_______________________________________________________________________
Community Service Award
B.A.S.I.C.S. International (SIM)
Angelique Wright
 |
| Angelique Wright and Linda Dianto, SIM Membership Chair |
 |
Angelique Wright, BASICS Representative |
"Good afternoon and thank you for the opportunity to share a brief update from BASICS International.
This year is especially meaningful for us as BASICS International celebrates 25 years of service. What began as a small volunteer effort has grown into an organization that has impacted thousands of children, youth, women, and families through education, technology, economic empowerment, and community development.
As we celebrate this milestone, we want to recognize the individuals and organizations who have walked alongside us. Soroptimist International has been one of those valued partners, and we are deeply grateful for your years of friendship and support.
Your annual donation of backpacks and school supplies has made a tremendous difference in the lives of children and families in Ghana. This past school year alone, thanks in part to your continued generosity, BASICS International was able to provide nearly 500 children with backpacks and school supplies as we expanded our outreach into a new community.
Today, BASICS International’s work is focused through four core initiatives:
Back-to-School Sponsorship & Educational Support – supporting more than 100 children and youth with educational sponsorships, mentoring, meals, and after-school programming.
Community Digital Lab (CDL) – providing free technology training and certifications in cybersecurity, networking, artificial intelligence, coding, and digital literacy.
Hedzole (Freedom) Social Enterprise – empowering women through skills training and income-generating opportunities.
Aklowah Experiential Learning Campus – a new 9-acre campus being developed to provide leadership, STEAM, environmental, and life-skills education for future generations.
As we reflect on 25 years of impact, we are also looking toward the future. We would be honored to have members of Soroptimist International join us at our 25th Anniversary Gala on November 7 in New York City, where we will celebrate the lives changed, recognize outstanding supporters, and share our vision for the next 25 years.
Whether you attend as our guest, purchase a ticket, sponsor a table, or simply help spread the word, your presence would mean a great deal to us.
Thank you for your friendship, your partnership, and your belief in the power of investing in children, women, and communities."
_______________________________________________________________________
 Linda Dianto and Charmaine Maggio  |
| 2026-2028 Board Charlynn Willis, Co-President; Roberta Locko-Leo, Co-President; Cheryl Rivard, President Elect; Wanda Price, Former NAR Governor; Eileen Jackson, Treasurer; Charmaine Maggio, Director |
