When I come onto the Zoom screen, I’m met with a huge smile and bright inviting eyes.
Today, I get to meet one of our monthly donors, Pat Bready.
Pat reminds me of Clair Huxtable from The Cosby Show. She’s eloquent, regal and captivating. I ask her to share what it was like traveling to Ghana for the first time in March 2024. “Of course sweetheart,” she says.
When she speaks, immediately I am drawn in. I can see the people, dressed in bright colors with elaborate patterns as she walks me through the marketplace. Holding up her wrist, she shows me the beautiful treasure she bought. One for herself and several for her friends back in the U.S.
Next she takes me into a classroom in Cape Coast. As an educator herself, Pat was impressed with the youth’s focus and attention as they learned about servant leadership and who they thought exemplified those characteristics in their communities.
We stopped at local restaurants, took a trip to see some historical landmarks in a bumpy van and visited Julie. Julie runs a hostel in the community where she houses and mentors young girls, providing them with a safe environment and alternative pathways to becoming self-sufficient.
Finally, through tears, Pat talks about the children. “I can never get through this part without breaking down,” she explains.
To Pat and many others who have traveled to Ghana with SusCo to learn more about the work we’re doing on the ground, spending time with the children is what puts everything in perspective.
Their resilience is unexplainable and almost leaves you breathless. When you hear about a child’s backstory and how they came to be in our programs you have to wonder how they are still finding joy in life. Why do they continue sharing their smiles with you?
But that is what it means to be Ghanaian. Fearless even in the face of adversity, incredibly generous, and always hospitable.
And for that reason, and so many more, Pat decided to become a monthly donor. Committed to our vision of a world where vulnerable children feel nurtured and loved, we are thrilled to bring her on board as our newest SusCo partner!
~ Kyla Farquhar
Director of Programs and Operations