A crowd full of thanks

A letter of thankfulness

Great is thy faithfulness, Oh God, my Father!

There is so much to be thankful for – God is great! God is faithful! God is our father, and we are His children!

As I reflect on my first year at TOLI, my heart is filled with gratitude. I’m deeply grateful for our passionate, faithful, and generous donors who support this ministry! I’m grateful for our incredible Partners: Heliopolis Evangelical Church in Egypt, Life Center Ethiopia, and Kenya Connection Kids.  I give thanks for the TOLI Field Staff, who do amazing things with God to impact so many lives. And I praise God for TOLI clients who are working hard to grow their small businesses and change their communities.

Recently, I had the opportunity to visit Egypt and see the work being done to bring about truly sustainable change in the lives of individuals, families, and communities through the TOLI microloan program.  

During the visit, our Partner hosted an inspiring worship event. Over 1,800 TOLI clients and their family members attended this event. Better Life, one of the largest Christian bands in the Middle East, led clients in worship. TOLI’s Chaplain clearly presented the Gospel and invited clients to respond. The Holy Spirit was present in extraordinary ways. Over 370 people surrendered their lives to the Lord.

Please take a couple of minutes to watch the accompanying video. I believe it will move your heart to thankfulness and confirm that your generosity is having a significant impact in many lives – physically, emotionally, and spiritually!

With heartfelt thanks, and with a prayer that this blesses you as a transition from celebrating Thanksgiving to celebrating the message of Christmas,

 

 Don Paterson, TOLI Executive Director

P.S. Keep your eye on your inbox in the coming weeks for TOLI’s year-end campaign! Our world needs hope and restoration more than ever, and I encourage you to pray and consider a year-end gift. 

On the right path

Step-by-step journey

This resilient savings group is just beginning their journey through the TOLI program, and already so much has changed.

Pictured: "Kajambaki Gacei" savings group

Step one: The introduction

What is a savings group? 1.7 billion people in extreme material poverty have no access to financial tools to grow a business. One in every four person globally is unbanked. A savings groups is a trusted, community-based way to save, lend, and support one another financially. In Kenya, TOLI grows its programs through savings groups. By meeting with groups, TOLI Social Workers introduce members to business training and, when they’re ready, microloans to start a small business. 

A year ago, David Njagi, one of the TOLI Social Workers in Kenya, met a savings group called "Kajambaki Gacei." He saw their extreme need and abundant potential, but he also discerned that they weren't ready for microloans – yet. Instead, he taught them principles to save. After a year of growth and saving, they were ready for the next step: business training.

Step two: TOLI's Business Basics Course

TOLI’s Business Basics Course is a biblically-centered, interactive curriculum, where participants learn how to build a business that lasts, utilizing their God-given existing skills. Participants are equipped with essential skills like customer service, marketing, overcoming obstacles, understanding supply and demand, goal-setting, record-keeping, and the importance of saving (86% of TOLI clients now save for the future!).

Together, this savings group learned so many things. At their graduation ceremony, they shared: 

  • “I appreciate the training. I started other businesses, but they failed. Now, I know I will be able to stand.” 

  • “I learned I can look around and do something new in my area.” 

  • “Thank you for helping. I learned how to budget so that I won’t keep begging or running out of inventory.” 

  • “I learned how to overcome obstacles and how to press on.”

Not only is the training about business, it’s about the Gospel. Discipleship is integrated into every aspect of the business training – in worship, biblical foundations, and conversations about participant’s God-given value, creativity, and capacity to dream. This savings group is full of dreamers! 

  • “I want to become a prominent woman in business.” 

  • “I dream of buying a dairy goat. When my grandkids come, I can pour them a cup of milk and tea.”

  •  “My dream is to have a business for years to come.”

Step three: Microloans

Though many of these women are just starting their businesses, they're living out their dreams. With a $250 microloan, Lucy bought a goat so that she can sell milk at the market (and pour a glass for her grandkids), Purity sells grains, and Caroline is raising and selling chickens. They’re no longer stuck in material poverty. They're making more income, providing daily meals for their families, and sending kids and grandkids to school. 

When they look back at their growth, they can’t help but sing songs of praise.

Step four: Get involved!

This fall, there are many ways to plug into the ministry of TOLI. 

WHEN: November 14th, 5:00-6:30pm
WHERE: 5785 North Union Blvd, Colorado Springs, CO 80918

Drop in at the TOLI Colorado Springs office to help TOLI count the ways the Lord has blessed us this year. There will be appetizers, fellowship, and sharing of stories. We'll send you off with a token of our gratitude to remind you how grateful we are that you are part of this story, too. Hope to see you then!

