Filled with meaningful gifts for your friends and family, the gift catalog lets vulnerable children around the world know that someone believes in their ability to make their dreams come true.
Business development through steady income
Rabbits, with up to six litters a year, provide a steady income for vulnerable youth working toward self-reliance. This income helps cover basic needs like school materials, food, clothing, and medical care.
Food security from a staple crop
Many youth in the Zoe Empowers program grow maize, a traditional staple in their diet. In their villages, maize-meal is a culinary staple and a reliable source of income.
Secure food and a growing flock
Chickens are popular in the program due to their low cost and ease of care. A hen can lay up to 200 eggs per year, providing enough for youth-led families to eat and sell locally. Youth can also earn income by raising and selling chicks.
Education access for out-of-school youth
Vulnerable youth often drop out of school to work for food or because their families cannot afford fees and supplies. Early in the program, Zoe provides uniforms, fees, and supplies needed to re-enroll. By years two and three, families fund their school needs and those of their siblings through business profits.
Food security through daily milk
Goats are easy to care for, thrive on otherwise unproductive land, and improve food security. One goat can produce up to a gallon of milk daily. Youth receive training on goat care and how to use them as a source of income.
Vocational training for a salon trade
Hairdressing is a popular vocation for Zoe Empowers youth. After receiving training—sometimes from other Zoe graduates—aspiring hairstylists are provided with start-up kits that may include a sink, hair dryer, combs, and other supplies to launch their businesses.
Vocational training for aspiring builders
Having the right tools is essential for any youth who wants to start a new business. For aspiring carpenters, Zoe Empowers provides vocational training as well as hammers, saws, clamps, work gloves, and other tools necessary to repair homes and build furniture. Carpenters often assist their group members in home repairs and building.
Supports spiritual strength
While Zoe Empowers is religiously non-restrictive, spiritual strength is an essential part of Zoe's program. Bibles may be given to participants soon after the group is formed or before attending revival meetings (this varies by country). Bibles are also used by group members during their weekly meetings.
Vocational training in a lucrative trade
Some Zoe Empowers participants train to become motorcycle or auto mechanics. This is a lucrative profession, allowing young people to provide for their families. After completing their training, Zoe provides them with the essential tools to start their new business.
Vocational training for aspiring tailors
Buying pre-made clothing is uncommon in many regions where Zoe Empowers works. Instead, people rely on tailors to make their clothing. Many youth in the program choose to become tailors and pursue vocational training. To start their business, they need one essential item: a sewing machine.
Secure housing the group builds together
Early in the program, empowerment group members assess each participant's home for safety and stability. They identify those needing repairs or a completely new home. Zoe Empowers provides a grant for materials, and the group comes together to construct the home.
A three-year path out of poverty
This funding covers a family's three-year participation in the Zoe Empowers program, providing the training and resources needed for long-term success through education and business development. They will transform their lives and impact their community, assured they are not beyond God's love.
“My blessings are so great that I cannot keep them for myself. My carpentry business has grown into a training center for youth in my community. My identity is no longer one of poverty but it is now in God.”
– Jean Claude, Rwanda
Your gift reflects equivalent costs Zoe uses to empower youth. While not tied to a specific item, it supports the mission and goes where it’s needed most.
