“You never lose when you reach out to others.” This point resonated with me when I recently spoke with Kathy Sullivan, who founded Operation Dignity International (ODI) along with her late husband, Jim. Though I have had the pleasure of getting to know Kathy over the last several months through an entrepreneurial women’s networking group that we both belong to, we finally had the opportunity to chat specifically about her mission with Operation Dignity, which focuses on creating a better way of life for those living in Ghana.
The Beginning
It all began when Jim Sullivan, Kathy’s husband, a businessman and retired pastor, went on a pilgrimage to Ghana and felt an immediate connection to the people and their culture. Jim’s retirement dream was to make a significant impact, and that dream took root in Ghana, a West African country whose people were looking to overcome extreme poverty and build a brighter future.
Jim and Kathy spent three years in Ghana, immersing themselves in the local communities, listening to the needs of the people, and identifying where they could make the most difference. This ultimately laid the foundation for ODI, a faith-based non-profit organization with a mission to transform lives beyond simple survival. The goal is to help the Ghanaian people thrive.
Ghana, located on the West African coast, gained independence from British rule in 1957 and has since been navigating the challenges of building a young democracy. The country is working hard to grow its resources, improve its economy, and create a better standard of living for its people while preserving its heritage.
ODI’s Mission: Economic Development, Vocational Training, Improved Healthcare, and Faith Building
Operation Dignity focuses on four key areas.
Economic Development
One of ODI’s significant initiatives is partnering with for-profit organizations to create sustainable jobs. In collaboration with Gus Farming, 25 farmers from Rochester, MN, have been working with local Ghanaian farmers to revise and mainstream agricultural practices.
They’ve provided integral tools and training, resulting in a substantial increase in crop yields. Kathy shared that the Ghanaian farmers could manage 25 bushels per acre before Gus Farming's involvement. Now, they’re up to 110 with a target of 150.
Vocational Training
ODI is also dedicated to equipping individuals with necessary skills through vocational training. Plans are underway to build a vocational training center for trades like sewing, agriculture, and IT skills. The products will be sold in the U.S. and Ghana to provide a more reliable revenue stream.
A literacy program is also being developed to help adults improve their reading and writing skills, which is so important for running successful businesses. This initiative will also include providing books to the training center to help encourage and develop a love for reading.
Healthcare
The Ahyiayemu Healthcare Center serves nine villages with only 23 nurses and one motorcycle, which severely limits their ability to provide care. Villagers are dying from treatable conditions because the nurses can't reach them in time.
ODI is working to improve transportation, supply exam tables, and provide essential medical kits to tackle diseases such as malaria and typhoid. They also plan to supply anti-venom kits for snake bites, a common and deadly threat in the area.
Faith Building
ODI’s faith-building efforts are not quite what you might expect. Instead of building new churches, they employ a storyteller who travels to the villages, nurturing a sense of community and sharing the stories of Jesus. This approach aligns with the spiritual nature of the Ghanaian people and helps build trust and relationships within the communities.
A Commitment to Making Connections
Kathy and her team are passionate about making connections and providing opportunities for people locally to get involved. Teams travel to Ghana regularly, offering hands-on help and support. For those unable to travel, there are numerous ways to contribute, such as supporting the medical center project or participating in local fundraising initiatives.
As Kathy Sullivan, one of ODI's founders, emphasizes, "If people have a heart to help others, there is no obstacle in what can be done." This sentiment encapsulates ODI's mission to create lasting change in Ghana through community engagement and dedicated efforts.
Coming Together with a Common Purpose
Finally, I think it is worthwhile to share Kathy’s point about the difference that dedicated individuals can make when they come together with a common purpose. If you’re inspired to get involved or have an idea to support ODI’s mission, visit their website at odighana.org and take the first step towards making a difference.
The best way to help is by:
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Participating in short-term trips to Ghana
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Supporting specific projects like the medical center
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Engaging in local fundraising initiatives
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Contacting ODI directly to explore ways to contribute
Kathy is always happy to take a call and work to bring your idea to life.