My late husband and I have always been passionate about empowering the vulnerable and underprivileged in our community (women, youth and children) through community and empowerment programs. Despite my involvement in improving the lives of widows, I did not fully understand the stories and challenges of the widows we always care for until I became a widow. 

A few months after my husband passed away, I started a widows support group with 20 widows where we talked, prayed and enjoyed each other's company. This was so refreshing as well as comforting, that we decided to meet bi-weekly. Word quickly spread in the town where I live (Asaba) and the village my husband is from (Owhelogbo) about our support group. I had received many requests for participation and within 3 months, we were over 300 widows. Some came hopeless, tearful, barefooted, with ripped clothes, hungry and just wanting to sing, dance, and talk because they had heard others say the meetings had lifted their spirit again. 

It soon became clear that the cause was bigger than me. These women needed to know they were not alone. These women still have a lot to offer and should not be limited by boundaries of stigmatism and poverty. 

Our goal is that these strong women will realize that they are still a big part of our community and although so many were dependent on their spouses, Love Works Foundation will help them build skills by utilizing their experiences, strength and potential in creating a sustainable future. 

- Minnie Ajuwede Igbrude (Founder)