-expands outreach

Non-governmental organization (NGO) Impactful Strides Guyana is set to bring holiday cheer to vulnerable families with its second annual toy drive, scheduled for December 21, 2024, from 9:30 AM. This year’s initiative, led in collaboration with member Latifa Garnett, will see a significant expansion in outreach compared to 2023.

Last year, the group distributed five hampers to underprivileged families. In 2024, Impactful Strides aims to double its impact, delivering ten hampers filled with food, clothing, and other essential items to single-parent families and those in need. Founder Janella Adolphus highlighted the importance of the initiative, stating, “The aim is to place a smile on the faces of those vulnerable during the holiday season.”

The toy drive will target families in Nabacalis, East Coast Demerara, and several communities in Georgetown, including Werk-en-Rust, Sophia, and potentially South Ruimveldt. Adolphus noted that the outpouring of support from donors has been overwhelming, with individuals and organizations contributing generously to the cause.

“Persons are always willing to help, especially during Christmas time,” she said. “It’s all part of the same mission – making somebody smile during the season.”
The Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Sport has also provided support to help Impactful Strides fulfill its mission.
Since its establishment on January 3, 2019, and registration under the Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Sport, Impactful Strides has focused on social, educational, and mental wellness. In addition to holiday outreach, the NGO conducts year-round programs addressing homelessness, drug abuse, sexual health, and mental health awareness.

In 2024, the organization successfully launched its first youth development program, which included three workshops on drug abuse and sexually transmitted diseases. These events were held in Werk-en-Rust and received widespread participation.
“Mental health is such an issue in today’s society, so we primarily focus on that,” Adolphus explained. “If people are not well mentally, they won’t be able to function properly. You have to be mentally checked in before you excel in any area of life.”
At 26, Adolphus, a Social Work major at the University of Guyana, continues to dedicate her life to helping others. Reflecting on her journey, she shared, “When we look into communities that are distressed, there’s only so much we can expect others to do. I wanted to be part of that journey, helping people understand they are not alone and that there are others rooting for them.”

Impactful Strides is calling for volunteers to assist with this year’s toy drive. “We have a dynamic team working hard across departments – PR, events management, and our executive body – to ensure every activity is successfully executed,” Adolphus said.
This weekend’s event is another step in the NGO’s mission to uplift communities and bring hope during the holiday season.