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Message Ministry2024 Annual ReportSTAND AS ONE
Looking back on 2024Dan and Irene SchatWhat an incredible year 2024 has been! Reflecting onthe past year, we see God’s hand guiding and blessingso many aspects of Stand as One Ministry. He hasbrought together a dedicated team of ten leaders whoare now running the farm, and we are thrilled tocontinue mentoring each of them as they grow in theirroles.We are deeply grateful for your overwhelming supportthrough fundraising, financial contributions, prayers,words of encouragement, visits to Mitongwe,volunteering both here and abroad, and all the manyways you’ve joined us in this mission. Yourinvolvement means the world to us!Our heartfelt appreciation also goes out to our Boardof Directors, whose steadfast commitment has beeninvaluable. Their ongoing support, accountability, anddedication of time have been essential in helping usnavigate Stand as One.Take a moment to read through our Year in Reviewand witness the profound impact at Mitongwe—thelives touched, the families uplifted, and the rippleeffect throughout the wider community. We’re sothankful to be on this mission with you!
Malawi, AfricaMalawi is one of the poorestcountries in the world. Overhalf of the population livesin poverty, and one-fifth inextreme poverty.Malawi is a small country located in southeasternAfrica, known for its lush green landscape andwonderful people. Malawi has a population ofaround 18 million people, and the majority of thepopulation belongs to the Bantu ethnic group. Theofficial language spoken in Malawi is English, withChichewa and other Bantu languages being widelyspoken as well. Malawi is one of the poorestcountries in the world, with a GDP per capita ofonly $450 USD. Despite this, Malawi is known asthe “Warm Heart of Africa” due to its friendly andwelcoming people. Where we work
Our Vision & MissionVisionMissionOur vision is to create community-basedenvironments of care and opportunity toachieve lives free from poverty.Our mission is to provide Shelter, Training,Agriculture, Nutrition, and Development.We empower people living in poverty totransform their lives, their children'sfutures and their communities. ValueOur values and goals as a faith-based ministry, are to work withthe world's most vulnerablepopulation living in poverty.
Our Little Ones Explore Our Preschool Program remains a vital part of thecommunity, providing little learners with essentialskills to prepare them for primary school. Ourdedicated teachers group the children by age,offering engaging, age-appropriate lessons,introducing them to colours, numbers, and letters infun and interactive ways. Music and tradition are alsokey elements of their learning. Each morning, thechildren proudly line up to sing the national anthem,fostering a sense of unity and pride. After class, theyenjoy a nourishing bowl of porridge and farm-freshfruit, ensuring they’re fueled for the day. Beyond theclassroom, their education extends to hands-onexperiences on the farm. Class trips allow them toexplore gardens and livestock, deepening theirunderstanding of agriculture and the world aroundthem. It’s a program that nurtures curiosity, growth,and a strong foundation for their future!
We’re excited to expand our care to the tiniest members of our community! Soon, we will beginidentifying malnourished babies through our Health and Wellness Center and launching a dedicatedfeeding program to provide them with essential nutrition. Our goal is to give these little ones thestrongest start in life before they even reach preschool, ensuring they grow healthy and thrive.
Young Warriors ClubOur Young Warriors Club is a lively andwelcoming space for school-aged kids,where learning and fun come togethereach week! Led by our four dynamicleaders, the children dive into engagingBible stories, memorize scripture, playexciting games, and sing uplifting songs.Their dedication is inspiring—theyeagerly make the long journey to attend,their enthusiasm never wavering. The joyof gathering, learning, and growingtogether makes every step worth it!
Every week, the YoungWarriors eagerly lookforward to their hearty,nutritious bean soup—atrue highlight for each ofthem! And now, they’realso enjoying fresh fruitstraight from the farm—does it get any betterthan that? Nutritious,delicious, and straightfrom the source!
Inspiring Young MindsOur After School Program continues to flourish, offering children valuable literacy support, access to our extensivelibrary, and engaging instruction that fuels their curiosity and growth. One of the most exciting moments this yearwas our very first Mitongwe Spelling Bee! It was a true highlight, with 19 enthusiastic children showcasing theirskills in front of a panel of judges. The winner proudly received a notebook, while the runners-up happily took homea pencil. It was a wonderful celebration of learning, confidence, and achievement!
