As Chairperson of Hand In Hand for Peace, I am extremely encouraged by the huge show of support from Canadians for this organization, which aims to help victims of war regardless of origin or faith.
As a war refugee from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), I arrived in Winnipeg, Canada, in March 2005. Soon after arriving in Winnipeg, I met with a group of Congolese refugees living here and formed "Hand in Hand for Peace.”
Since the organization’s inception, there is no doubt in my mind that as one we can make a difference and give hope to victims of war. Together with the community, Hand in Hand for Peace works to build awareness about the importance of world peace, while encouraging children, youth and community members to consider their roles as global citizens.
One of the biggest challenges facing victims of war today is lack of support, due largely to lack of information. Experience has shown me that people care, but are not aware. Therefore, our group has set up committees to plan strategies to raise public awareness about the suffering of war victims and how we can help them.
Each and every one of us has a vital role to play in working for peace in Canada or abroad.
It is up to us to make it work by joining our hands together for this cause. It is also my deepest hope that each of you who read this message will decide to join us.
No one is perfect and we are all doing our best. Acceptance of each other’s weaknesses and support for one another is part of achieving peace and healing.
Thank you to each and every one of you for visiting our website. We have made many new friends from different communities and organizations through this site. Your encouragement and interest in our cause will continue to help us to move forward.
To each member of Hand In Hand for Peace, to all our volunteers and those who assisted in the overall process, I cannot thank you enough for all you've done. You have given your time, energy, and passion to create this organization.
Right now, hand in hand, we are able to support victims of war; we are able to make a difference and to bring smile to someone’s life.
Thank you for all your hard work. May you be blessed.
Serge Kaptegaine
Chair