RSVP to Amy!

You’re invited to TOLI’s Global Day of Prayer and Fasting on November 26th!

Partners, Field Staff, and donors all around the world will be joining forces to pray for the work of this ministry. We invite you, too! 

1. Sign up for an hour of prayer in the link below to cover the full day in prayer and to receive a prayer guide. 
2. Join us from 7-8am MT for a global Zoom prayer call with the whole TOLI family.  Email Audrey for your Zoom link.

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Update from the field

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What's been happening around the world in the TOLI family? LOTS.

EGYPT // A new chapter of hope

> Over 2,200 active clients and counting in Egypt’s growing program. Exciting developments are happening in Egypt! This past year, the TOLI program welcomed a new leadership team that has expanded and deepened the program's impact. These leaders are driving growth at every level, fundraising locally, praying over the ministry, and overseeing rapid growth. Today, the program has 16 sites, 35 Field Staff, and a thriving community of over 2,000 active clients (There have been over 5,500 clients in total!).

But the growth isn’t just in numbers. With the addition of TOLI’s new Chaplain, Khaled Ghobrial, the leadership team is pouring into the spiritual development of both TOLI Social Workers and clients. Social Workers are discovering God’s purpose for their lives, finding forgiveness, and experiencing inner healing with the Lord, while clients are learning about God’s love for them and their ability to flourish, even in the midst of hardships and poverty.

> Spiritual growth at the heart of the mission. Just last week, during a spiritual gathering, the Egypt team shared the Gospel with over 1,800 TOLI clients and their families — a powerful moment of hope and reconciliation.

> How you can pray. Please pray for our Field Staff (31 and counting), the leadership team Mona el Serafy (Egypt Area Director), Nader Nabil (Lower Egypt Manager), Ehab Sobhy (Upper Egypt Manager), Hany William (Financial Manager), and our Strategic Partner, Heliopolis Evangelical Church. Pray also for clients' courage and resilience as they restart business projects after setbacks.

ETHIOPIA // Peace in a season of uncertainty

> 480 clients finding hope amid economic crisis. Although inflation is at an all time high in Ethiopia, TOLI's program and clients continue to thrive. Against all odds, clients are growing their businesses and finding new opportunities. Our Partner, Life Center Ethiopia, is playing an integral role in transforming the lives of widows through the region.

There are now four active sites — three located in the busy city of Addis Ababa and one in Meki, an agricultural town two hours to the south. Meki, in particular, is incredible with a 100% loan repayment rate since opening a year and a half ago. Across all sites, people are coming to know the Lord, and lives are being changed through the Gospel and microloans.

> How you can pray. Please join us in praying for peace during this challenging season. Pray against the impacts of inflation and for our clients as they adapt to the challenges. Lift up the six TOLI Social Workers, Hailu Getachew (Program Associate), and our Partner Ministry, Life Center Ethiopia, as they navigate these uncertain times and serve faithfully.

KENYA // A growing family

> Nearly 1,900 clients and counting. The TOLI program in Kenya is experiencing remarkable growth, nearly doubling its number of clients since last September. With 1,878 clients currently in the program, the Kenyan team is dreaming big — setting their sights on reaching the entire country with TOLI’s mission. Working through savings groups, this team creates communities of TOLI clients who learn together, save together, and increase their incomes side-by-side. 

> How you can pray. Please keep the Kenyan team in your prayers. Pray for the twelve TOLI Social Workers, Bonface Muriuki (Regional Coordinator), Peter Kingecha (Financial Administrator), and our Partner Ministry, Kenya Connection Kids, as they serve TOLI clients, care for vulnerable children, and equip young men and women through a technical school.

Thank you for your impact growing these numbers! 

Life Center Ethiopia Fundraising Gala // October 17th

TOLI's Partner Ministry is hosting a Gala in the Denver area. Buy your ticket here to hear the incredible story of Life Center and their kingdom impact in Ethiopia. 

Let's do this together

Each one reach one

Last month, I went on my first TOLI trip to Ethiopia and Kenya. It was amazing! TOLI clients and Field Staff are filled with energy and passion. It was a joy to be there, hear stories, and pray with clients. On the trip, one thing that struck me again and again was the love and selflessness of entrepreneurs.

Lauren, a TOLI client in Kenya, keeps notes from TOLI’s Business Basics Course so she can evangelize to others. Ashford is starting a security group to keep widows and orphans safe from harm. Alemnesh mobilizes women to participate in the TOLI program. Nazariah saves money for her granddaughter's college education. 

I saw the huge impact of a $300 microloan. TOLI clients are providing for their families and making a difference in their communities. They're bringing hope and dignity to others.

