On Community, Giving and Impact: An Impactful Endeavour

On October 4th, I had the pleasure of co-hosting a golf dinner tournament for The Kilgoris Project Foundation alongside Daisy Vuyanzi. This event was not just a gathering of golf enthusiasts but a powerful demonstration of community spirit and commitment to social change. Together, we raised over 550,000 Kenyan Shillings in one night, which will significantly contribute to the foundation’s mission of empowering marginalised communities in Kenya.

A Day of Impactful Engagement

The day began with an early morning tee-off at the prestigious Royal Nairobi Golf Club. Golfers from various backgrounds came together with a common purpose: to support the Kilgoris Project. The atmosphere was filled with excitement and camaraderie as participants engaged in friendly competition while raising funds for a noble cause.

The tournament featured various categories, including overall winners, nearest to the pin, and longest drive contests. Each category encouraged healthy competition and fostered a sense of community among participants. As the sun set, we transitioned into the evening dinner, where we celebrated not just the winners but also the collective effort that made this event possible.

Celebrating Achievements

The highlight of the evening was the presentation and prize-giving ceremony. Speeches from key figures within The Kilgoris Project, including Greg Baird (President), Ashley Brigham (Vice President, Development & Communications), and David Lemiso (Executive Director), inspired attendees with stories of how their contributions would directly impact the lives of children in Kilgoris. Their words painted a vivid picture of the challenges faced by these communities and underscored the importance of sustained support. And how can I forget the ever-present and joyful Winfred Buya Mukonzo, the official Queen of “good vibes and, inshallah"! There's also the beautiful Lilian Nyoteyo Kibagendi from iHUB Then there is the wonderful team that came along, namely Ashley Gasperi, Dorcas Nyamanya from Xolani Women of Hope.

The funds raised during this tournament will go towards essential resources such as educational materials, healthcare services, and food programs for over 2,100 students served by The Kilgoris Project. With six schools located in remote villages, TKP proudly provides daily meals and access to clean water—understanding that these basic needs are crucial for children’s education. Their goal is to nurture students who will make a positive difference in their lives and communities through the transformative power of education.

The State of Fundraising and Philanthropy in Kenya

A background for those who are wondering why the excitement: Contrary to popular belief, fundraising and philanthropy in Kenya and Africa in general have existed and evolved significantly over recent years. Traditionally characterised by informal giving practices rooted in community support—often referred to as Harambee—the landscape is now experiencing a shift towards more structured philanthropic efforts. According to the Charities Aid Foundation (CAF), Kenya ranks third globally in terms of helping strangers and donating money. This highlights a growing culture of giving that is increasingly recognised and formalised.

However, challenges remain. Many organisations still rely heavily on international funding sources, which can be unpredictable. Local philanthropy is gaining traction, particularly among corporate foundations such as Safaricom Foundation and Equity Foundation, which have established themselves as leading players in driving social change through strategic partnerships.

Successful Modes and Means of Fundraising

In Kenya and across Africa, successful fundraising strategies often leverage technology and community engagement. Mobile money platforms like M-Pesa have revolutionized how donations are collected, making it easier for individuals to contribute to causes they care about. This has facilitated rapid fundraising efforts for emergencies or community projects.

Moreover, events like our golf dinner tournament exemplify effective fundraising models that combine social engagement with philanthropy. By creating enjoyable experiences that foster community spirit while raising funds for critical initiatives, organizations can maximize their impact.

Crowdfunding has also emerged as a powerful tool for grassroots movements, allowing individuals to pool resources for specific projects or needs. This democratisation of fundraising empowers communities to drive their initiatives while increasing transparency and accountability.

The Future of Fundraising and Philanthropy

Looking ahead, the future of fundraising and philanthropy in Kenya appears promising yet challenging. As more individuals become aware of local issues and engage in philanthropic efforts, there is potential for significant growth in community-led initiatives. However, this requires building a robust ecosystem that supports local giving through favourable policies and incentives.

The rise of digital platforms like GlobalGiving, M-Changa et al. presents an opportunity to harness technology for social good. As more people gain access to mobile devices and the internet, organisations can reach wider audiences for fundraising campaigns while utilising data analytics to tailor their approaches effectively.

Furthermore, fostering partnerships between local organisations and international donors will be crucial for sustaining long-term impact. By aligning interests and sharing resources, we can create a more resilient philanthropic landscape that addresses systemic challenges faced by marginalised communities.

Building Partnerships

Such events are vital for building partnerships within the community and beyond. They create opportunities for networking among local businesses, philanthropists, and organisations committed to social change. By bringing together diverse stakeholders, we can amplify our impact and work collaboratively towards shared goals. The East African Philanthropy Network (EAPN) is an example of such an ecosystem builder.

The success of this golf dinner tournament is a testament to what can be achieved when individuals come together with a common purpose. It serves as a reminder that every contribution—no matter how small—can make a significant difference in the lives of those in need.

Looking Ahead

As we reflect on the success of this event, it is essential to recognise that their work is far from over. The Kilgoris Project continues to face challenges that require ongoing commitment and support. We invite everyone who participated in this tournament and those who are interested in this mission to stay engaged with their mission and consider how they can contribute further—whether through volunteering, donations, or spreading awareness about their work.

Statistics That Matter

To underscore the impact of their initiatives:

• 2,100 students currently benefit from TKP's educational programs.
• 6 schools have been established in remote villages to provide accessible education.
• Daily meals are provided to ensure that students are nourished and ready to learn. A total of 714,840 meals are provided annually. 
• Access to healthcare services is integrated into our programs to promote overall well-being.

These statistics highlight not just numbers but lives transformed through education and community support.

Last but not least, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to all participants, sponsors, and volunteers who made this event possible. Your support not only helps such organisations raise funds but also inspires hope and resilience within the communities we serve.

Imagine a world where every child has access to quality education and basic necessities—a world where no child goes hungry or is denied the right to learn. This vision is within our reach if we continue to work together. Join us in this mission; your involvement can help turn dreams into reality for countless children in Kilgoris. Together, we can continue to empower marginalised communities in Kenya and pave the way for a brighter future for our children. 

Let’s keep the momentum going! Let’s Create Africa

For more information about the Kilgoris Project and how you can get involved, please visit the Kilgoris Project. Your support matters more than you know!

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ROYAL NAIROBI GOLF CLUB Lets Create Africa (LCA) Xolani women of hope GlobalGiving M-Changa Africa iHUB Nairobi M-PESA Africa The Kilgoris Project Greg J Baird Ashley Brigham David Lemiso Buya Mukonzo Lilian Kibagendi Suzie Narmour McNelly Ashley Gasperi Collins Odhiambo CHRP Dorcas nyamanya Sabina Lenkarie East Africa Philanthropy Network-EAPN Pierra Nyaruai KPMG East Africa Safaricom Foundation Equity Group Foundation International The Kilgoris Project