http://www.soulsourcefoundation.org/

Soul Source Foundation, Minneapolis, MN (2026)

09/10/2026

Jesslyn reflects on sharing at the meetings with the groups.

"Through these engagements, we learn, gain strength, and are spurred on towards the brighter future we all desire. We interacted with the women's groups and were encouraged to see that their merry-go-round and table banking are progressing well and aligned with their objectives."

Some of the many powerful activities we get to see while visiting, are the table banking sessions in the Women's Empowerment Groups. Kamasengre West Women's Group and Gunda Peterson Group have been working together as members for nearly 20 years through emotional and spiritual support, small business ventures, farming, table banking- community loan programs, and merry go round -resource sharing.
Each group had more than 12 members present and number at least 20 when counting those who were not attendance due to travel or work that pulled them away. These two groups led the way for countless others Women's Self Groups participating in Empowerment Training and Table Banking with the support of Marren, Isabell, and their team.

https://soulsourcefoundation.org/donate

09/09/2026

The students at KMSS hosted a talent showcase on the day we visited. There was a resident student DJ, a fashion show, hip hop performances, recitations, and dance routines.

Becky Ochola reflects on her experience visiting KMSS
"I felt encouraged and responsible to empower the next generation of women."

Walking through the school reminded me of where I came from as a young girl who had a vision. Coming from a similar background, I know how much it means for a girl to meet someone who was once there, understands her environment, and can say, “I was here, and if I did it, you can do it as well and go further.”

I am very excited about the upcoming mentorship program at KMSS. I believe it has the potential to inspire the girls, build their confidence, encourage them to take education seriously, and motivate them to dream beyond.

The OMP Madams developed a plan for a twice annual visit to both the Junior Secondary and Senior Secondary to mentor the girls both in thinking about their present situation and in planning for the future.

https://soulsourcefoundation.org/donate

09/04/2026

Jesslyn recalls the Empowerment Workshop facilitated by Marren and Isabella.

The afternoon session with Marren and Isabella was powerful. They took us through the seven areas of life (including sexuality, finance, and responsibility) in depth. Their facilitation was excellent and left us feeling equipped and motivated. All the mentors and Super Madams- Gayle, Sanne, Marren, Isabella, and the team truly made the program a success. Thank you to the Gunda Peterson Women Group for the warm hospitality and catering that kept us well fed and comfortable throughout.

You can learn more ways the scholars here: https://soulsourcefoundation.org/our-legacy

09/02/2026

The first OMP sponsored students were in high school in 2010, now they are have earned University Degrees in various fields. They are actively recruiting and mentoring the current sponsored students and planning programs for the future. We invite you to read their reflections from the workshops on Rusinga Island in August.

Janet Wrote:

During mentorships workshop in August, we had the opportunity to meet in a two days event that included most of the organization's beneficiaries. The pioneer group turned up in great numbers including Rebecca Ochola, Diana, Jesslyn, Queenter and myself, Janet Adhiambo. Madam Marren and we got the chance to meet the amazing Sanne for the first time. In attendance were also about fifteen girls that are currently in the program.

Through focus group discussions, informal discussions and observation, we were able to engage in meaningful conversations that had us share some of the problems the girls are facing while at school. These included scarcity of finances to take care of sustenance while at school, they talked of going hungry, the discomfort of staying with other girls in the hostels making them opt for renting houses outside the school, and the agony of having to pay rent when don't even have enough money for food, lacking data for online classes and examinations. We also found out some of them are undergoing emotional distress from deaths of their loved ones to heartbreaks from romantic relationships and problems with families( Confidentiality and privacy were maintained where appropriate ).

We found out that its important to visit the girls in their respective schools to be there for them and to check on their progress at school as some of these problems may lead to dropouts. The pioneer group offered to be visiting the girls regularly to give moral support and help with any challenges where possible. The girls showed gratitude for the organisation and promised to do their best and utilize the opportunity offered to them to ensure a successful future for themselves. I noticed the girls are confident and focused and with the right support will do great.

The discussions also highlighted challenges that continue to affect vulnerable girls. Regular engagement with beneficiaries is therefore important to ensure program activities remain relevant and aligned with the needs of the girls and the women being supported.
Donate: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/womens-history-month

08/13/2026

Soul Source scholarship recipients met with donors on video call to exchange thanks and support. The women shared their experiences, and the amazing things they have been able to accomplish with help through Soul Source Foundation. We honor the strong women we support, and the people who help make these opportunities possible.

From Rebecca Ochola, a former OMP Scholarship recipient:
Janet, Diana, Queeter and me (Rebecca) had the privilege of joining a Video Call with the donors from Soul Source foundation.
It was a nice experience as we were able to share our stories directly to the people who have supported our education and explained to them how their generous donations have changed our lives. They were warm, kind and very pleased to hear our success stories. They asked about what makes us happy and we responded by saying how positive the sponsorship has impacted our community. We laid a good example to the other vulnerable girls who are inspired to work hard and go to university. Significantly reducing school drop out in our community. Also giving back to the community and mentoring the girls made us happy. We told them that their support gave us hope and confidence. Seeing people behind the support that has enabled us become who we are today was a wonderful experience!
Soul Source Foundation beneficiary,
Rebecca.

