Aimee and I are overjoyed to share a glimpse of the incredible journey we’ve been on recently. A transformative work happening at Chitendela Community School—a struggling rural school in Zambia where 200 children were left without a roof over their heads after it was torn apart by fierce winds.

When we launched our fundraising drive to support the school, we so far received around $2,500—short of our target— but it was enough to ignite hope and get us started. We rolled up our sleeves, crisscrossing Lusaka to negotiate deals on essential materials: cement, nails, roofing sheets, timber, planks, etc… Once secured, these supplies were loaded onto a truck and transported 2.5 hours deep into the countryside to the school.

The following dozens of community members showed up, ready to work together for their children’s future. Men, women, and even young people volunteered their time and labor, lifting, hammering, and rebuilding. Seeing their determination was deeply moving—it wasn’t just a school they were restoring, but a symbol of hope and resilience.

The day was long and grueling under the relentless sun, so we came together to provide a meal for everyone who worked tirelessly to make this dream a reality. A young goat was prepared by the women, alongside nshima, Zambia’s beloved staple food. Sharing this meal at the end of the day felt like a celebration of what we had achieved together.

And what we achieved was monumental—the school’s roof was largely restored, a sight that brought smiles, laughter, and even tears of joy. Children, parents, and volunteers alike marveled at what we had accomplished as a community.