by Merritt Frey, Executive Director

Mali Rising is aware of the serious impacts the pandemic is having on people and communities all around the world. We are taking the problem seriously, and taking steps to protect our volunteers, staff, and partner communities.

Although Mali has not yet reported its first confirmed case of covid-19, we are taking precautions. Mali Rising schools are government schools, so they will follow government closure protocols. In the meantime, our staff have stopped village school visits in Mali to reduce the chances of spreading covid-19. For now, the staff is instituting regular disinfection in the office, but if community spread occurs in Mali we will set them up to work from home. Luckily for us, as the only US-based staff person I already work from home. Volunteer activities here in the US will be limited to virtual options, but luckily we have quite a few of those options.

We have cancelled our in-person events for March and April, but we are also beefing up our offering of online virtual events. For example, if you are feeling bored at home, we really recommend tuning in to our March 29 video chat with Girls’ Project Coordinator Hindaty Traore. We promise you’ll be inspired and engaged…without leaving your own home.

The last few weeks and month are a true reminder of just how interconnected we all are. Although this can make us feel vulnerable, it is important to remember it is also a source of strength. We are all coming together and many of us are being reminded of what we value most in the world — friends, family, community.

We so appreciate the Mali Rising community and all you do for each other — from our donors who sponsor teacher trainings, to our teachers who help our students learn and grow, to the students who inspire us that change is possible. Please keep that spirit of generosity alive in this difficult time by helping out your neighbors — whether they are next door or on the other side of the world.

Please stay safe and take care of each other.