This year Eliminate Poverty NOW! focused its annual fundraiser on The Dov Center - the pre-eminent Horticultural Education location in Niamey, Niger. We described it as “The Big One” – the biggest project we’ve ever undertaken with by far the biggest impact. It will improve lives in Niger by the tens of thousands.
Since last month’s mailing went out, we have two pieces of good news to share. First, the response to our appeal to “go above and beyond” has been encouraging. To date we’ve received contributions from 37 donors and almost all are at or above historical levels. Thank you! And for those still waiting to donate, please take advantage of the 100% match opportunity and make your contribution before year-end.
Second, with the help of interim financing, construction contracts have been awarded and construction at The Dov Center is underway! The groundbreaking ceremony was held on November 24th. Crowd size was kept down given COVID concerns, but the ceremony was attended by members of the national government and many local officials.
Niger’s Minister of Higher Education lays the cornerstone for the Dov Center
Niger’s Minister of Higher Education delivered the keynote address and spoke enthusiastically about the Center and its goals. He also participated in laying a cornerstone of the main building. Two local tv stations provided coverage and greatly increased awareness of the event.
As progress is made we will send updates. In the meantime, we wish you all Happy Holidays and our hopes for a kinder, saner and happier 2021.