Building Self-Reliant Rural Communities

“The community of the COSMA–the children, families, and staff–are some of the most extraordinary people that I have met. I was overwhelmed by their generosity–not just the many gifts and words of thanks they gave us, but also their patience in working with us on projects and teaching us about their history and culture. I will carry the spirit of the COSMA with me forever, and I hope that my relationship with their community continues to grow.”

Connor Bel

Volunteer · Virginia, U.S.A.

“When I visited the COSMA, I received a warm welcome from the staff, community members and children. I was inspired by the passion and dedication the staff put into their work. COSMA provides children with the support they need to attend school, but it also instills a sense of self-worth in them and empowers the entire community to work together in order to achieve their goals.”

Amal Ga’al

Volunteer · Toronto, Canada

“Though we couldn’t understand each other and came from vastly different worlds, the children at COSMA taught me invaluable lessons about relationship. I don’t speak Luganda, but the children at COSMA didn’t seem to need words. One girl, Sophie, grasped my hand and led me away from the larger group of kids. Demonstrating with her hands, she taught me a clap-game and began singing a song to the beat of our palms. At the end of the song, she squeezed my hands and looked into my face, smiling widely as if to silently confirm that we are, indeed, now friends.”

Austin Smith

Volunteer · Montana, U.S.A.