#Pathways To Peace #Avon Mattison #Purpose Earth #Guinea #Kindia

Pathways To Peace Honored with Purpose Earth Grant

A significant milestone for Pathways To Peace has been reached as the organization, recognized by the UN as a Peace Messenger, has successfully secured a $10,000 Purpose Earth grant. The grant highlights Pathways To Peace's impactful initiative, the Avon Mattison Girls Shelter located in Kindia, Guinea, which serves as a sanctuary for girls who have courageously refused to undergo Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and consequently found themselves homeless.

The Avon Mattison Girls Shelter was established on September 21, 2023, in conjunction with the WAR AGAINST POVERTY organization on the International Day of Peace. The shelter’s mission is to provide comprehensive support for girls who leave their homes to escape the brutal tradition of FGM. Essential needs such as shelter, food, and counseling for trauma recovery are provided to these young girls. Furthermore, they are enrolled in local schools and given opportunities to receive vocational training, equipping them with skills for future employment. This initiative also empowers them to advocate for their peers, encouraging other young girls who wish to escape FGM's horrifying consequences.

The recognition and funding from the Purpose Earth grant represent a pivotal training ground within a broader strategy aimed at eradicating FGM in Kindia within a single generation. Out of an impressive pool of nearly 1,700 applications from various countries worldwide, the Girls Shelter emerged as a standout, ultimately being awarded this significant grant.

Tezikiah Gabriel, the Executive Director of Pathways To Peace, expressed gratitude for the support: "Thank you, Purpose Earth! This grant signifies that we have a reputable partner standing alongside us, acknowledging the bravery shown by these young girls in fighting for their rights and identities. With this support, we can inspire our community to cherish the value of girls and women, ensuring their voices are heard."

The purpose-driven initiative of Purpose Earth engages in funding and mentoring projects that address vital issues such as environmental protection, community engagement, and cultural collaboration. Their co-founder, Laura Rose, emphasized the importance of investing in individuals and organizations working at local levels to cultivate a future that is cooperative and sustainable on a global scale. This commitment to grassroots efforts facilitates a ripple effect that extends well beyond the immediate communities served by these projects.

About Pathways To Peace

Founded in 1978 and incorporated in 1983, Pathways To Peace is a UN-designated Peace Messenger organization. The organization holds Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (UNESCO). Over the years, it has engaged with various UN agencies, including the UN Centre for Human Rights, UNICEF, and UN Centre for Human Settlements, to promote peace and equity around the globe.

About Purpose Earth

Initiated in 2019, Purpose Earth has dedicated significant resources to supporting purpose-driven initiatives globally. With over $475,000 disbursed to 54 projects across 31 countries, Purpose Earth strives to ensure that project leaders receive mentorship and guidance crucial for sustainable impact. Their continuous commitment to nurturing local initiatives is key to fostering collaborative efforts that address diverse societal challenges and promote lasting change.

In conclusion, the achievement of the Avon Mattison Girls Shelter underscores a larger movement towards ending harmful practices such as FGM. With essential funding and a network of support provided by organizations like Purpose Earth, Pathways To Peace stands at the forefront of creating a bright, hopeful future for young girls in Guinea.