Steps to Dignity USA

Steps to Dignity USA is the United States branch of the Steps to Dignity Project, an initiative of the Future Leaders Initiative Sierra Leone (FLI-SL). The parent organization in Sierra Leone is dedicated to promoting nonviolence against children through a variety of sub-initiatives, each addressing key aspects of children’s rights, protection, and dignity.

In Sierra Leone, the Steps to Dignity Project is working toward building a No Hit Zone school and health clinic on donated land in the Waterworks community of Lungitown. This effort seeks to create safe spaces where children can learn, grow, and receive care free from violence and abuse.

​

Steps to Dignity USA was established to support this mission. Its sole purpose is to serve as the fundraising and volunteer arm of the initiative within the United States. Our work includes:

​

• Mobilizing resources to fund the construction and sustainability of the No Hit Zone school and health clinic.

• Recruiting volunteers for fundraising campaigns and awareness efforts.

​

• Coordinating both U.S.-based and international volunteers to support on-the-ground programs in Sierra Leone.

We are pleased to share that Steps to Dignity USA is officially recognized by the IRS as a 501(c)(3) public charity. This means:

​

• Donors can deduct contributions under IRC Section 170.

​

​

We are qualified to receive tax-deductible bequests, devises, transfers, and gifts under Sections 2055, 2106, and 2522.

This exemption strengthens our capacity to serve children and ensures accountability in our operations.

Together, through Steps to Dignity USA and our parent organization Future Leaders Initiative Sierra Leone, we are breaking cycles of violence and creating a future where every child is safe, respected, and given the dignity they deserve.

​

The key objectives of our project include:

1. Creating a Safe Zone for Children: Your partnership will contribute to the
establishment of the first-ever No-Hit Zone school in rural Sierra Leone, providing a
secure and nurturing environment where children are shielded from physical and sexual
violence, ensuring their dignity and rights are upheld.

2. Building a Health Clinic for Vulnerable Families: With your support, we will construct
a health clinic in an underserved rural area. The clinic will offer free medical care to
children and ensure pregnant women receive proper maternal care without traveling long
distances to access government health facilities in larger towns.

3. Leveraging Donated Land for Immediate Action: We have secured land for this
project, generously gifted by a local community stakeholder. Your sponsorship will
enable us to transform this land into a school and clinic, benefiting the community for
generations and providing immediate relief to those in need.

4. Empowering and Protecting the Most Vulnerable: Your support will directly contribute
to our mission of safeguarding children and women from violence while promoting their
human rights through education, healthcare, and empowerment.

5. Supporting Sustainable Community Development: Your contribution will fund the
construction of permanent structures that serve as educational and healthcare centers,
uplifting vulnerable communities and providing sustained access to essential services.

6. Joining a Movement of Progress: Last year, our volunteer team raised $6000 to
complete Phase 1 by securing materials and laying the foundation blocks. Your support will
help us build upon this progress and bring hope, dignity, and much-needed services to
communities where violence and illness are daily struggles.