HISTORY
in August of 2007, when we traveled to Zimbabwe we had no idea what to expect. It was our first time to Africa and our first mission type trip. On one of the first days we were there, we were taken on a visit to a feeding center that had been functional for about a year. This gave us an idea of what we were going to be building and the impact it would have on the community.
We learned that they fed approximately 150 children one meal per day at that site. The children would go to school in the morning and then to the feeding center for lunch. While there, they would also receive biblical instruction and practical learning such as how to plant and grow a garden. Then they would play games in the afternoon.
We spent 7 of our 10 days on that first trip to Zimbabwe working on the construction of a feeding center in a rural area outside of Harare. We worked with many wonderful people, learned about their families and their lifestyle, and experienced a culture where they take care of others who are in need. Villagers would often bring others into their homes to care for even though they might not have had sufficient means to provide adequately for themselves and their own families. They also demonstrated a strong faith that continued to give them hope.
While we were working on the project The Chief of the area, along with nine of twenty nine local village heads came to watch and speak to our team at the construction site. Each one expressed their thanks and explained how the team’s presence had impact.
What makes us unique?
ZPS assesses the needs of each local community by developing relationships with leaders within the district.
During our visits each year we hold classes to increase the local entrepreneurs skills.
Submitting Project/Business Proposals
Basic Accounting
Positive Affirmations
Mentoring
Physical Activity/Sports
ZPS ensures success for each business by regular visits with a group of heartfelt volunteers that provide hands-on leadership training. The young entrepreneurs and the volunteers form a relationship that encourages resilience and hope. We do not offer a handout, but a hand up which creates self-sustaining entrepreneurs.
Angela Yablonski
Founder’s Story
When I started my first Curves, I continued to work with women who were creating stronger, healthier lives. We work with so many local community groups. I wanted to find a project that was specific for my Curves community. I learned we could build an orphanage in Zimbabwe for impoverished children for $6000, but it wasn’t an orphanage and it was not $6000. However, it was the start of the Zimbabwe Project.
Zimbabwe continues to be one of the leading countries in need of help but a country that is overlooked due to political tension.
As we live stronger, healthier lives, I have learned that giving back is the best thing we can do for ourselves.
Come on an African adventure to learn more about the incredible work that the Zimbabwe Project does. Grasp a better understanding of how the charity was created and the projects that ZPS works on. Discover how the founder followed her heart to build something that so many would benefit and grow from. Through growth, feedback and listening ZPS created sustainable development throughout the country.