“I keep my notes from TOLI’s Business Basics Course so I can evangelize to others,” says Lauren (pictured, left), who started a restaurant in Kenya with her microloan. She’s with her employee.

But it was also clear that with every loan recipient, there’s a line of people waiting to participate in the program. Because of the economic situations and inflation, the need for our services are at an all-time high. Our Partners in the field can grow the TOLI loan program faster than we can provide funds.

You, as a TOLI partner and donor, have consistently shown your passion for this ministry through volunteering, travel, and generous giving. We humbly say, “THANK YOU!” God’s tapped you to make a difference in the lives of someone else.

Now, I ask you to share that passion with your family, friends, and coworkers by asking them to join in the ministry of TOLI, too. We’re boldly asking the Lord to double our monthly donors. Will you pray that God would provide? Will you help us expand our impact by personally sharing your excitement for this ministry with your family, friends, and coworkers?

And if you are not currently a monthly donor, would you consider that today? Monthly donors are TOLI champions. Whether it is $10, $50, or $500 per month, you are key to breaking the cycle of poverty and transforming whole communities with the Gospel and a microloan.

Thank you for your passionate support of TOLI and the people we serve. We pray that you are blessed – maybe even transformed – as you serve with us.

Faithfully,
Don Paterson
Executive Director

Resources to share

Here are some resources to help you share. Save this image to your computer, forward the short video "Fulfilled" to a friend, or explore our website for more information and stories of transformation. 

What's the solution to poverty?

The Gospel in everything

“Halima is so close to believing in Jesus,” said Hailu, TOLI Program Associate in Ethiopia, before visiting her business.

Halima is a TOLI entrepreneur in Ethiopia, and for years, her husband Benjamin has prayed fervently for her to know and love the Lord. In July, a TOLI-US team visited Halima, and as they sat in her home and heard her story, they shared about the abundant life and extraordinary love found in Christ. TOLI Field Staff jumped in to explain the Gospel. 

“Do you want to accept the Lord as your personal Savior?” they asked. 

“Yes,” Halima said, smiling.

Halima after accepting the Lord as her Savior!

Halima is a perfect reminder of TOLI's most fundamental why: To introduce others to Jesus. And our how is through microloans. Our Partners say over and over that TOLI not only preaches the Gospel, it shows the Gospel. God heals, God loves, and God meets our needs – sometimes through a microloan. 

TOLI clients experience spiritual growth through our program in different ways.

Some clients, like Halima, accept Jesus in a pronounced, dramatic way. Others slowly learn to lean on him through prayer, trust Him with their business, or return to church after wandering. Others simply learn to trust a Christian for the first time. But in every case, TOLI clients are given access to the Word of God with a copy of their own Bible, along with the ongoing support and unconditional love of Field Staff and Partners.

“Zainahom, a TOLI client, had the idea that we as Christians do not help anyone, and she thought that this was just an ordinary loan, but she was surprised by the [low] interest and surprised by our visits, and her idea of Christians changed completely.”

– Widad, TOLI Social Worker in Egypt

The love of God is powerful— it brings hope, revitalizes relationships, and changes outlooks on life. God is at work! But don’t take our word for it, hear it from TOLI clients themselves.

  • “After the training, I have a changed attitude about myself. I am an important person and God created me with purpose. I’ve learned how to have compassion for others.” // Lelame, shop owner, Ethiopia

  •  “I learned how to be dependent on the Lord.” // Farhana, goat-keeper, Egypt

  •  “My children now have a Bible, and I’m very happy.” // Amany, Egypt

  • “I changed for the better because of the project. I learned how to have my own project, pay installments, and buy and sell goods. But more than that, I accepted Jesus in my life.” // Aeda, seamstress, Egypt

“At TOLI’s Business Basics Course, we read a verse in the Bible that no word of God will ever fail. Now, whatever I do, I put my trust in God.” // Kelvin, dairy farmer, Kenya

So, yes, we believe business growth is the best solution to poverty, and we’ve seen businesses transform lives. But we believe real transformation comes through the Gospel, and we believe that true poverty can't be solved without a relationship with Jesus Christ. Please pray with us that every client, just like Halima, would believe in Jesus as their Lord and Savior. 

WE'RE BACK... THANK YOU FOR PRAYING

This summer, a TOLI team traveled to Kenya and Ethiopia to visit with Partners. We saw clients, encouraged staff, assisted Life Center Ethiopia as they led a widows conference in Ethiopia, and hosted a medical camp in Kenya with KCK. Thanks to our Prayer Team and supporters for covering us in prayer during this journey. 

