A Day of Camaraderie Compliments of the EU

Feb. 21, 2013 text and photos by Kate Bialous

Sponsored by
the European Union.

Twice a year we organize a staff leisure day sponsored by the E.U. Grant "Ici et Ailleurs". It gives a chance for our employees to get to know each other outside of work. And as before, the staff from 3 sister centers joined together to play and socialize.

Employees of each center prepared activities for their colleagues. There were fun indoor games and outdoor activities such as football (soccer), basketball and a dodgeball game. For those not interested in sport, there was an opportunity to sing in a karaoke, one of the most popular Malagasy social activities.

Work colleagues who on a daily basis look after children in their centers like Akany Avoko had a chance to have good fun and play as if they were children themselves. As dancing is probably the favorite amusement in Madagascar, we did not forget traditional dances to the tropical rhythms.
The day was full of positive energy and a good spirit in the air.

Different games showed how strong our staff can be when working together as teams. One for all, all for one!

A tired team ready to head home.

2 New Buildings Inaugurated with EU Grant

Feb. 18, 2013 text and photos by Kate Bialous

Sponsored by
the European Union.

On February 8th, we inaugurated 2 new buildings in the center. They are a part of a bigger European Union Grant supporting Akany Avoko during three years. Project 'Here and There' helps to improve conditions of life for our children. 

The newest facilities include a shower for girls living in a main dormitory and a new multi-purpose building named Bougainvillier, after a popular tree in Madagascar. Bougainvillier consists of 2 food storage rooms and an infirmary. The opening ceremony was launched with V.I.P. guests, such as local authorities and many people professionally involved with Akany Avoko. The audience also included curious kids and their families who came to see how the center is providing better and better living conditions for their children. The storage rooms will provide a proper space to store food and supplies such as those donated by World Food Program.  The infirmary is a clean and private environment for our nurse and doctor to look after any unwell children.

Professional Education (CAM) Exhibition

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Jan. 4, 2013 text and photos by Chad Lebo

The Professional Education Program (CAM) at Akany Avoko is better than ever. And just before Christmas the dedicated students had a chance to prove it. The students prepared an exhibition to showcase their skills and products. 

The honored guests of staff, teachers and volunteers were treated to amazing food, a fashion show of clothes and hairstyles, a tour of the lush garden and received a 2013 calendar prepared during computer lab lessons. 

All classes are now taught by professional and certified teachers and the curriculum is detailed and comprehensive. Qualified instructors and high expectations are making a real difference. And beginning in 2013, the young women studying in Akany Avoko's Professional Education Program (CAM) will be able to receive government-approved certificates for completed training. This certificates will benefit the young women when seeking jobs and starting their independent lives after Akany Avoko.

Bravo to the students and teachers. 

The Boys get a New Abode

Cutting of the ribbon with Director Mme. Lalasoa, the Deputy Mayor of Ambohidratrimo Commune, and the Deputy Chief of the Ambohidratrimo District.

Sep. 7, 2012 text and photos by Chad Lebo

On Aug. 14, we celebrated the opening of Akany Avoko's newest building, the Bamboo House. This new building was made possible with the financial support of our "Ici et Ailleurs" grant through the European Union.

The happy boys after choosing their spots in the new bunks.

Lending a Hand

Old bricks from the recently demolished "cow house" have a new life as a pillar in a compost pile.

Jan. 26, 2011 Text and Photos by Chad Lebo

You scratch my back and I'll scratch yours. It may not be the most elegant saying, but it is very true. People helping people is what makes most of the world go 'round. And Akany's new mission as part of the European Union grant is to be a role model and teacher for other children's homes. We will be adopting three other homes as sister centers: Akany Avoko Faravohitra in Tana, the Mandrosoa Reeducation Center for Boys up the road in Alakamisy and the Center for Endangered Girls in Ambohimangakely.