River State, Nigeria—
When: September 21, 2003
RYS has had two major projects in Nigeria involving youth from Nigeria and the neighboring nations. As part of the follow up to the International RYS project local programs have been set up in the River State region. Youth from this area have been active in interreligious programs and social service programs under the guidance of RYS leader Mr. Morris. The RYS worked in cooperation with Service for Peace dedicated this day in order to commemorate the UN International Day of Peace through offering a day of service and reflection at in doing service at the School of Midwifery in Rivers State.
The program was highlighted with a variety of interreligious programs including joining pilgrims in the Allure Festival. The community was deeply moved with the heart and spirit of the volunteers who worked on the local school. Our cooperation became a substantial model of the peace building spirit of reconciliation so needed in this nation.
This was the second RYS project in New Zealand and the 1 st international program. This project drew much support from Australia and pulled in participants from a wide variety of nations and religious traditions. Networking with organizations was a key to the programs success as Habitat for Humanity, the local civic leaders and the Moreau Youth Movement worked to model the pattern of cooperative living so critical in building a culture of everlasting peace.