asantY Community is an organization dedicated and committed, empowering the Swahili-speaking New American community to thrive in their new home.
Kauli mbiu, “Umoja ni nguvu ” Motto, “Unity is strength,”
This guiding principle encapsulates our mission and values, reminding us that together, we are stronger and more capable of overcoming challenges and achieving our goals.
“ Where there is unity God commands a blessing,”
King David
Our Mission
We empower the Swahili-speaking New American community to thrive in their new home.
Our Vision
Our vision is to restore dignity to the Swahili-speaking New Americans in Lancaster. We will create an environment where each individual is respected and given the opportunity to thrive. We will empower families to navigate their new lives with confidence and grace. This will be done through education, retaining cultural values, providing job opportunities in a thriving community.
Our Values
Guiding values
Faith
We hold a deep belief in God, which serves as the foundation for our actions and decisions. Our faith instills hope, purpose, and resilience in our lives and the lives of those we serve. We also acknowledge the existence of evil, recognizing that challenges and adversities are real and require spiritual strength and community support.
Family
Family is central to our values, encompassing more than just the nuclear unit. We define family as a network that includes fathers, mothers, children, grandparents, uncles, aunts, and cousins, all contributing to the richness of our community. Our view of humanity is inclusive, recognizing the essential roles of men, women, girls, and boys. Each member brings unique strengths and perspectives, and together, they form the foundation of a strong, interconnected community.
Respect
Respect is a fundamental principle that guides our interactions. We emphasize self-respect, which fosters confidence and personal growth. We extend this respect to others, recognizing the inherent dignity in every individual, regardless of their background. We hold our elders in high esteem, valuing their wisdom and life experiences. We respect those in authority, understanding the important role they play in guiding and supporting our community. This culture of respect cultivates an atmosphere of trust and collaboration.
Cultural Traditions
We celebrate our cultural traditions, which enrich our community and provides a sense of identity and belonging. These traditions are vital in passing down values and practices through modelling and telling stories to future generations. By honoring our heritage, we create a bridge between the past and the present, ensuring that our cultural identity remains vibrant in our society. We actively promote cultural exchange, encouraging understanding and appreciation.
Community Engagement
We believe in the power of community engagement, where every member has a role to play. By fostering active participation, we create a sense of ownership and responsibility among our members. This engagement strengthens our bonds and enhances our collective ability to address challenges and seize opportunities.
Lifelong Learning
We value lifelong learning as a means of personal and communal growth. By encouraging education and skill development, we empower individuals to reach their fullest potential. We support various educational initiatives that not only enhance knowledge but also foster leadership, critical thinking and adaptability in an ever-changing world.
KINGDOM VALUES
While we hold our traditions and these value as essential to a thriving community, the Kingdom value surpasses tradition, culture, ideologies and human imaginations.