In Memory of Josh Malenke
The Hekima Place family mourns the loss of a dear friend, Josh Malenke, who passed away February 23, 2011, following a traffic accident. (full story and Josh's video)
A grand celebration on September 11 brought the Hekima Place girls and staff together with local clergy, neighbors, friends and supporters from Kenya and abroad to bless and dedicate the construction site of Hekima Place’s new home. Hundreds gathered at the construction site for a day-long festivity which included board members from the United States who took part in the ceremonies.
Mum Gladys emceed the initial ceremony which began with the raising of the flags – first the five countries that have helped Hekima Place with big sisters, sponsors, fund raisers and much more. These included France, Italy, England, Canada and the United States. Six scouts marched out to the area, raised the flags and then all joined in singing the national anthem of Kenya as its flag was raised.
Prayers led by local pastors opened the blessing ceremony, which took place in the new dining hall, which is still under construction.
Kenya Trustee President Elaine Muikuru welcomed all and Leah, the first born girl at Hekima Place, emceed the girls’ presentations. A welcome song, “Waka Waka” from the opening of the world cup sparked excitement for the day. More songs and dancing stirred enthusiasm from the visitors. Mums and uncles joined in the presentations with poetry, songs and dance
Thank you gifts were presented to the major donors who funded specific houses and buildings at the new home. Refreshments added a special touch to the day, and visitors, staff and girls all enjoyed the music, song and dance.
Construction continues on schedule with plans for the girls to move into the new home in December.
Hekima Place took the next step to turn the dream of a permanent home into a reality in June when construction got underway at the 10-acre site in Kiserian, Kenya.
The staff and girls at Hekima Place had something special to celebrate this spring.
The staff and girls at Hekima Place had something special to celebrate this spring. Gladys Wambui Maina, our assistant director at Hekima Place, graduated May 15 from Tangaza College, an affiliate of Catholic University of East Africa. She earned her two-year diploma in Social Ministry. Gladys, who assists Kate Fletcher in overseeing and directing the day-to-day activities for the girls at Hekima Place, will continue her studies in the fall to earn a degree from DePaul University in Leadership and Management.
Edith, Dorothy