HealthEd Connect

There is something powerful about bringing people together with a shared purpose.

Our community health volunteer team leaders from Kasompe and Luapula in Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo gathered to share program updates, discuss challenges, celebrate successes, and strengthen one another as they continue serving their communities.

We are continually inspired by the dedication of these volunteers, who faithfully improve the health and well-being of women, children, and families. Together, they are building healthier communities, strengthening local leadership, and bringing hope and healing where it is needed most.

Zamtan is abuzz with development!

The Kafwa community health volunteer team has grown, and so has the school. The Skills Center and Kafwa Hall are beautiful new facilities ready to be equipped for programming in cooking and technology studies. A new ablution block (toilet facilities) is under construction, while pavers and fresh paint provide the finishing touches that make the campus sparkle. The community is feeling happy and proud—and so are the Kafwa!

The Kafwa are the reason a community school was established here. Years ago, they identified a large number of orphans and vulnerable children who were not attending school because their families could not afford fees and supplies. Starting small, they took action. Today, the school has grown alongside the happy, thriving children who learn here every day.

The Kafwa continue to support students by preparing meals, leading an orphans support group, and facilitating the Girls Achievement Program. They also provide dignified healthcare to community members. During our visit, they proudly showed us a large garden they have cultivated to provide nutritious food for children and home-based care clients, while generating income through produce sales to sustain their work.

This is what community-led development looks like. When local leaders identify challenges, mobilize their neighbors, and commit to long-term solutions, transformation happens. Children gain access to education. Families receive healthcare and support. Communities build assets that create opportunity for generations to come.

What began with a small group of volunteers determined to help vulnerable children has grown into a thriving hub of education, health, and hope. The impact extends far beyond buildings—it is visible in the confidence of students, the dedication of volunteers, and the pride of a community creating a brighter future together.

🌍 World Health Day: Building Health From the Heart of Kathmandu 💙
In Kathmandu, where nearly 40% of families live in poverty or on the edge, access to preventive care and health education is often out of reach. But real change is happening—through trust, partnership, and community connection.
Our local volunteers in Nepal, known as Soyamsebika, have partnered with Mary Stopes Hospital, an international NGO dedicated to women's health services. to lead women’s health camps that provide education, cervical cancer screenings, reproductive health counseling, and safe spaces for honest conversation. However, they don't just provide the health camps and then leave. The Soyamsebika continue to support the community by being present and listening. A representative from Mary Stopes shared what sets the Soyamsebika apart from other volunteers - “They stay in the communities and build relationships with the people. They listen to the people and address their needs.”
This is what health equity looks like: healthcare rooted in trust, strengthened by collaboration, and sustained by local leaders.
Yesterday was World Health Day. On this day we celebrate the volunteers, partners, and communities working together to make health accessible to all.
💛 Together, we move closer to a future where everyone has the opportunity to live a healthy life.
To read more about this story and others, visit www.healthedconnect.org
’sHealth