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LitJoy is thrilled to announce its collaboration with the Ouelessebougou Alliance, a non-profit organization committed to uplifting rural and impoverished regions of Mali, Africa. LitJoy is extending its philanthropic reach to address the crucial need for adult literacy programs in rural Ouelessebougou.
Founded in 1986, the Ouelessebougou Alliance, pronounced "Wuh-less-say-boo-goo," is the first Utah nonprofit to establish operations in Mali, West Africa. It holds the distinction of being the longest-operating international NGO in the Ouelessebougou region. The Alliance focuses on improving the lives of villagers through collaborative efforts to identify critical needs and establish sustainable health and education programs, with an emphasis on breaking the cycle of poverty through education and health initiatives.
While the Ouelessebougou Alliance successfully offers children’s school and family healthcare programs, it faces challenges in garnering support for adult literacy initiatives. Over half of Mali’s young adults aged 15 – 24 are not literate, and despite improvements since the inception of education programs in 1993, many villagers don't continue their education past the 5th grade due to factors such as household poverty, child marriage or labor, and limited access to formal education.
The Alliance conducts annual literacy courses for more than 400 individuals aged 12 and older, primarily focusing on young mothers and women, empowering them with essential skills. In support of these efforts, LitJoy is committed to making a meaningful impact. The adult literacy program pays for the teachers to keep 15 schools open and running throughout the academic year. Currently the program is active in 12 villages and hoping to extend to 15 villages with LitJoy’s support.
In 2024, LitJoy invites its customers to contribute to Ouelessebougou’s goal of extending their adult literacy program in Mali. LitJoy will match customer donations dollar-for-dollar, with every contribution directly contributing to the sustainability and expansion of literacy courses. This initiative aims to empower individuals in Ouelessebougou, helping them overcome barriers and build a brighter future.
We are excited to share the latest update from the Ouelessebougou Alliance + LitJoy Literacy Drive!
The Ouelessebougou Alliance has let us know that thanks to donations from folks like you, they have administered nearly 17,000 vaccines this year to children and pregnant women, and their Village Literacy program has experienced significant growth with a 20% increase so far!
We are deeply grateful for your support with this program. As of now, we have raised $1,676.00 of our $8,000 goal. A few words from the Ouelessebougou Alliance: "Our ambitious goal for this year is to achieve a 30% increase, a target we can aim for thanks to your generous donations. Thank you so much for your continued support!"
Your contributions are making a remarkable impact, and we can still do so much more. Remember, LitJoy will match all contributions dollar for dollar;no amount is insignificant! Please continue to give as little or as much as you can to help bring literacy to Mali!
The Los Angeles LGBT Center has cared for, championed and celebrated LGBT individuals and families in Los Angeles and beyond since their founders first began providing services in 1969. Today, they provide services for more LGBT people than any other organization in the world.
LitJoy has partnered with the Los Angeles LGBT Center to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals within the LGBTQ+ community. Our mission is twofold: to celebrate Pride and to foster knowledge by supporting the Center's library initiatives.
Our target is to fund and donate 100 books to the Los Angeles LGBT Center's library, corresponding to approximately $1500-$1600 in donation funds. Each book contributes to creating a more enriching and diverse literary collection for the community.
Get one or both of our vibrant Pride-themed Enamel Pin Sets, knowing that your contribution goes beyond a stylish accessory. These pins are a symbol of solidarity, love, and the belief in the importance of diverse narratives.
LitJoy is proud to provide 100% of all profits from the sale of these pins directly to the Los Angeles LGBT Center to support the funding and building of their library. Libraries are not just repositories of books; they are sanctuaries of knowledge, inclusivity, and empowerment.
Whether you’re an ally or part of the LGBTQ+ community, be bold and make a statement with our adorable Pride Pin Set. These enamel pins feature bookish rainbow designs, including a quirky Lunacorn “Read Queer” library card and a stack of books encouraging you to “Read With Pride.”
BONUS: When you purchase these bold and vibrant pins, all proceeds will go to the Los Angeles LGBT Center. Be fabulous and fierce while supporting queer pride and show off your unique self wherever you go!
Get ready to make a powerful statement with Pride Pin Set #2! These enamel pins feature vibrant rainbow designs that show off your Pride pride. One, shaped like a wine bottle, proudly states, "I'm into the wine, not the label," while the other, a book, spreads love with "You're safe with me."
Just like Pride Pin Set #1, with your purchase of these pins all proceeds will go to the Los Angeles LGBT Center. Wear these bold pins with pride, celebrating diversity and sharing the love wherever you go!
Your purchase is not just a transaction; it's a meaningful contribution to the shared vision of a more inclusive and knowledgeable world. Together, let's celebrate Pride, empower our LGBTQ+ community, and ensure that everyone has access to the transformative magic of books.
