Through Art We set up an art station where children could paint, draw, and create. The walls of Fondation FACT soon became galleries of colorful expressions drawings of families, homes, and hopeful futures. These artworks weren't just creative outputs; they were windows into the children's hearts and minds. 3. Interactive Games and Sports The courtyard transformed into a playground of laughter as we organized games, soccer matches, and dance sessions. In these moments of play, hierarchies disappeared our volunteers became teammates, and the children became teachers of joy. 4. Personal Connection Time Perhaps the most meaningful moments came during one on one interactions. Our volunteers sat with children, listening to their stories, sharing experiences, and simply being present. These conversations revealed remarkable resilience and wisdom beyond years.

The Deeper Impact: Beyond a Single Visit

What began as a day visit has evolved into an ongoing commitment. During our interactions, we identified several areas where sustained support could make a significant difference: Educational Sponsorship: Three exceptionally bright children showed academic potential that deserves nurturing Skills Development: Teenagers expressed interest in vocational training opportunities Mental Health Support: The caregivers requested training in child psychology and trauma-informed care Infrastructure Improvement: Basic facility upgrades could dramatically improve living conditions

The Ripple Effect

The impact of our visit extended beyond the orphanage walls. Several community members from Essos Nouvelle Route approached us, expressing appreciation for our work and interest in volunteering. This organic community engagement represents the kind of sustainable impact we strive for initiatives that grow roots and involve local stakeholders..

Our Ongoing Commitment

This visit marks the beginning of a sustained partnership with Fondation FACT. We've established: Monthly visitation program: Regular visits for educational support and mentorship Sponsorship initiative: Connecting individual donors with specific children's educational needs Capacity building: Training workshops for orphanage caregivers Community linkage: Creating connections between the orphanage and local businesses for potential apprenticeships

Why This Matters

In a world often focused on metrics and scale, our day at Fondation FACT served as a powerful reminder: development is fundamentally about human connection. The children of Fondation FACT don't just need commodities they need consistency, care, and the assurance that they matter. As we drove back from Essos, the setting sun painted the Yaoundé skyline in hues of gold and orange. In that quiet moment, we realized that we hadn't just visited an orphanage we had become part of an extended family. And like all meaningful family relationships, this is just the beginning.

How You Can Help

The needs at Fondation FACT and similar institutions are ongoing. You can contribute by: Volunteering your time for future visits Sponsoring a child's education through our partnership program Donating essential supplies or funds for infrastructure improvement Sharing your professional skills through workshops or training sessions To get involved or learn more about our ongoing work with Fondation FACT, contact our Community Outreach Department at infosewithmeritassociation +237 679 742 744.