Your works are wonderful

Created for purpose

“Since I started my business," says Nemmat a TOLI entrepreneur in Egypt, "I feel like I am a precious and valuable person.”

Before an entrepreneur receives a microloan and starts a small business, they attend TOLI’s Business Basics Course. There, Field Staff share Psalm 139. 

"For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well." – Psalm 139:13-14

TOLI Field Staff look at each soon-to-be entrepreneur in the eye and tell them they’re loved. They are valuable. God created each person for a purpose. No matter their circumstances, no matter their material poverty, they’re fearfully and wonderfully made. 

Before joining the TOLI program and starting her own bakery, Nemmat felt useless. But now, she sees herself as a precious and valuable person. 

WATCH Nemmat share her story in a video made by TOLI Social Workers — Emad, Sally, and Heba!

A US TEAM IS IN KENYA AND ETHIOPIA!

Follow along on social media for prayer requests and trip updates. 

Big changes, micro loan

Meeting Mike

Last summer, I was invited into the business of a TOLI entrepreneur in Kenya named Mike. With his twins, Jessie and Tessie, in his arms, he proudly showed me his business. Mike pointed me to a counter filled with food he provides to hungry customers, fresh meat hanging in a butchery, the machine he uses to wash cars, and his system to deliver food to his neighbors. 

“All of this from a $200 microloan?” I asked, amazed. 

Mike and his twins, Jessie and Tessie.

Mike said, “Before, I wanted to grow in so many ways, but I didn’t have the knowledge.”

TOLI’s Business Basics Course gave him the knowledge. He learned skills to expand his business through marketing, saving, management, and customer service. He learned he’s capable, he can overcome obstacles, and the Lord loves him.

“It’s been awesome,” says Mike, “to put into practice what I learned.”

Today, Mike has doubled his income, employs two people (with plans to hire more), is a leader in his community, and leads a Bible study for young men. But what truly struck me about Mike was his confidence, kindness, peace, and big dreams.

So, all this from a microloan?

Through a microloan, business training, Christian discipleship, and your partnership, entrepreneurs like Mike learn how to run a business, provide for their families, grow in confidence, and lead their communities. We’ve seen it happen again and again. 

This month, as the May Match continues, we hope you partner with us to help more entrepreneurs. We don’t know of a more sustainable or effective way to tackle poverty than by helping men and women start small businesses and generate incomes for their families — all while the hope of Jesus ripples out to the whole community.

Will you join us?

With joy,

Audrey Putney,                                                                                                                        Communication and Administrative Coordinator 

Mike receiving a Bible from TOLI Social Worker Mary.

Mike with TOLI Social Worker Casperin.

We’re celebrating...

…God’s faithfulness and provision, answers to prayers, and the generosity of many TOLI donors – like you – who responded to the May Match Appeal!  

Thanks to your generosity, we surpassed our goal, raising a total of $44,183.28 in May. Even better? $40,000 will be matched, so together, we raised $84,183.28 to bring microloans and the Gospel to entrepreneurs around the world. THANK YOU! 

2023 Impact Report

"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. "
— 2 CORINTHIANS 3:17

Dear friends,

TOLI is made up of people, partners, and staff who are passionate about serving the Lord and impacting one life, one family, and one community at a time. We're passionate about fulfilling Christ’s model of discipleship by serving the under-resourced in word and deed.

God is changing lives physically and emotionally through microloans. More than anything, God is changing lives spiritually as local TOLI Field Staff build relationships and share Christ in their communities.

I’m passionate about this ministry and thrilled to be a part of it – serving the Lord for His glory! I hope this annual report shares just a little of that passion and a glimpse into all God is doing through TOLI and our Partners.

Thank you for partnering with TOLI to bring transformation to families around the world.

 

Don Paterson
Executive Director, TOLI 

Transforming lives together

“For we are God's fellow workers. You are God's field, God's building.”
– 1 Corinthians 3:9

When Alemteshay took a TOLI microloan to support her family, she never imagined the depth of support she’d receive from Life Center Ethiopia, TOLI’s Strategic Partner. 

TOLI works hand-in-hand with local, Christ-centered ministries who are called to reach, serve and empower the vulnerable in their communities. TOLI is designed to be a powerful “tool in their toolbox” for Partner Ministries, so they can more effectively reach those God called them to serve.

Life Center Ethiopia implements TOLI’s “Cycle of Hope" to break the cycle of poverty and demonstrate God’s love to widows in Ethiopia. Here's how it works:

As Alemtsehay started her own clothing store, Life Center and TOLI Field Staff provided instruction and encouragement. They taught her how to manage her inventory, set prices, and market her store. They reassured her of her capabilities. They guided her through obstacles and celebrated her success – all while pointing her to the Lord! 