In 2024, we had the joy of gifting over 300 reusable menstrual pads, along with underwear, soap, and washcloths.The excitement was palpable—the girls clapped enthusiastically upon hearing they would receive these essentialkits! Along with the gifts, we provided valuable education, equipping them with the knowledge and confidence theyneed as they navigate this important stage of life. It was truly a moment of empowerment and celebration! Thisyear introduced a special session for the boys, featuring educational content and a small hygiene kit to take home.The workshop was well-received and appreciated.Essential Health Support
Caring for our Seniors with Food, Faith, and Hope This year, we remained committed tosupporting seniors, the most vulnerablemembers of our community. FromNovember to April, we provided maize,ensuring that many received the food theyneeded to sustain themselves.Beyond food, these visits to the farmbecame moments of warmth andconnection. Our elders gathered not just toreceive maize but to share in worship,receive encouraging messages, and lift eachother in prayer. These gatherings providedcomfort, strength, and a deep sense ofbelonging.We also found a solution to a long-standingstorage challenge. Maize stored in bagsoften suffered damage, so we invested inblue barrels. Before sealing them, we light acandle, which removes oxygen uponclosing, ensuring that no pests can harmthe maize. This method has workedbeautifully, preserving the food andsecuring nourishment for those whodepend on it.Through these efforts, we have not onlyprovided sustenance but also nurturedhope and community. It is heartwarming tosee the impact, each small act of care,reinforcing the resilience and dignity of ourseniors.
Leadership Training for Stronger CommunitiesRecognizing the vital role local chiefs play in guiding theircommunities, we identified a unique opportunity tosupport and mentor them in leadership, an area where theyhad never received training. Two Group Headmen and 24chiefs joined the initiative, eager to strengthen theirleadership skills. To equip them with the necessary tools,we launched a leadership course led by Dan, with Kingsleyproviding translation.Over five weeks, participants engaged in insightfuldiscussions, gaining valuable leadership skills and freshperspectives. Their enthusiasm was inspiring, and they leftfeeling empowered and eager for session two in 2025. Thisprogram is fostering strong, confident leaders who areready to make a lasting impact in their communities.
The Sports Ministry continues to make a meaningful and inspiring impact on the community. Through a youthleague that welcomes both boys and girls, young athletes not only develop their skills but also build character andconfidence. Coaches receive special training that goes beyond sports techniques—they learn to instill valuable lifelessons and share Bible stories, ensuring that children receive guidance that extends far beyond the playing field.This year, we’ve taken the soccer program a step further by introducing outreach sessions in surroundingcommunities. By bringing leaders directly to neighbourhoods, we are strengthening connections and fostering agreater sense of community involvement. More children now have the opportunity to experience the benefits ofthe program while learning about important values and the teachings of the Gospel. The Sports Ministry’s impactkeeps growing, fostering leadership, resilience, and a supportive environment where young minds thrive.Empowering Youth
In 2024, we proudly completed the second soccer field, along with the fence surrounding it. The ground wascarefully levelled, and grass was planted, all done by hand—a truly incredible effort that provided many jobs alongthe way. The dedication and hard work poured into this project were remarkable. Now, the kids are overjoyed toplay on a real grass field, an experience many of us take for granted. Seeing their excitement and enthusiasm makesevery hour of labour worth it, as this new field becomes a place for growth, teamwork, and lasting memories.A Field of Dreams
Exciting Growth at the Health and Wellness CenterExciting progress has been made at the Health and Wellness Center! The building is now fully completed, bothinside and out, with freshly painted walls adding a welcoming touch. We’ve brought in furniture and essentialsupplies that were previously shipped in the container, ensuring the space is well-equipped for its purpose.Additionally, we’re thrilled to welcome Isaiah as our new manager, bringing leadership and dedication to help thecenter thrive. These developments mark a significant step forward in providing a well-rounded and supportiveenvironment for the community.
Bringing Technology to MitongweTechnology is transforming life at Mitongwe in incredible ways! First, we were blessed with audio Bibles todistribute. Our first recipients—the blind and elderly—were deeply moved as they heard the Scriptures read in theirlanguage. The joy was unmistakable as they realized they could listen while resting in bed at night. Since theseBibles are solar-powered, they provide continuous access to the Word without the need for electricity. Second, we introduced a new opportunity for our staff by helping them purchase phones and setting up a mobilepayment system. Now, on payday, funds are sent directly to their phones, allowing them to visit an agent andwithdraw only what they need. This has significantly reduced cash risks on the farm while also encouraging savings.When the first payments arrived, the excitement was contagious—we even heard staff cheering in celebration!These innovations are bringing both convenience and empowerment to our community, making everyday life a littleeasier and more connected.
New for 2024—the introduction of our wormery! These wormerieswill play a vital role in improving soil structure by making it moreporous and enhancing water retention, creating healthier growingconditions for our plants.The worm castings are packed with essential nutrients likepotassium and nitrogen, giving our crops a natural boost. Evenmore exciting, we’ll be able to sell these beneficial worms to localfarmers, helping them reduce reliance on chemical fertilizers andsave money while promoting sustainable farming practices.This initiative is a win-win, supporting both our agriculturalefforts and the wider community!Growing Healthier Soil with Worms
Transforming AgricultureNow in its second year, funding from the Micah Global Grant continues to empower local trainers, equipping themto support surrounding communities. Already, 125 farmers have embraced the training, successfully transformingtheir land into a small agroforestry system. To further strengthen sustainability, we are establishing village seedbanks, ensuring long-term access to essential resources for continued agricultural success.The results have been incredible—farmers are seeing better harvests and are eager to apply what they’ve learned.Their enthusiasm is inspiring, and this initiative is making a real, lasting impact on agriculture and livelihoods in thearea!
