Blair in Kenya 10-Year Impact Update 2024
January 2024
Reflecting on a Decade of Impact and Looking Ahead
Welcome to our very first Blair in Kenya newsletter—now shared as part of our journey and story. As we reflect on where we began and where we are today, we are reminded that none of this work is possible without the support of a dedicated and compassionate community.
We rely on people like you—not only for your generosity, but for helping spread the word about the life-changing impact taking place in western Kenya. Your support continues to open doors of opportunity for children, families, and entire communities.
Celebrating 10 Years of Blair in Kenya
In 2014, what began as a conversation with community leaders in a small village in western Kenya quickly grew into something much greater. The initial goal was simple: build a school to meet a critical need. The community generously provided land and leadership, while support from the United States helped bring the vision to life.
From the very beginning, Blair in Kenya committed to a 100% model, ensuring that every donation directly supports the mission.
Our first classrooms were modest—two small nursery classrooms. Today, just ten years later, we are educating over 1,100 students across two schools. Learn more about our schools and how they continue to grow and serve their communities.
We remain deeply grateful to every supporter who has helped make this journey possible.
Blair Students Return to Kenya
After a pause due to COVID-19, Blair students returned to Kenya for the first time, bringing renewed energy and connection to both schools. Fifteen seniors and three faculty members spent time engaging with students and the broader community.
While the joy and connection were immediate, the lasting impact was the perspective gained. As student Kyle Douglas shared, “My biggest takeaway was not to take anything for granted. It was incredible to see how people on a whole different continent live.”
These experiences continue to shape global understanding and deepen the connection between our communities.
Expanding Access: Blair-Serem Computer Center
We are thrilled to have introduced a new computer center at Blair-Serem School, a major step forward in expanding access to technology and education. With 25 computers now connected to the internet via Starlink, students and teachers are gaining vital digital skills and connecting to the wider world.
As School Director Kelvin Serem shared, this advancement allows learners to “develop their digital literacy and technical skills… and connect to the outside world.”
Plans are already underway to bring a similar computer center to Blair Educational Centre with the necessary funding.
Annual Medical Clinics Continue
Each June, Blair in Kenya hosts medical clinics at the schools, led by Dr. Jane Ferry, Bobbie Monaco CRNP-PC, and a dedicated team of volunteers from both the U.S. and Kenya.
These clinics provide:
Treatment for illness and injury
Preventative care education on nutrition, sanitation, and healthy living
Ongoing support for the school-based health clinic
In addition, hundreds of reusable menstrual kits were distributed through partnerships with Days for Girls Eagleville PA, helping ensure dignity and continued school attendance for girls.
We are especially grateful to Lower Providence Presbyterian Church for their ongoing support of this vital work.
Clarke-Hutchinson Dining Hall
A major milestone for Blair Educational Centre is the construction of the Clarke-Hutchinson Dining Hall, made possible through the generosity of a Blair family. Named in honor of Rick Clarke and Tom Hutchinson, this facility represents both legacy and future impact.
Set for completion in early 2025, the dining hall will:
Provide a dedicated space for meals
Include a full kitchen
Serve as a hub for school and community gatherings
Plans are also underway to bring a similar facility to Blair-Serem School.
Sponsorship Program: Creating Opportunity
Thanks to your continued support, 300 students are currently sponsored across both schools. A sponsorship of $200 per year provides:
Tuition
Uniforms and shoes
Books and supplies
School bag
Two meals per day
But beyond these essentials, sponsorship provides something even more powerful—hope, opportunity, and a brighter future.
We are always looking to grow this program and welcome new sponsors to join this life-changing effort.
Looking Ahead
While the progress over the past decade has been extraordinary, the work is far from complete. Blair in Kenya continues to engage in thoughtful planning to expand impact and meet the evolving needs of the communities we serve.
Over 1,100 children now have access to quality education, daily meals, and healthcare—opportunities that were once out of reach. This is your impact.
As we look ahead, we remain deeply grateful for your partnership. Together, we will continue writing the next chapter of this remarkable story.
