One Heart Uganda

Congratulations to Betty and Brenda, who are joining the Islamic University this August to study law. We’re excited for both bright young women and their aspirations. Betty describes her professional goal: “My idea is to be a lawyer, who can stand by the truth in order to serve the nation in peace and harmony. I will live by the truth and lay strategies to help poor people, who are taken to prison without the right of expression (freedom of speech) which is the greatest challenge of our country.” Brenda describes what she will do with her future success: “When I earn a good amount of money, I plan to construct an orphanage home in Uganda for street kids who have been abandoned and abused to provide a good life for them and make the world a better place.” Their dreams are an inspiration for all of us!

When Jon Olstad heard about OHU graduate Nicholas’ request for a diagnostic computer to help him entice more auto repair customers, he jumped into action. “I can appreciate what a handicap it is to try to work on vehicles without this type of diagnostic tool, because it really helps you identify the issues,” said Olson. Olson located a refurbished, universal diagnostic tool that works on all of the types of vehicles Nicholas services in central Uganda. He also provided the cables and a helpful instruction manual to ensure Nicholas could fully utilize the tool. The diagnostic computer was delivered into Nicholas’ hands at the mechanic garage where he works in Kampala. “Receiving this computer is a major achievement and I’m so grateful to Jon for the help. I’m overjoyed and will use it well,” Nicholas said. Olstad is a Team Lead technician at Walser Polar Chevrolet in White Bear Lake, MN; his career has spanned 23 years. When asked why he stepped up to help Nicholas, he said “I learned at a very young age from my parents to always be attentive to situations where I can be of help to someone in need. I’ve been so blessed, it just feels selfish not to bless others when I have the ability to do so.” We certainly count Jon and Nicholas in our blessings during this week of giving thanks!

Anthony is starting his second semester at Makerere University where he is working toward a 3-year Bachelor of Social Work and Social Administration degree. He was thrilled to receive a new laptop to help him keep pace with his studies. He’s looking forward to a future of helping others and being a force for good.

Our continued thanks to the Freund & Smith Advisor team, who are inspiring Lydia achieve her medical career dreams with tuition support and the help of a shiny, new laptop. Lydia’s going strong into the second half of her first year at St. Francis College of Health Sciences in Mukono.

St. Andrew’s second grade class, the smallest class of students in the school, defied the numbers and rocked the Penny Challenge that raised $3200 for Mabel’s scholarship tuition. One classmate brought in a wagon filled with pennies to help secure the 2nd grade win. The class celebrated with a donut party and heard thanks directly from Mabel via a video. Mabel is in the Senior 2 class at Lwamata Secondary School and dreams of becoming a nurse. Students helping students go to school helps us feel connected and inspired around the world. Thanks St. Andrew!