The Europe-Based Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) Arise From Ashes, with its headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland owned and operated by a Liberian has expanded its intervention in Liberia by combining drug rehabilitation, youth empowerment, and humanitarian assistance for disadvantaged youths, particularly those housed at the Liberia Refugee, Repatriation and Resettlement Commission (LRRRC) Camp in Johnsonville Township.
Speaking during the Donation ceremony to the Ministry of Youth and Sports disadvantage youth housed by LRRRC Center in the Township of Johnsonville, the head of ‘Arise From Ashes’ Madam Emily Easkine, said the organization’s engagement with drug-affected youths began in 2022 in Maryland County.
She explained that the group initially struggled to reach drug users due to fear and limited access, until they realized they were living just minutes away from a ghetto near the former President William V.S. Tubman Palace.
“Through a neighbor who understood our mission, we were introduced to the youths. That was our first contact with disadvantaged young people,” Madam Easkine said. “We started with five youths and later expanded our support to 15.”
According to her, participation in the program required beneficiaries to undergo therapy. Those who completed the process were supported to return to school.
In contrast, others who had already completed high school were enrolled in vocational and trade programs to help them become self-reliant.
Madam Easkine also welcomed President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s ‘Say No to Drugs’ campaign, noting that Arise From Ashes actively participated and was the first organization to officially launch the campaign in Maryland County, in partnership with the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA).
“We currently have about 30 drug users undergoing therapy. Some have successfully completed the process and are now reintegrated into society and back in school,” she disclosed.
To strengthen recovery and reduce relapse, Arise From Ashes has partnered with the NGO Wave for Change to integrate sports, surfing, and mental meditation into its rehabilitation program. Delegation member Magalie Nyemade Leclercq explained that the approach is handled on a case-by-case basis, depending on the substance used, and helps keep the youths engaged while building discipline and life skills.
As part of its humanitarian outreach, the organization donated ten bags of 25-kg rice, two footballs, and sets of jerseys to the disadvantaged youths at the LRRRC Camp. The donation is intended to support both the nutritional and recreational needs of the young people.
Receiving the items, on behalf of MYS, MOH and LRRRC, Dr. Izetta Sheriff, Psychiatrist and Coordinator at the LRRRC Center, expressed gratitude to Arise From Ashes, describing the intervention as impactful and timely.
“When you see where these youths are coming from and how they have transformed, it shows that change is real and possible,” Dr. Sheriff said. She added that the government, through its multi-sectoral committees, the Ministry of Health, and other partners, continues to support rehabilitation efforts aimed at building a healthier society.
Camp administrators and beneficiaries also welcomed the donation, noting that the sports materials will promote physical activity and teamwork, while the food items will help supplement limited supplies.
Arise From Ashes has reaffirmed its commitment to continuing humanitarian and rehabilitation programs in Liberia, with a focus on drug prevention, youth empowerment, and social reintegration as part of efforts to contribute to a better Liberia.
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