AGAPE PAMOJA INC

Providing affordable housing in Kansas City for refugee families is one of Agape Pamoja's missions, which is done through Blessing Houses. On average, families save $1,000 per month in rent and utilities, and Blessing Houses are furnished with all the basics families need. Most Blessing Houses experience a renovation time before families move in, providing the opportunity for Americans and refugees to do renovations together on homes. These are key times to better understanding one another's cultures, working together for a common goal, and learning basic skill sets. While it's easy to think that moving a family into a Blessing House is our end goal, it is actually just the beginning of an open door to do life together with many of the families. As of December 2024, Agape Pamoja has 25 refugee families residing in 20 Blessing Houses. One of these is a multi-family unit (apartments). This equates to over 175 individuals from the African refugee community living in a Blessing House. Agape Pamoja has 3 more units to renovate and move families into during 2024. More than 500 volunteers came together donating over 8,000 hours to renovate, furnish & maintain these homes.

Helping students develop leadership skills is a key initiative for Agape Pamoja, and is accomplished through the Student Leaders Program. Qualifying middle and high school students for the refugee community commit to this special program that assists them with education, college prep, leadership growth, house renovation skills, driving lessons and support, and travel opportunities. Students that are a part of this program meet criteria to qualify and maintain their Student Leadership status. They are often academic forerunners in school as well as leaders for their sports team, as well as in their community. Students gain skills and run with opportunities to help them lead others well. The idea that "serving is a lifestyle, not an event" is practiced. While it is a requirement for students in this program to serve at least once a month with Agape Pamoja, most students serve with Agape Pamoja numerous times each week. As of December 2024, 17 students from 12 different families are enrolled in the Student Leader program with 500+ volunteer hours being given annually to make this program a success.