Speaking Up For Widows

At first, Averil didn’t like the term ‘widow’ to describe herself. She may have lost her husband Josh, but she didn’t want to be thought of as alone in the world.

Then she learned about widows living in poverty around the world, and the ways they often were alone. Because when they lost a spouse, they often also lost their children, their land and their worth in the community.

Something moved in her heart. “I realized that maybe I could use the power of my voice and speak up for those women whose voice has been taken away from them.”

So she set a goal to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro and raise funds and awareness. As Averil took on a difficult physical and mental task of climbing a mountain (and overcoming her fear), she challenged others to care about the difficult tasks widows face every day.

Thanks to Averil’s heart for serving women like her—and her community rallying around her—over $41,000 has been raised.

With help from Averil’s care and advocacy, widows are empowered to fight for their land back. They’ll be supported with greater resources to start a small business, access basic food and medical care and receive safety and finance training.

“Through the tears, the pain and the darkness, Kilimanjaro is my proclamation that I am still here.” And with the incredible support that has been raised, it is also a proclamation that widows all around the world are valuable, loved and cared for!

Does your own story spur you on to help others? You can fundraise and advocate for IJM’s work in your own unique way, just like Averil did. Go to ijm.ca/start-fundraiser to learn more or contact us at engage@ijm.ca.