It’s hard to believe that I’ve been here in Ghana 6 months to-the-day already!  It’s the start of rainy season so the days are hot and humid but the afternoon rains provide some relief from the African sun.  There have been so many exciting things that I have to remind myself to “breathe” and that this race is a marathon and not a sprint!  

Scripture gives guidance on how to run “the race”:

“…let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.  Let us fix our eyes on Jesus…” Hebrews 12:1-2 NIV

 “The race is not to the swift or the battle to the strong…” Ecclesiastes 9:11 NIV

 “Do you know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize.”1 Corinthians 9:24 NIV“…

So, on this 6- Month Anniversary in which Stan Slade, IM-Associate Executive Director of Program helped me in part to celebrate during his recent visit, I ask for your continued prayers and invite you to celebrate with me on some of the things God is doing through this Ministry.  Here’s some Highlights!...

v “All Girls” Group attended “Setting S.M.A.R.T. Goals” presentations at the Himalayas Guesthouse in Frankadua. The Owner, “Mr. Prosper” Kukalo, is now offering an Internship opportunity for a BVTC Graduate interested in the Hospitality industry!

v    National Association of Black Social Workers accepted my proposal to present “The Quest to Heal Victims of Trokosi” at their 40^th International Conference being held in Accra, Ghana on August 10, 2017

v    Advocated for a BVTC girl to receive a Hospital referral from the local Health Clinic for needed medical attention

v    University of Ghana-Department of Social Work has agreed to add this rescue, rehabilitate and educate ministry/BVTC to their list of sites for Social Work students to complete their 8-week Internships

v    Conducted Ministry “Tea” and BVTC Tour for guests from First Baptist Church of Midland, Michigan, the African-American Association of Ghana, and local Textile and Marketing Entrepreneurs to support internship/job opportunities for the girls

v    Invited to be a Guest Lecturer-University of Ghana-Department of Social Work to share about the Ministry and the work of BVTC

v    Met with Patience Antonio of Ohemaa Foundation and Ghanaian Attorney, Mr. Antonio to explore collaborative efforts and judicial advocacy for victims of Trokosi

v    Weekly Individual Counseling continues to support the girls spiritual, mental and emotional needs. Girls are expressing more interest in knowing Christ on an intimate level.

v    Weekly Business Skills Seminar students have designed from start to finish a “Dog Carrier,” and some met with a local carpenter. All 82 students (boys & girls) currently working on presentation skills.  

v    1 of 3 BVTC Instructors to receive the Ghana Baptist Convention Certificate of Completion in ensuring student learning through Lesson Planning

Thank you (“Akpe”) to the many Supporters who are choosing to “Run this Race” with me for the betterment of the lives of these girls!

*Like to become a “Run Partner”? Any One-time gift will strengthen the creation for Special Projects in the field as further needs are assessed. Please consider a tax deductible gift of $100 or more.  However, any amount is greatly appreciated!

Call 1-800-ABC-3USA, ext. 2324 or Click “Give” at: http://www.internationalministries.org/teams/744-richardson  or “Donate” at: www.RovaughnaRichardson.com (you will be navigated to my IM page).