Thank you to every Soul Source donor who makes moments like this possible.

08/01/2026

Safari Njema, means safe journey in Kiswahili. This week, Gayle Hammer (board director) and Sanne Nordlund (board intern) arrived in Kenya to check-in with our partners, share stories, and plan for the future of the organization.

Trips like this are essential for maintaining relationships, staying connected, and ensuring we are informed stewards. What a treat to spend time, share meals, and learn about on what is working, where we can improve, and how we can continue to dream!

We have been following the leaders of Rusinga Island since first visiting in 2007 and with happy returns now into 2026.

Karibu Kenya, meaning welcome to Kenya! Gayle and Sanne have already been greeted by Marren Ojode, sister of Prof. Theodora Ayot, and will soon be diving into sessions with KMSS leaders, Empowerment Groups and Trainers, Students in Secondary and Post Secondary, friends, and the next generation of Soul Source and OMP leaders.

Since meeting the first OMP students at KMSS in 2010, at least 600 students have been sponsored to complete secondary school at KMSS. Dozens of women have completed college and university through OMP scholarships and are now working professionals in their field. While 16 more are currently working to complete their post-secondary pathways and the groups of women trained in empowerment and small business development continue to spread with abundance.

Keep an eye on your social media email for some updates as move through our trip. During stage one we will adjust

Reply to the email or comment on the post if
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04/11/2026

Gayle Hammer
President, Soul Source Foundation

Some people lead from the front. Others quietly carry everything forward.

For over 15 years, Gayle has been the steady force ensuring Soul Source not only exists, but grows, adapts, and continues to serve. Her dedication to the women, girls, and communities of Rusinga Island has shaped the heart of this organization.

Affectionately named Nyachula, “daughter of the island”, Gayle’s connection to the community runs deep. What began as teaching has become a lifelong commitment: showing up, building relationships, and doing the day-to-day work that makes long-term impact possible.

Her leadership isn’t about recognition, it’s about responsibility, care, and follow-through. The kind that keeps programs running, communities supported, and opportunities growing year after year.

Gayle is the reason so much of this work continues. A constant presence. A driving force. And a reminder that real change is built through dedication over time.

Support Soul Source here to help us continue the work we do: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/womens-history-month

04/08/2026

We’re excited to welcome Sanne as a new Board Intern at Soul Source Foundation

Originally from Chicago and currently a student at Smith College, Sanne brings a strong background in education and community engagement. From supporting refugee students through tutoring programs to her involvement in civic initiatives, she’s already shown a deep commitment to equity and impact.

She also brings a creative spirit, with interests in photography, music writing, and ceramics, something we always love to see in our community.

We’re so glad to have her with us and look forward to all the insight, energy, and perspective she’ll bring to Soul Source!

04/06/2026

As we continue to honor the women of our organization we celebrate Elaine Millam
Founder of Soul Source Foundation.

Words from Clarissa Pinkola-Estes, “Do Not Lose Heart” are words I can hear Elaine Millam speak and words that highlight her commitment to start and continue leading Soul Source for many years.

Ours is not the task of fixing the entire world all at once, but of stretching out to mend the part of the world that is within our reach. Any small, calm thing that one soul can do to help another soul, to assist some portion of this poor suffering world, will help immensely. One of the most calming and powerful actions you can do to intervene . . . is to stand up and show your soul . . . Struggling souls catch light from other souls who are fully lit and willing to show it.

Elaine is, and continues to be, a fully lit soul, helping others find their light along the way.

Please support the work of Soul Source in Western Kenya: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/womens-history-month

04/04/2026

As we continue celebrating the incredible women who make our work possible, we’re honored to spotlight a leader whose impact reaches far beyond titles or roles.

We recognize those who don’t just support community, they build it, nurture it, and carry it forward every single day.

Marren Ojode
SSF: Kenyan Program Director

Sister, Aunty, Momma, Grandma, Wife, Partner, Friend, Teacher, Mentor, Trainer. The list of titles for the profound Madam only begin to scratch at the surface of her far reaching impact.

Marren Mical Ojode is part of countless three legged stools that rely on her collaboration to support growth and sustainability. She believes in women and has dedicated her life to nurturing and empowering everyone she meets from the smallest child, to the elder who is in transition.

The work of Soul Source is only possible because of her vision and dedication. She continually engages with and lifts up her community near and far. This Women's History Month, we celebrate an icon, Marren Ojode, for teaching us how to love fiercely and gently to empower the women around her to reach for their wildest dreams!

Please consider donating to continue the work of Soul Source as it empowers the women and girls it supports.

https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/womens-history-month

Soul Source Foundation

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