Today in Rwanda: Honoring Shari's Legacy Through Action

​Yesterday, as we marked the one-year anniversary of our founder, Shari Shelton's passing, something beautiful was happening thousands of miles away in Rugarika.

Our team didn't gather simply to remember Shari.

They gathered to continue the work she dedicated her life to.

The first act of remembrance wasn't a ceremony.

It was ensuring that vulnerable families received community health insurance.

As our staff worked alongside local leaders to process medical insurance contributions, they were reminded of what Shari believed so deeply:

"True love is expressed through action."

That belief continues to guide everything GIFTS Rwanda does today.

Brigitte, our Country Director, shared these words with us from Rwanda:

"Although she is no longer with us, her vision, compassion, and dedication continue to inspire everything we do. As the GIFTS Rwanda team, we remain committed to keeping her dream alive by serving our community with the same kindness, hope, and generosity she shared with so many."

Reading those words reminded me that Shari's legacy isn't found in a building or a program.

It's found in people.

It's found in every child who remains in school.

Every family who can visit a doctor because they have health insurance.

Every mother who has hope for tomorrow.

​This is exactly what our current campaign is making possible.

Yesterday, we shared that rising costs in Rwanda have created an unexpected funding gap for school tuition and community health insurance.

Because of a generous donor, we've already secured the first $10,000.

Now we're working together to raise the remaining $8,000 so every child can remain in school and every family can retain access to healthcare this coming year.

Help Close the Final $8,000

As we remember Shari, I'm reminded that the greatest tribute we can give isn't simply remembering her.

It's continuing what she started.

Thank you for walking alongside us.

Thank you for believing in this community.

Thank you for helping ensure that Shari's vision continues changing lives every single day.

Her legacy lives on because of you.

P.S. Every gift made during this campaign goes directly toward providing school tuition and community health insurance for vulnerable children and families in Rugarika. If you've been considering giving, we'd be so grateful for your support as we work to close the remaining $8,000 by July 17.