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Milestones
By Joanna Carty, FOL Board of Trustees, Chair
Liberia’s history is like a patchwork quilt that has
warmed our hearts, touched our souls and continues to fascinate us
with the richness of its culture, resilience of its people and its
opportunities for tomorrow. Each of our unique experiences is a part
of the patch work. For most members of Friends of Liberia, Liberia
represents the common thread that we share; that brings us together
to create the larger picture that is FOL. As 2006 approaches the
year promises to be filled with celebrations and anniversaries.
The first celebration occurred at the historic moment
for Liberia and her people when Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf was elected
president of the Republic. As the first woman elected President of
Liberia and as elected head of state in any African country, her
achievement is monumental. May her education and experience serve
Liberia well and guide her in the months and years to come. The
standard she sets will be watched by many, as she inspires others to
set their sights high as they move forward to realize their goals.
Another occasion worth noting is the 45th anniversary
of Peace Corps. A group of pioneering Americans arrived in 1962 as
the first Peace Corps Volunteers in Liberia. They cultivated a
relationship with the people and government to develop, educate and
partner with Liberians. The spirit of the first group lives on in
every former Peace Corps volunteer who served in Liberia. FOL thanks
the cultural ambassadors who opened the doors of opportunity for
each of us who followed. Friends of Liberia will be at the forefront
in celebrating that anniversary and we suggest that you visit our
website (www.fol.org), which provides a link on an ongoing basis to
stay abreast of the information about the event as it becomes
available.
Finally, FOL will celebrate its 20th anniversary in
2006. Our membership represents Returned Peace Corps Volunteers,
Missionaries,
Liberian Nationals and Foreign Service Officers, among others. The
Founders created the organization to provide cultural exchange and
educational opportunities for its Liberian and American
constituencies. Over the years it became an advocate for peace,
human rights, as well as a promoter of health initiatives and
educational opportunities.
An organization run by volunteers rather than a paid
staff, FOL has had the support of members who have a genuine
interest in and concern about events and development in Liberia.
Additionally, these dedicated volunteers offer time, knowledge and
experience to keep the organization growing. As we move forward with
hope for the future let us continue our mission as ambassadors in
support of Liberia so that the next twenty years will be even more
spectacular than the last. Together we can make it happen.
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