Many of the children are from particularly vulnerable socio-economic situations; orphans, handicapped, neglected, or living with adoptive families.  Such situations often lead to dropping out of school, and being particularly susceptible to the pitfalls awaiting youth who do not have the benefit of a secure family environment.  Group “Ussoforal” now made up of over 300 children throughout Guinea-Bissau, Senegal and Mozambique, plans on organizing an event to commemorate its 8th anniversary, to be held in Plack II on March 29 and 30, 2008  

Sadio Diatta Rosche is the founder and director of the group.  She is an artist from Senegal, West Africa and has over 34 years of African dance experience, teaching and performing worldwide in countries such as Senegal, Guinea-Bissau, Togo, Mali, Mozambique and the United States.  She currently resides in Tanzania where she hopes to establish an additional branch of Group “Ussoforal”.

Group “Ussoforal” relies entirely on donations.  Funds received through sponsorship of specific children or through contributions to the group as a whole are used to cover school fees, provide school books and other scholastic materials, secure basic medicines, and procure the materials and staff necessary for various arts and crafts activities organized for the children. As the group expands and more lives are enriched, so does the need for funds to obtain instruments and costumes, as well as school and sports equipment, basic medicines and other day-to-day essentials, and to establish a community center.  Therefore, any donation that you could make to help Group “Ussoforal” maintain its membership and continue its cultural mission would be very much appreciated, as would the sponsorship of the children already enrolled in the group.

It is our dream that children all over the world find identity and pride through their cultural heritage.  Please help us make the dream come true.