On Sunday, November 3, 2024, RHCI hosted its 7th Annual Taste of Africa event at the Brooklyn Park Activities Center, and what an unforgettable evening it was! This year’s fundraiser proved to be a true celebration of community, culture, and impact—all in support of expanding healthcare services in Tikonko Chiefdom, Sierra Leone.
From the moment the doors opened, attendees were immersed in the vibrant sights, sounds, and flavors of Africa. Guests enjoyed a delicious East African-inspired menu prepared by our new caterer, Taste of East Africa. The evening also came alive with incredible entertainment by Duniya Drum and Dance, who brought the energy and rhythm of African dance to our Minnesota community.
One of the evening’s highlights was the unveiling of our silent auction items, including a South African Safari for two. The buzz this item generated was palpable, adding to the electric atmosphere and excitement of the night.
A Shared Commitment to Health
This year, our generous supporters helped us raise $120,000 toward our $150,000 goal. While we didn’t quite reach the full amount, the funds raised will go a long way in supporting RHCI’s vital programs, including:
- 10,977 child medical visits at Outreach Clinics
- Support for 323 women at the Birth Waiting Homes
- 1,662 Malaria Case Management visits by Community Health Workers
- Expanding our growing malnutrition program
Each donation represents hope for children and families in Sierra Leone. It’s a tangible reminder of the impact we can create when we come together.
Special Thanks
We’d like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who attended, volunteered, and contributed to making Taste of Africa such an upbeat and fun-filled evening. A special shoutout to our table hosts, who rallied their friends and networks to join this meaningful cause, and to our amazing donors whose generosity fuels our mission. We’re also grateful to Diamond Lake Plastics for their matching gift, which inspired so many others to give.
Finally, we owe the evening’s success to our incredible RHCI team, both in Sierra Leone and the U.S., for their tireless dedication to improving lives. Your hard work ensures that every dollar raised goes toward meaningful change.
Continuing the Journey
As we celebrate the success of this year’s Taste of Africa, we hope everyone who joined us had a fantastic time. We look forward to continuing this journey of transforming healthcare in Sierra Leone. If you weren’t able to join us this time, we’d love to see you at next year’s event! In the meantime, you can support RHCI by donating, volunteering, or spreading the word about our work.
Let’s keep building brighter futures together. Thank you for being part of the RHCI family.
