Hope for Life, a premier non-governmental organisation dedicated to the dignity and self-reliance of persons with disabilities (PWDs), has officially commenced its 40th-anniversary celebrations with a launch and the unveiling of its commemorative anniversary logo.
The ceremony took place on Sunday, March 22, at the St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Awoshie-Anyaa.
Under the theme “Empowered Together: Celebrating the Association’s Journey and Achievements,” the event served as both a reflection on four decades of impact and a roadmap for the future of disability advocacy in Ghana.
The highlight of the launch was the official unveiling of the 40th-anniversary logo. The emblem, which will feature prominently across all commemorative materials, was presented as a symbol of the association’s strength and its successful transition from a small support group to a nationwide engine of empowerment.
Speaking during the unveiling, organisers noted that the logo represents the “journey of dignity” that has defined the association since its inception, honouring the thousands of members who have moved from the margins of society into mainstream economic and social life.
The 40-year journey marks a significant evolution from the organisation’s humble beginnings. Founded in 1986 by Rev. Fr. John Thébault of the Society of African Missions (SMA), Hope for Life was established to support the “poorest of the poor” in the Greater Accra metropolitan area.
Fr. John was particularly drawn to individuals living in extreme poverty who, despite their challenges, maintained their dignity by refusing to beg on the streets of Accra.
What began in Madina eventually moved to “Bethany House” in Awudome Estates, a sanctuary for rest and recovery, before the organisation successfully transitioned to its own permanent building in Gbawe, Accra.
Today, the NGO has grown beyond its original vision. While it continues to support those in need, its membership now includes a diverse array of professionals, including university graduates, computer technicians, hairdressers, and seamstresses.
The next phase of the celebration is set to begin with extensive media representation across radio, television, and all social media handles to raise awareness for the association’s work.
Following these media engagements, the anniversary activities are scheduled to flow through the year as follows:
• April: Community service begins with clean-up exercises led by the Teshie and Kaneshie branches.
• May – July: A Grand Dinner Dance and Fundraising event will be held to secure resources for future projects.
• June: Clean-up exercises continue with the La and Ashiaman branches.
• July: Focus shifts to Madina and Adenta for their respective community service sessions.
• August: Members in Kasoa and Mamprobi will carry out their clean-up activities.
• October: The community phase concludes with final exercises in Nungua, Nsawam, and Odorkor.
The festivities will also feature a dedicated Exhibition showcasing products crafted by members, a Grand Durbar featuring keynote speeches and awards for coordinators and patrons, and a Beach Party for socialisation.
The celebrations will officially conclude with a Thanksgiving Church Service.
The President of Hope for Life, Mr. George Yaw Kyei, called on the general public and the disability community to unite behind the association during this special year.
“We are celebrating 40 years of lifting the image of people with disabilities and defending their rights,” Mr. Kyei stated.
He made a passionate appeal for financial support to ensure the successful execution of the planned festivities and the association’s ongoing empowerment projects.
“Our goal remains to ensure that every member becomes self-reliant and that their dignity is respected. We invite corporate Ghana and individuals to partner with us as we celebrate this journey,” he added.
As Hope for Life embarks on its fifth decade, the organisation remains a testament to Fr. John’s original vision: a life of independence, respect, and “Hope” for every person with a disability.
SOURCE: DisabilityNewsGH.com
