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The Liberian Association of Indiana (LAI) on Saturday, July 24, made a contribution of over $2,000.00 to support initiatives undertaken by the Group of 77 in Liberia. The donation was a part of programs making the 163rd Independence of Liberia held at the RAMADA INN in Indianapolis, Indiana.
The president of the association, Kasor M. Dennis, Sr, made the presentation to the Executive Director of the Group of 77, Madam Kartumu Boakai, who is also wife of Vice President Joseph Boakai.
Mr. Dennis said he was very grateful for Mrs. Boakai’s presence at the program. He said while other Liberian associations around the US were using the day for merry making, he was happy that Liberians in Indiana came together to identify with the plight of the disabled in Liberia.
He emphasized that almost 76% of Liberians residing in the United States are working with disabled people, calling on them to at least make a modest contribution in support of their unfortunate brothers and sisters back home.
For her part, Madam Boakai thanked the association for the donation and the warm welcome accorded her. She said since taking over the leadership of the Group of 77 in 2007, The Liberian Association of Indiana has been the first Liberian Group residing abroad to make contribution to the cause of helping the disabled.
Madam Boakai encouraged other Liberian groups to emulate the example of Liberians residing in Indiana. She lamented that the Group of 77 is in need of just anything that can be used to make life rewarding. Madam Boakai is quoted as saying, “It does not have to be money alone, we will accept wheelchairs, crushes as well as walkers, ect”.
She made a presentation highlighting her achievements since taking over the leadership. The presentation included the rehabilitation of the Group of 77 home on Newport Street, a school building and a modern toilet and water facilities, with contributions from the Chinese Ambassador and other friends.
Meanwhile, another fundraiser in support of the Group of 77 is planned to take place in South Bend Indiana this weekend, according to a LAI release issued to The Liberian Journal yesterday.
The Group 77 is a government-run agency that caters to the needs of the disabled community in Liberia.
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