After visiting Rwanda, a woman from Manhattan with a commitment to social justice dreamed of building a village for 500 orphans left traumatized by the genocide. Based on the Yemin Orde Youth Village model, and together with the Jewish Joint Distribution Committee in New York City, she created the Agahozo-Shalom Youth Village. They chose a large, hilltop site with views of distant lakes, views that would inspire open minds in the young villagers.

Construction began in 2007 for 32 children’s houses as well as their school, wellness center, dining hall, bakery, farm and playing fields. In December, 2008, 125 wide-eyed children arrived at their new home, ready to restore the rhythm to their lives. The dream is now fast becoming a reality.