You may recall that Jigiya is the people with handicapps group in Markala. I facilitated a sister group relationship with Self Advocacy Association of NYS (SA). The two groups have exchanged pictures and questions about what it is like to have a handicap in Mali and the USA. Also, SA has sent about $500 to Jigiya to support their goals for improving the lives of their approximately 240 members.This has been a TREMENDOUS success.
The President of Jigiya, Lamine, assembled his governing board, as well as representative members who have received loans to improved their lives. Yes, Jigiya is using the money to provide loans to members, rather than giving the money away. In this way, they can continue to recycle the money amoung many members over years. The members are VERY GRATEFUL for the opportunity to receive the loans. In several cases, a loan as small as $10-$30 has had very benefitial impacts. People have doubled or tripled their incomes, and had more than enought money to repay the loan. Keep in mind that doubling or tripling their incomes is likely to be on the order of increases from $3 / month to $10 month.
President Lamine presented his financial record keeping system and receipts from the money received from SA, and the related deposit slips in the village bank. He then presented his loan application process, with required questions and a list of people who received a loan, how much they received, and whether or not it is paid back. Lamine was understandably proud of these very important procedures.
After Lamine's presentation, several members of Jigiya presented their stories, saying what they used their loans for, and displaying examples of what they produce. I captured these in pictures, along with a group photo.
SA plans to continue sending funds to Jigiya, at least through 2007. I was very honored and touched by the sincere thanks that Jigiya offers SA. Words cannot adequately convey what a big difference SA's funding is making in the lives of Jigiya members.
Thank you Self Advocacy Association of NYS!