The village of Dzoole (pronounced zoe-lay) in central Malawi is in desperate need of a community center. Over 30,000 people call Dzoole and its surrounding areas home; yet, it lacks even the most basic facilities needed to support community and youth based events and projects.

Martha Pigott, a Brick Foundation team member and Peace Corps volunteer is on the ground in Dzoole working with local officials, contractors, and Peace Corps project managers. Together, they have taken the necessary steps to coordinate construction of the facility. The only piece missing is funding.

The purpose of the community center includes:

• HIV/AIDS Testing and Counseling Center.With the stigma associated with HIV/AIDS testing and counseling, many "at-risk" community members, particularly teenagers, are reluctant to seek out these services. Project Youth Center will provide a safe and discreet way for "at-risk" individuals to seek help.
• Ministry of Youth Development Training Center. The Ministry of Youth Development provides on-demand training throughout the country in everything from reading to business. Their only requirement is that a village have a facility capable of supporting the training. Project Youth Center will meet that requirement.
• A Library. A significant amount of academic literature provided by the Ministry of Education is currently inaccessible due to a lack of local library space. Project Youth Center will include a library for these materials.
• An Office. Thanks to a concerted effort among local leaders and Peace Corps volunteers, Dzoole has seen a dramatic and inspiring rise in youth clubs and activities. These clubs and activities offer an appealing alternative to the temptations of drugs and alcohol. Project Youth Center will provide office and meeting space for these clubs, increasing their overall effectiveness.
• Recreational Facility. In order to create an environment attractive to young Dzoole residents, Project Youth Center intends to provide recreational equipment for the community.

In order to "break ground," we must raise approximately $12,000. Once the facility is built, it will take an additional $3,000 to furnish and equip it. This is a worthy project and it will not succeed without your support, so DONATE NOW!