Partners like Life Center are integral to the success of each client. Their wisdom, knowledge, and experience broadens and deepens anything TOLI could do alone.

“Partnership is working together for the same goal and mission to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ. That is what we are doing together with TOLI…We are not alone in the work. Partners help us to make us stronger and better because of the support, experience, and knowledge that they bring to our ministry.”
– Mulu Woldetinsae, Founder and Executive Director of Life Center Ethiopia

Thanks to this partnership, Alemtsehay:  

  • Established a business that provides steady income for her three children

  • Saved money for the first time

  • Grew in confidence in God-given value and capabilities

  • Repaid her first microloan and took a second to expand her business

  • Became a Christian leader who encourages more women to join the program

And Life Center Ethiopia is just one of TOLI's amazing partners reaching people in their communities. Click below to read about partners in Kenya, Uganda, and Egypt.  
 

Join us in this partnership!

Right now, TOLI and Life Center are looking to distribute more microloans and hire a new TOLI Social Worker to lift more people out of material poverty and share the hope of the Gospel. Would you help us meet this need?

Mark you calendars to…

Meet Don Paterson, TOLI's new Executive Director

Drop in for an open house at the TOLI Colorado Springs office to meet Don. There will be appetizers, fellowship, and a time for questions. See you there!

WHEN: Thursday, May 2nd // 5-6:30pm
WHERE: The TOLI office – 5785 North Union Blvd, Colorado Springs, CO

 

Introducing Don, TOLI's new Executive Director

Dear TOLI Family,

After seven years of serving TOLI as a Board Member and Executive Director, the time has come for me to step into a new chapter of ministry. While I am so sad to say goodbye, I am full of gratitude and joy to be able to introduce you to the next leader God sent to shepherd TOLI into its own flourishing next chapter!

After months of prayer, reviewing more than 70 applications, seeking the Holy Spirit, and even more prayer, we’re delighted to introduce Don Paterson as TOLI’s next Executive Director.

Don brings with him deep faith in Jesus, extensive ministry experience, a humble heart, and desire to leave a lasting legacy that brings glory to God. Don has served at the highest levels of world-class organizations, including World Vision and Awana International to name a few. He’s led teams ranging from just a handful to hundreds of staff, serving ministries working in the areas of discipleship, poverty alleviation and development, evangelism, and holistic ministry. Don is particularly adept at leading through important moments of transition and growth. We praise God for placing a call on Don’s heart to bring dignified, sustainable, Christ-centered transformation through TOLI.

Thank you for continuing to pray for TOLI and our team as we all work to ensure a smooth transition. We can’t wait to see what God has in store.

With gratitude and joy,
Abigail 

A message from Don

Dear friends, 

First, let me say how excited I am. It’s a privilege to be a part of this ministry and the TOLI family! I believe the mission of TOLI – to provide microloans, share the Gospel, and work with amazing partners – is vital for transformational and sustainable development. 

My goal in every season is to respond to God’s call in my life – to be a life-long disciple of Jesus Christ. My desire is to consistently give witness to God’s love, mercy, grace, forgiveness and faithfulness. I became a Christian at a young age and have seen God’s overwhelming faithfulness to me and my family. My wife of 46 years, the love of my life and best friend, went home to be with the Lord in February 2020 after a one year battle with cancer. Her servant-heart and steadfast faith were a blessing and impact to many. We have three sons and five grandchildren, all who claim Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. Four years ago, I moved to Colorado to be near our youngest and his family.

My desire is to leave a Christ-focused legacy in my family, church, community and anywhere that God asks me to serve for His glory – including TOLI!

After serving in leadership positions at several large corporations, God opened the door for me to transition to full-time ministry. I’ve served in senior and executive leadership roles at World Vision, Awana Clubs International, CSB Ministries, Africa Heart, City Mosaic, as well as in executive church leadership. God has called me to serve at both large and small organizations, with specific opportunities to lead in and through times of major change and transition; in environments of high growth, merger, start-up, repositioning, branding, and leadership transition.

I truly believe God has called me to serve and lead at TOLI.  One of my earnest prayers is that he would allow me to apply the experience and gifts he’s given me to this ministry and empower people to be the best God has for them. It is my hope and prayer that the Lord will use my prayers and experience to accomplish his purposes and plans for TOLI – all for His Glory!

God is always only faithful, and I look forward to what He has in store in the days ahead.

With joy in serving the Lord,
Don Paterson
Executive Director

Stay tuned for opportunities to get to know Don in-person and virtually in the coming months, or drop him a note of welcome!

 

Help fund a TOLI microloan. It's hope that multiplies.