Spotlight: Ivorian Hope Inc.

If you have seen a shirt that reads "I ♥ Africa" then you have seen the work of Ivorian Hope. Founded in 2003 after the civil war in Ivory Coast, Ivorian Hope is a non-profit organization that works to rebuild infrastructure, help rural areas through a micro-credit/cooperative program, and support education through scholarships. This non-profit organization is run by two ADC alum and recent graduates of Towson University, Princess Boa and Nicole Damiba.

Ivorian Hope's vision is to provide people with opportunities, locally and internationally, to become interdependent yet self-sufficient. Today the organization has positively affected the country in several ways; they have distributed food to over 2000 families, donated 400lbs of clothing and vitamins in conjunction with an Ivorian-based organization known as CARITAS. They have also developed a micro-credit program which encourages self sufficiency by lending money to villagers in rural areas. Thus far, Ivorian Hope has touched bases with over 500 war victims and has worked to obtain more UN Peacekeepers in Cote d'Ivoire. While, the organization's focus is on Ivory Coast and Africa, their good deeds are done locally as they donated to the Boys and Girls Club and the House of Ruth Women's shelter here in the U.S. Ivorian Hope also offers a scholarship to a high-school senior who discusses an African issue.

With their dedication to their homeland, love for humankind, and awareness of the need for innovation, these two young ladies possess the ability to execute countless goals and objectives and are dedicated to grassroots changes and improving relations between the United States and Africa. As these two young ladies believe in redefining methods of international development, they are constantly thinking outside of the box and refuse to limit themselves. It is their hope that this organization will serve as a catalyst for change. Above all, they love what they do. ADC will be working closely with Ivorian Hope throughout the semester so be on the lookout for activities in the near future.

The "I ♥ Africa" shirts are sold at local events and can be found on their website. Check them out at IvorianHope.org.