Tools for Self Reliance
About Tools for Self Reliance…
Over thirty years ago Tools for Self Reliance was formed so that ordinary people living in the UK could practically participate in understanding and helping to resolve, some of the issues affecting the poor of the world. Our main aim is to contribute to the Millennium Development Goal of eradicating extreme poverty and hunger, specifically in Africa, but to do so by involving the British public.
We work on projects that focus on providing tools and training to some of the most vulnerable people living in six specific African countries. Working with African partner organisations we offer a package of assistance to people who are eager to make the most of their lives. People like Francis Tinka Abwooli who took part in a project with Uganda Rural Development Training in Uganda, or Zambian Sarah Chisanga who is learning a trade with Kabushi Youth Training Scheme.
“We had a small workshop 10 years ago with 4 people and 2 apprentices. … Now, we have 30 people, and we do work for various companies and schools. … We are happy because our children can get a primary education without a lot of suffering. … Here we are, growing some wings and feathers.” Francis Tinka Abwooli, Kasese, Uganda, 2010.
“Yes, the program has helped me in many ways. My attitude towards my future has greatly changed. I now have something I hope to become, in other words I have a vision of doing something meaningful in life. My family members are now proud of me because I am determined to finish my course.” Sarah Chisanga, Ndola, Zambia, 2010
Each participant on our projects will learn both vocational, business and life skills, and will receive a kit of quality tools that have been lovingly refurbished by our UK volunteers.
Volunteering – at the heart of what we do…
Volunteering remains at the heart of what we do. Our volunteers include the elderly, those with mental health issues, people with learning difficulties, young offenders and unemployed youth. All work together, learning from each other, with a common aim of producing the best possible tools to help the work in Africa.
“Volunteering with Tools for Self Reliance has a different draw for everyone. The main thing is that we ‘re all working towards the same goal – helping people in Africa who are struggling to help themselves out of poverty by giving them vocational skills training and tools for a better way of life. Bob Pownall, volunteer, Netley Marsh. 2010
“It’s so rewarding … I know how a sewing machine has transformed my life … but to be able to send it out to a community where it’s really going to have a revolutionary effect on people’s lives enabling them to earn a living from their own home or set up a workshop or set up a business, that is fabulous isn’t it!” Melissa Meek, volunteer, Castle Cary, 2009
Each year Tools for Self Reliance works with 40 African organisations to train 2,500 people in vocational and business skills and assists them to find meaningful employment that will change them, and their children’s lives.
Jan Kidd, CEO, Tools for Self Reliance
The Archbishop of York has been Patron of Tools for Self Reliance since 2006.