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Niger has the highest maternal mortality rate in the world, and one in four children will not survive to age five. Health education, therefore, is one of the most important aspects of our program. This instruction makes a difference in their quality of life, especially what they learn about AIDS, a disease accompanied by grave social stigma. We also offer a varied approach to physical health, incorporating exercise into classes and leisure activities. |
• Public Health - Girls receive instruction in community health with practice in providing lessons in health lessons to neighbors, peers and other community members. A Registered Nurse provides training in more scientific aspects of health care, which supports their schooling while deepening their knowledge of disease and health. In addition, participants learn about preventing HIV/AIDS and to be advocates for HIV+ victims. |
• African Dance - The Old Town School of Folk Music has generously offered grants for West African dance classes to our girls. They are taught by Idy Ciss, one of the principle dancers and choreographers for Chicago's renowned Muntu Dance Company.
www.oldtownschool.org |
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• Yoga Class - Francine Kelly, www.teenieyogini.com , a certified yoga teacher and Reconnective Healing Practitioner, leads the participants in a weekly yoga class. Raised in Jamaica and a yoga practitioner since she was twelve, she writes, "My personal focus is on mindful self-awareness, strength and inner clarity to achieve both the physical and the mental/emotional benefits that Yoga can provide." |
• Bike Riding - Our young women learn both to ride and repair bicycles. Very few participants have previously ridden bikes and with progressively longer rides, their proficiency as well as their confidence grows. Bikes, helmets, locks and repair training are provided by
www.therecyclery.org |
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