In 2024, we conducted two immersive, week-long agroforestry trainingsessions—one in the spring and another in November—welcomingparticipants from around the world. These sessions combined insightfulclassroom instruction with valuable hands-on experience, allowingattendees to engage directly in planting and pruning.This dynamic learning approach proved highly impactful, allowingparticipants to actively practice techniques and deepen theirunderstanding. Many left feeling inspired and excited to implement theiragroforestry systems while sharing their newfound knowledge with others.It was a remarkable experience that fostered skill-building, strengthenedconnections, and advanced sustainable practices!Hands-On Learning: Global Agroforestry Training
Mitongwe NaturalsMitongwe is stepping into a new chapter with the launch of our packaged spices,moringa, and hibiscus—much to the delight of our visitors, who love to purchase and takehome these natural treasures. As we expand our product offerings, we are prioritizingmarketing and distribution while ensuring ample cultivation for dehydration. With thisgrowth, we proudly embrace our new identity as Mitongwe Naturals, sharing the finest ofour farm with Malawi!
Mitongwe's seed bank continues to expand, ensuring a reliable source of high-quality seeds for both the farm andthe wider community. Desire, our dedicated Seed Bank Manager, carefully plans the nursery, cultivating plants thatwill thrive in our gardens and provide food for various programs. Beyond the farm, these seeds will play a crucialrole in our Farming Outreach Program, helping local farmers establish their seed banks and grow crops fromstrong, dependable seed varieties. This initiative supports sustainable agriculture and strengthens food securityfor the community.Mitongwe Nursery
Mitongwe's agroforestry system thrives, being completely free of pesticides and chemicals. Instead, it relies onnutrient-rich manure from our invaluable herd of 197 cattle, creating a natural and sustainable approach to farming.Everything works in perfect balance, just as God intended. We cultivate a variety of plants to manage pestsnaturally, plant trees for shade, and grow a diverse range of crops—all coexisting in harmony. This interconnectedsystem fosters resilience, sustainability, and a flourishing ecosystem.Cultivating the Land as God Designed
Employment that Changes LivesMitongwe is home to over 100 dedicated staff who takepride in their work, surrounded by the beauty of itsflourishing gardens. As they gain valuable new skills,they also enjoy the stability of a steady paycheck,bringing dignity and confidence through meaningfulemployment. Even more inspiring, their earnings gobeyond just supporting themselves; they help providefor families, grandparents, and extended relatives,creating a widespread impact that touches many lives.
Our team of ten incredible leaders is growing stronger, more confident, and more unified every day! As theynavigate working together, each member is discovering their unique role, contributing to a dynamic and impactfulteam. With God's guidance, Dan and Irene continue to lead with dedication, ensuring the team thrives. Theircommitment and collaboration are shaping a powerful leadership group ready to make a lasting difference!Building a Stronger Future
Gathering, Giving, and Growing Together2024 was filled with fun andengagement as we fundraised andconnected with members througha variety of different activities.From a lively cattle-inspiredevening to a delightful summerdinner event, an exciting soccerevent, a captivating choirperformance, Move for Malawifundraiser, and the summer sailingseries, we embraced everyopportunity to come together andcelebrate.
The Move for Malawi was a powerful display of endurance and generosity, as 40 dedicated athletes biked, walked,and rallied together to raise an incredible $65,705 for Stand as One! As summer faded, we didn’t just clock in themiles—we brought the energy to Smithers with an unforgettable single-day event! With cycling, walking, a deliciouslunch, and an inspiring presentation, the day was filled with connection, motivation, and great fun. The turnout wasamazing, the weather was perfect, and the enthusiasm was contagious. It was more than just a fundraiser—it was acelebration and a true testament to the power of coming together for Stand as One!
We have joined forces with thesegreat organizations to make a realdifference!Tree of Life, The NetherlandsTeam Up, CanadaLBS Foundation, SwitzerlandMicah Foundation, The NetherlandsDiscipleship International, CanadaRonald Blonk, Let’s Go ProgramDays for Girls, MalawiMove2Help, Mellenger Interactive
2024Stand as One Ministry is a federally registered charity inCanada that issues Canadian tax receipts.This past year, dedicated supporters like you continuedthe fight against poverty. Thanks to your efforts, 2024has brought hope to many vulnerable families. Yourgenerosity has kept all of our programs runningsmoothly. We are committed to managing our expensescarefully, relying on our human resources to sustain ourmission while focusing on cost-effectiveness. Ourinitiatives rely on donations, and we're grateful foreveryone's help in maintaining our current projects andexpanding our impact.