Children of the Joseph Project
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Jean Claude
In 1994 at the age of 8 years old ... Jean Claude watched as all 6 of his brothers, his mom, dad and his uncle where brutally murdered in the tribal cleansing known as the Rwandan Genocide. As the years went on Jean Claude struggled with deep depression and anger. His nights were filled with horrible nightmares. He eventually became dependant on alcohol to try and ease the torment of his horrific childhood experience. As an older teen Jean Claude became involved in our ministry in Rwanda. He showed exceptional artistic ability and so he was sent to school to learn the art of wood carving. Today he is a quite but very handsome young man who can produce master pieces of art from a chunk of wood and who now has a hope and a future. He also humbly serves as the teacher in our wood carving shop. Jean Claude's story is one of surviving, healing, restoration and victory.

Stories

Eugene
After the Rwandan genocide in 1994 Eugene lost his entire family. For 11 long years he lived on the streets and every morning ravaged the dumps for food. Today Eugene experiences restored dignity and has hope for a bright future. He faithfully serves on the staff of our ministry in Rwanda. There he has a leadership role and has the responsibility of managing many aspects of the workshops where other young people are learning trades and crafts.  Eugene has a smile on his face and peace in his heart. His is a story of courage, endurance and victory against unbelievable odds.

Rachel
Rachel lives in Uganda in the rural village where we have a home for orphans and abandoned children. Despite no water (3 mile walk to the nearest source) and electricity, these children are joyful, fun, intelligent, and courageous. When asked what she wanted to be when she grew up, Rachel replied, "A doctor, because I want to help people." Rachel has no reason to have a dream, yet within her lies a passion to be someone who can help others. It is the goal of OBM to provide the resources for every child with whom we work to pursue their dream.

Josee
During the genocide of 1994 in Rwanda, Josee's family was massacred except for her and her mother. Four year old Josee was told to flee into the woods. Her mother was then raped, her arms and legs cut off, and left for dead. Unbeknown to the murderers, Josee watched. When they left, she stayed by her mother's side until she died. Then this tiny girl had to fend for herself on the streets. Sometimes she was taken in by a family, only to be cast out again some time later. When Josee was a teenager she joined the hundreds of youth that are part of our program who are able to earn a living, able to love and contribute to others. Josee's story is one of courage in the midst of past sufferings. She is now a joyful, loving 18 year old, excited about her future. She is back in school now where she plans to finish her education and become a teacher.