Founders’ tribute as AfriThrive turns four years
Dear AfriThrive Family. As we stand at the cusp of celebrating AfriThrive’s 4th year of existence, I am overcome with a deep sense of gratitude and pride.
Four years ago, AfriThrive sprouted around our kitchen table with a simple, yet profound, mission – to uplift the health and well-being of African immigrant families and individuals of African descent here in the greater Baltimore-Washington DC area.
Today, as we light the candles on our 4th anniversary cake, it’s not just about how long we’ve been around, but the magnitude of our impact. A monumental 1 million pounds of culturally appropriate foods distributed, and over 50,000 lives touched.
These are not just numbers; they are a testament to the potential of a community that comes together with purpose and passion.
Through our weekly pantry program, we have ensured that families have access to culturally-appropriate, nourishing foods. And as we tread the soil of our cultural farm and community gardens, we not only promote a sustainable and local food system but also sow the seeds of our rich African heritage.
We have fostered growth, not just, in gardens, but in the hearts and minds of our youth through mentoring and empowered our community economically.
But as much as this is a time of celebration, it is also a moment of reflection.
Behind every pound of food is a story of a family that did not go to bed hungry. Behind every garden plot is a tale of hands that nurtured, not just plants, but dreams. Behind every mentored youth is a future leader, nurtured and inspired.
The pillars of our achievements rest firmly on the unwavering support of our partners, volunteers, staff, and most crucially, our community.
To our partners, your anchoring of our vision with your faith and investments has been invaluable. To our volunteers, your selfless dedication and boundless energy have breathed life into our initiatives.
Our staff, with their unwavering commitment and unparalleled expertise, are the driving force that propels AfriThrive forward. And to our community, who have so warmly trusted and embraced our mission — this milestone is as much yours as it is ours.
As we stand at this significant milestone and peer into the horizon, our pledge remains unwavering. The road ahead, laden with both opportunities and challenges, beckons us to scale new heights and extend our reach into further corners of our community.
With your unwavering support and partnership, we are determined to touch even more lives, achieve greater milestones, and deepen our collective impact in the years to come.
To the journey behind and the path ahead – here’s to thriving, growing, and blossoming.
With heartfelt gratitude.