“We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.”
– Winston Churchill.
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world: indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”
Margaret Mead
GARD is a Canadian-based, grassroots, not-for-profit organization dedicated to assisting others in developing countries through clean water and education programs. We believe these programs are best carried out in a joint effort between us and the people, and therefore, community involvement is the foundation for its success.
This involvement provides people with project ownership, skills training and a broader knowledge base; the ingredients for a sustainable project. It also allows our volunteers to interact with people on a personal level and to develop a better understanding of the needs and values of the area.
SPRING PROTECTION
GARD has been involved in safeguarding springs in Uganda since 2008, ensuring the protection of approximately 1-2 springs annually. The cost per spring protection project averages around $3,000, offering benefits to about 250-300 households within each village.
SEWING vocational school
As a consequence of the pandemic, Uganda experienced a two-year interruption in access to schooling, leading to a significant rise in teenage pregnancies. This situation has rendered many teens unable to pursue education or secure employment opportunities. In response, GARD initiated a sewing school in 2023, equipped with 10 Singer sewing machines and staffed by two instructors. The students have made considerable progress, prompting us to seek funding for an additional 10 machines. Continuous provision of supplies and financial support for staffing remains crucial for the sustainability of the program.
Along with spring protection and biosand filters, health and sanitation education is paramount to help enforce good hygiene. Empowering individuals with the necessary knowledge and skills enables them to assert control over their water, sanitation, and hygiene needs. Through GARD, people are empowered to initiate change within their homes and communities, fostering resilience and implementing tailored solutions to their specific water circumstances.
HEALTH AND SANITATION EDUCATION
BIOSAND FILTER PROGRAM
Biosand filters (BSF) remove pathogens and suspended solids from water using biological and physical processes in a sand column covered with a biofilm. BSFs have been shown to remove heavy metals, turbidity, bacteria, viruses and protozoa. BSFs also reduce discolouration, odour and unpleasant taste. Studies have indicated a correlation between the use of BSFs and a decrease in the occurrence of diarrhea. Because of their effectiveness, ease of use, and lack of recurring costs, biosand filters are often considered appropriate technology in developing countries.
“Not until the creation and maintenance of decent conditions of life for all people are recognized and accepted as a common obligation of all people and all countries—not until then shall we, with a certain degree of justification, be able to speak of humankind as civilized.”
Albert Einstein