Empower International Vessels of Honor Clubs
Five high school youth from Gachororo High School in Ruiru, Kenya who made deep spiritual and abstinence commitments stated that "they were now vessels of honor and wanted to be called vessels of honor." As a result of these five bold children who came forward to take a stand for honor, self-respect, and sexual purity, particularly in helping to stop the spread of HIV/AIDS, the Empower International staff helped them to develop Vessels of Honor After- School Clubs.
There are Vessels of Honor Clubs in each school where Empower International has a presence. There is an average of 33% participation of students in each school; there is 100% participation in Oakland School. Currently, there are over 1,200 students participating in these clubs. The students, along with guidance from the Empower International staff, create and disseminate HIV/AIDS information and promote a lifestyle of honoring oneself, others, and God in their schools through drama, songs and poetry.
School principals have indicated they have seen a substantial decline in negative behavior and violence in their schools since Empower International's prevention program has been implemented. This is one indicator that the children are embracing and applying the principals and knowledge that is being taught to them. Additional clubs will be implemented as Empower International increases its presence in other schools.
This excerpt demonstrates the impact that the Vessels of Honor Club and Empower International have had on the life of this student:
EXERPT FROM SPEECH BY MARY NDUTA, NGENDA PRIMARY SCHOOL, KENYA TO EMPOWER INTERNATIONAL DIRECTOR AND STAFF SEPTEMBER 20, 2006:
"Our distinguished guests from abroad, school committee, teachers and my fellow pupils. In front of you is Mary Nduta ready to make a speech. . . You should always remember your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit. . . There are some things that may help in making good choices: (1) realize that it is not going to be easy, (2) choose friends that support you and that share your values, (3) be prepared to say no to drugs or sexual misuse, (4) communicate your decisions clearly, and (5) be yourself. . . The qualities of a friend are loyal, obedient, trustworthy, understanding, generous. . . Make good choices by identifying the problem, listing your options (choices), considering the outcomes, considering what your faith teaches, seeking council from someone you trust, praying, and acting."
- Mary Nduta, Grade 8, Vessels of Honor Club Member, Ngenda Primary School, Kenya