Our History
We are grateful for the many hands who have been a part of this journey.
It All Started With a Goat
ORIGINS
GEMS Development Foundation was established by Ellen Ratner to expand the mission of the “Goats for the Old Goat” program, which was initially formed to raise money and awareness to fight hunger in South Sudan. The program gave goats to people recently liberated from enslavement and others in South Sudan who were and still are suffering from hunger – especially due to the ongoing conflicts. The GEMS Development Foundation grew out of that first effort, and stands for Goats, Education, Medicine, and Sustainability.
Over the years, donations were made to acquire goats for liberated slaves returning to the area now known as South Sudan. As of now, more than 17,000 goats have been donated to the people of South Sudan to provide sustainable sustenance for their families and means to begin their lives again.
In addition, programs were developed for the women in the country who were suffering from PTSD. One of these programs combined a therapeutic breathing exercise along with a beading technique for necklaces (which is also therapeutic). This treatment and new skill gave a means of providing money to the women for the handmade necklaces that they made. These are special hearts sold on the GEMS website, and monies went back to these women who had suffered so much through the ravages of war and violence to them or their families.
EDUCATION EFFORTS AND YOUTH PROGRAMS
Education was provided for children through the Sidney Simon Mustard Seed Project, and GEMS also contributed to the Camboni Primary School to assist in their educational efforts. Also, scholarships were given for training teachers who had yet to complete secondary school. English language training was also taught, as that is the language used to teach after third grade.
At the very beginnings of work in the country, a basketball program was initiated, with the partnership of Christian Solidarity International (CSI) and the NBA providing equipment and clothing. Along with the sport, basic hygiene was taught to participants.
POLIO SURVIVORS AND WHEELCHAIRS
Through a program for polio survivors, funds are donated through the website; and the survivors are very proud to be able to assist in the building of their special vehicles. Due to the rough terrain, a normal wheelchair is not functional, so a wheelchair is constructed out of bicycle parts so that the survivors of polio can manipulate the wheelchair and have more independence. They have been eager to learn the skills to help build their own wheelchairs. Also, they have learned a skill of carving mahogany crosses, which are rough in texture but beautiful in thought. The crosses have been sold on the GEMS website from the beginning of the organization.
FUNDRAISING PARTNERSHIPS
By working with and expanding these programs, GEMS Development Foundation plans to be a constant presence in South Sudan, fostering sustainable development. GEMS Development Foundation is its own non-profit corporation, and in the past has formed partnerships with Christian Solidarity International (CSI), WINDREF (The Windward Islands Research and Education Foundation), and St. George’s University.