Lee Students Update Missions Project in Liberia
In 2016, Lee University’s annual Missions Week promoted the Liberia Sustainable Freedom Project. Well-prepared Lee University students committed to continuing service to the Church of God Phebe Grey Orphanage in Paynesville, Liberia.
During a recent return trip, a Child Trauma Workshop was conducted and included 33 people—23 teachers and 10 staff members. Faculty at the school have no more than two years of formal training, and the subjects of post-traumatic stress and child sexual abuse are seldom, if ever, discussed.
A computer lab (10 computers) was set up last year equipped with computer bags and long-life batteries. An additional six computers were delivered on this trip, and monies from Lee Missions Week purchased Microsoft Office. This year, a router was installed which provides Wi-Fi.
The cost for the router and the monthly service will be funded for a year by Lee U. A generator supplies electricity for the lab. Ten extra computers are being refurbished for delivery shortly.
The six-member team also took 600 lbs. of equipment and supplies for the science lab. Phebe Grey staff had prepared a room in the basement of a would-be church, designating it for installation of the equipment. Computer desks and storage cabinets were built, as well.
Something extraordinary to this year’s trip was the flute playing of Jose Ruiz. Involving the children in his music brought great energy and a new dimension. Jose’s ability to make music happen in any space, his willingness to be flexible and creative, and his great talent made him an invaluable member of the team.
Two on-site librarians had stocked a useful library for the school with the 700 books donated on a prior trip. In addition, more books (300) were supplied, making the collection that exceeds 1000 volumes. The library has become a central part of the campus.
Of course, no educational program is complete without a scholarship provision. Nine Phebe Grey residents attended college this past scholastic year with funds provided by Lee U.
Envisioned for next year is to offer five two-week workshops for the children, so they will have an activity to do after school is out.
Team leader, Lee U. director of Faculty Development and Professor of English, Dr. Carolyn Dirksen, had this to say: “What I love about this project is that the Liberians have totally taken charge of it, so I believe it will be sustainable. At some point, the computers will begin to wear out, but we can develop a replacement plan. In the meantime, they have developed a wonderful, workable curriculum, and have someone dedicated and well-trained people to administer the program.”
To partner with Lee University and Church of God World Missions through online giving, please designate Project #102-9402. Please visit www.cogwm.org.
