Gary’s Story: “The Beginning of Hope”
How a single conversation sparked a mission that is now changing the lives of children across Uganda.
The Story Behind Ephraim Hope Mission
Five years ago, I attended a Connect Share networking event where I met a man who would change my life — and the lives of hundreds of children in Uganda. His name was Jackson Isiko.
At the time, I was helping raise money to feed children in Uganda. But Jackson kindly told me, “There’s plenty of food in Uganda. What our children really need is education.” He explained that so many kids in rural villages weren’t going to school — many were orphans living with their grandmothers or single mothers.
That conversation planted the seed that would grow into Ephraim Hope Mission.
Finding the Right Partner
Through social media, we connected with Moses Gimeyi, who lived near Jackson’s home village. After meeting Moses in person, Jackson said, “We’ve found the right man for the job.”
For two and a half years, Moses volunteered full-time to identify children who needed help attending school. When we finally offered him a small monthly stipend, he refused a raise — choosing instead to use it to send two more children to school.
Moses and his wife, Concy, now meet with the students weekly for activities and tutoring, while keeping close contact with teachers about each child’s progress and well-being.
From 30 Students to More Than 100
In January 2021, we sent our first 30 children to school. Today, we’re sponsoring **over 100 students**, from grade school through college preparatory programs like BYU Pathway.
Our dream is to see every one of them reach higher education and return to bless their families and communities.
A Trip That Changed Everything
When I visited Uganda in 2023, I fell in love with the children and their radiant smiles. Every family I met expressed deep gratitude — often through humble gifts of food: eggs, peanuts, avocados, even live chickens!
Each night, we gathered with volunteers and families to share meals and laughter under the stars.
One unforgettable moment was when a young mother handed me her newborn and said, “His name will be Gary.” I was humbled beyond words.
During that trip, we held a large community gathering with about 250 people — students, caregivers, and local leaders. Between speeches, we danced, laughed, and celebrated hope.
At the end, I shared an image of Christ holding a child and told them, “Christ loves you. I’m here because He wanted me to be here.”
That moment confirmed what I already knew: this is my life’s mission.
What Sponsorship Provides
Today, it costs just $21.75 per month to send one child to school — including fees, supplies, and materials. We also fund new uniforms and shoes each year.
And because every board member serves as a volunteer, 100% of donations go directly to the children.
One Starfish at a Time
We’ve seen what’s possible when a single act of generosity changes a child’s life — “one starfish at a time.”
Thank you to every donor who makes this mission possible. Together, we’re not just sending kids to school. We’re building a generation of leaders.
Thank you to every sponsor, donor, and friend of Ephraim Hope Mission. Together, we are changing lives in Uganda—one child, one family, and sometimes, one handwritten letter at a time.
