For 120 children in Rwanda, a permanent school means the chance to learn, build friendships, and look toward the future with greater confidence.
Just over a year ago, Life Link Rwanda’s Icyizere Academy needed help getting children back into school. After operating in temporary locations, the academy now has a permanent home—a milestone made possible by the commitment of supporters and community partners.
But a building is only part of the story. Keeping children in school also requires teachers, daily meals, books, and consistent care. The Rotary Club of Laguna Niguel is helping support that work through an international partnership and an opportunity for a local scholarship recipient to serve.
Connecting Education and Service
With assistance from Laguna Niguel Rotary, a 30-day internship at the academy has been funded for scholarship recipient Madi Mairs.
Madi recently earned her master’s degree in public policy from Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo. During her internship, she will spend time with students, their families, and the Life Link Rwanda team to better understand the community’s needs.
The experience will give Madi an opportunity to put her education into practice while helping inform future support for the school.
Bridging the Gap While Grant Funding Is Pending
Rotary partners in Laguna Niguel, California, and Kigali, Rwanda, are working on a $42,000 Global Grant to support the academy during the 2026–2027 school year.
According to the project organizers’ October update, the money has been raised, and final funding through Rotary International is pending. That process is expected to take another eight to twelve weeks.
In the meantime, organizers are seeking $10,000 in additional donations to sustain the school until the grant funds arrive. These contributions will help cover immediate needs, including teachers, meals, and day-to-day operations.
How You Can Help
Rotarians, clubs, and friends throughout District 5320 are invited to help keep this progress moving forward. Every contribution brings the academy closer to the funding it needs to maintain stability for its students and their families.
Donate to support Icyizere Academy
For more information or to explore how your club can participate, contact Kristin Epperson, Rotary Club of Laguna Niguel, at kristinlagunaniguelrotary@gmail.com.
Thank you to everyone who has already supported the academy and helped these children take their next steps toward a brighter future.
Kristin Epperson
District 5320 Assistant Gov 2025-2027
Directory of Treasury 2026-2027
Director of Local and Global Grants 2023-2027
President 2024-2025
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