ABSTRACT
The 1994 Rwandan Genocide was one of the most brutal episodes in human history, with approximately 800,000 Tutsis slaughtered by the Hutu. In 2001, the organization Best Family Rwanda was established by three survivors who were less than 12 years old during the genocide. The organization served as their new surrogate family. Today, it helps nearly 110 orphans and vulnerable children in Kigali, Rwanda. Forging partnerships with individuals and organizations in the United States and Rwanda, Best Family provides school fees, health care, mentoring, family support, and spiritual development to participants. This case study examines resilience in post-genocide Rwanda, with the aim of identifying the ways in which religious faith shapes individuals’ ability to cope with trauma, reconstruct their lives and institutions, extend forgiveness, instill hope for a better future, and use their resources to empower others in their community. This case study describes current programs and the challenges that the organization encounters in empowering and equipping its members.
