How young people from the Dentists for Africa sponsorship program in Kenya are learning to shape their community through a community charity walk—with heart, attitude, and energy.
The sun was already high up in the sky but the coolness of the night was still in the air when more than 60 DfA sponsored children gathered in front of the DfA sponsorship office in Nyabondo, Kenya, at 8 a.m. on April 25, 2025. Sister Seraphine and her team had organized a “Community Charity Walk” for the first time, and the sponsored children from Nyabondo and the surrounding area had accepted the invitation. But the walk was much more than just a group stroll – it was a targeted initiative to show young people that they, too, can give something back.
Mary Perpetua Achieng’, an employee at the Dentists for Africa sponsorship office in Kenya, came up with the idea: “We wanted to show the sponsored children that they are not just recipients of aid. They can contribute something themselves – with dignity, compassion, and a sense of responsibility.” The goal was to encourage the boys and girls to take responsibility, strengthen relationships, and make solidarity a tangible experience.
“Strength, Hope, Community”
In collaboration with the St. Monica Village Nyabondo Widows’ Cooperative, staff at DfA’s Kenyan sponsorship office selected twelve elderly community members in Nyabondo and the surrounding area. In small groups, the girls and boys visited a total of twelve households together with DfA staff – armed with brooms, soap, small gift packages, and open hearts. Their T-shirts read: “Walking in kindness. Strength. Hope. Community. – DfA sponsored children.”
Concrete help, genuine encounters
The activities ranged from fetching water and cleaning the kitchen to discussions about life, education, and spirituality. This resulted in some memorable moments:
🧼 At Peres Odundo’s house: The 88-year-old had just been working in the fields when the children arrived. They cleaned her house, washed clothes, and fetched water from the borehole. She was particularly grateful for a bar of soap – a small item that clearly meant a lot to her.
Discipline, dignity, and respect are the most important things. Thank you for coming.
👁️ At Nyamwanda Anyango’s house: Despite her visual impairment, she prepared vegetables, prayed with the children, and reminded them to love God and remain anchored in their faith: “Prayer gives strength – don’t forget that.” Her gratitude for the small Easter gift was deeply felt.
🙏🏿 At Selah Abuor’s: The group had to search for her first, as she had recently moved. “I am often lonely. I am very grateful that you came – I wish visits like this were possible more often.” Selah emphasized the value of education and concluded with an emotional prayer that touched everyone.
An impressive encounter with widow Magdalina
🚶♀️ At Magdalina Muga’s: In the midst of working on her small farm, the group met the 88-year-old widow. She spontaneously spoke to the girls about her life experiences and gave them advice to take with them. “Take care of yourselves. If you walk your path with dignity, loyalty, and inner clarity, it will carry you through life.” A lesson that left a lasting impression.
🧼 At Lydia Oketch’s house: After cleaning the house, Lydia invited the group to enjoy some porridge. This led to a fascinating discussion about the education system in the past and today – a real eye-opener for everyone involved.
🚪 At Serfina Ogada’s: She politely declined help – a sign of how important dignity and advance communication are. The group respected her wishes but still gave her a small Easter gift.
Values that endure
On the way back, many of the young people spontaneously shared their impressions: 
“I grew up with my grandmother – today I was able to give something back.” “We learned a lot, including about ourselves.” Mary Perpetua Achieng’ was delighted: “The children showed remarkable respect, maturity, and enthusiasm. It was particularly impressive how many of them talked about their own motivation – especially those who themselves grew up with older caregivers.”
The day ended with a meal prepared by Yvonne and Martha, students studying catering.
“The initiative has connected generations, honored the wisdom of elders, and opened up a vibrant space for children to learn about values, culture, and spiritual education,” summarizes Mary Perpetua Achieng’.
A gift for widow Serfina
Sponsorships – more than just schooling
The Community Charity Walk impressively demonstrated how the DfA sponsorship project not only promotes education,
but also promote active solidarity, the development of values, and social responsibility. It is in these moments that the project transcends itself – and shapes the future.
📌 More about our sponsorship project
📌 Learn about the widows’ cooperative in Kenya