OUR FOUNDER'S STORY
Why We Work In Ghana
All For Humanity's unique mandate and connection to physically disabled children began with its founder Rhonda DeJong, who is herself physically disabled.
Born with Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI), a genetic bone disorder also known as brittle bone disease, Rhonda spent much of her childhood in hospital recovering from broken bones and was even able to attend school there when necessary. Growing up in Canada, Rhonda and her family had access to healthcare and education that not only helped her overcome her physical challenges but also enabled her to pursue a fulfilling career.
Rhonda with Kofi and Atsu in January 2023
In 2007, Rhonda visited Ghana and was deeply moved after witnessing children experiencing extreme poverty, often with little or no family support. She was compelled to return in 2008, and subsequent trips revealed an urgent, unaddressed need: physically disabled children - typically totally ostracized from their communities - lacking access to medical care and education and, consequently, with little hope for the future.
Following her second trip in 2008, AFH was founded. Since then, Rhonda has returned annually, often alongside AFH volunteers from Canada. One child at a time, AFH provides funding for holistic medical care, access to education and works closely with families, communities and partners to create lasting change.
Rhonda making crafts with the kids at the Orthopedic Training Centre (OTC) in 2018