About Us
Goodwill and Growth for Africa UK (GAGA) is based just outside Stratford upon Avon, Warwickshire. We work from a small office kindly donated to us by Big Red Recruitment. Now in our 17th year, we have recently recruited Claire Whatley into the role of Director. Claire's remit is to build upon the strong foundations laid by her predecessors Sarah Hodgson and originally Charlie Homer, to develop the organisation, procedures and profile of GAGA. Charlie Homer is now a member of the board of trustees and with their support Claire she will continue to build good working relationship with all the projects, donors and supporters that GAGA is fortunate to have.
GAGA is dedicated to helping children and communities affected by HIV - AIDS, poverty and violence in Africa, and everyone involved prides themselves on this approach to its work. We are committed to being transparent and accountable, making sure that no matter how big or small a contribution, it is recognised equally, and that we are always available to speak with anyone interested in our work. We are fiercely committed to the projects we support as we want them to become strong, well-structured and secure in the future to enable their great work to continue. As our funding is not designed to continue forever we work to promote sustainable development. Delivering 'Hands up' and not 'Handouts' - with each new project this is where our funding efforts are focused.
GAGA, and those that support us, believe that no child deserves to live a life without the security of shelter, health care, education, food and most of all opportunity. Without these things development and progression is often stunted and sometimes impossible.
The battle ahead is a long one, but one worth fighting. Today's battle against poverty and disease, is about helping projects and organisations in these areas become self-sufficient and not dependent, so that they can help their communities and children do the same.
Transparency
As a Registered Charity our accounts are published on the English and Welsh Charity Commission website, along with other reports and important documents. Please follow this link to have a look for yourself:
Charity Commission page for Goodwill and Growth for Africa UK - 1092028
Our approach
GAGA is a flexible organisation and we see this as one of our unique points. We encourage donor participation in the decisions we make as an organisation and welcome new ideas and projects. GAGA understands the commitment donors are making and we honor that with as much support and information as possible. Our work ensures that donors' money is well used and well places. This is of the utmost importance to us.
We seek to ensure any funds raised or donated are maximised, and that the outcome is reported to those generous enough to support us. We have a local contact, Debbie Young, who works with the organisations on the ground; she is our eyes and ears. We also work closely with and enjoy the support of more established NGOs in Africa. Their experience and knowledge help deliver our mission and ensure everyone benefits from working with GAGA. We are also fortunate to have the support of some renowned Rotarians both in the UK and South Africa and their support continues to benefit our work.
