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Community-led development in Sierra Leone
What we do

Connected solutions for connected challenges.

Our programs work together because a child’s education, a family’s income and a community’s access to water and energy cannot be separated.

A CARDO volunteer distributing school materials to a group of pupils01
Program area

Education

Sustainable support that gives underprivileged children a safe foundation for learning.

CARDO provides scholarships, school materials, teacher training, debate and quiz competitions, community school support and parental sensitisation so vulnerable children can enrol, remain and succeed in school.

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A cassava farm in Safroko Limba Chiefdom02
Program area

Agriculture & Livelihoods

Agriculture that improves food security while helping rural children stay in school.

Our Youth in Agriculture for Education initiative brings young people, farmers and village leaders together to grow rice, cassava, groundnuts, pepper and vegetables while generating support for education and rural development.

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Residents gathered at a town hall meeting in Goderich, Freetown03
Program area

Advocacy

Helping rural communities influence the decisions that affect their rights and future.

We engage leaders, parents and decision-makers on education, child protection, inclusion and community priorities, with particular attention to communities whose voices are often overlooked.

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A large group of pupils gathered as an adult distributes items04
Program area

Child Care & Protection

Protecting vulnerable children from abuse, exclusion and preventable hardship.

CARDO supports child development and sensitises communities on child labour, violence, corporal punishment, child marriage and the importance of safe education.

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Women of the community gathered with baskets and basins05
Program area

Girls’ Empowerment

Second chances and stronger opportunities for girls and young women.

We help girls overcome economic and social barriers to education, build confidence and participate more fully in their schools and communities.

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A CARDO team member carrying a solar street light panel and battery06
Program area

Solar Energy & Water

Basic infrastructure that makes rural life safer, healthier and more productive.

CARDO has delivered solar lighting, a solar-powered water well and other community infrastructure that expands access to clean water, learning and public safety.

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A CARDO volunteer supporting a man in a wheelchair during an outreach in Freetown07
Program area

Emergency Relief

Timely food, material and financial support for people facing immediate need.

Our outreach has supported homeless people, persons with disabilities, vulnerable children and families affected by crisis.

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Work with us

Bring resources or expertise to a program.

We welcome funding, equipment, training, research and implementation partnerships.

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Build with us

Help a community turn its plan into progress.

Partner with CARDO through funding, technical support, volunteering or in-kind resources.

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Occasional program updates, fundraising appeals and opportunities to help.

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