Monrovia – A local non-governmental organization, SHALOM – Liberia, has intensified its support to over 300 vulnerable young people in several disadvantaged communities in Monrovia.
SHALOM is the acronym for “Serving Humanity with Affection, Love and Open Mind.”
The non-for-profit organization is helping to make impact on the lives of several adolescent males and females from West Point and New Kru Town who have had some rough experiences in their lives.
Under its “Let Us Learn Program,” SHALOM provides basic vocational skills training and livelihood programs aimed at building the capacity of 375 adolescence to enable them earned money for themselves and be self reliant.
According to SHALOM Advocacy Officer, Jutomue Doetein, the program is supported by UNICEF Liberia.
Since its launch in March 2019, young people have been acquiring basic skills in pastry, cosmetology, tailoring and the hospitality program which covers hotel management.
In addition, he added beneficiaries are also being trained in basic leadership and advocacy skills to serve as agents of positive change in their respective communities.
Meanwhile, some beneficiaries who spoke to FrontPageAfrica said the program is making “a meaningful impact on their lives”. They thanked SHALOM for the opportunities and promised to be “agents of change in their communities”.
“I was in the streets and taking in drugs and doing prostitution, but when I saw this friend, Matilda Sherriff, creating awareness on the danger of drug abuse and other harmful behaviors like prostitution and teenage pregnancy, I felt motivated,” explains Noria Quanteh.
“They built me up and I learned about the value of the girl child. Right now because of SHALOM, I have stopped going in the streets. I am living a normal life now and have caught off from most of my friends that influenced me to get in the streets.
“I am really proud because I am putting my life on the right track again. Some of my family members who never used to identify with me are now coming around me. Thanks to SHALOM.”
Another beneficiary, 19-year old Eben Reeves of the hospitality department told FPAthe program has restored his sense of reasoning and he can now hope for a brighter future again.
Reeves, a father of two, explained that after high school, he lost his father, and his single mother was unable to pay his college fees.
Because of this, Reeves explained that he joined his friends and were involved in drug and alcohol abuse. However, following his association with SHALOM, things are now getting better for him.
“Since I came to Shalom my life has been gradually changing. I am no longing drinking alcohol and using substances. SHALOM gives me hope and in times to come, I will be able to work and take care of myself and my daughter,” hopeful Reeves said.