Community Development

Our impact extends beyond our students to the communities we engage with.

By partnering with local organizations and stakeholders, GLI supports sustainable development initiatives that address community needs and enhance local capacities.

Together, we create lasting change, promoting mutual understanding and collaboration. GLI is committed to fostering a global network of empowered individuals and thriving communities, united in their pursuit of a better future.

Public Health

GLI’s Awamu Campaign encompasses several public health initiatives dedicated to strengthening healthcare systems in Uganda through strong partnerships and community-driven action. Through education, community outreach, and linkage to care, Awamu empowers communities while advancing health equity.

Our Approach

GLI takes a two-pronged path to improve public health outcomes and systems:

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Direct Support

Large-scale awareness campaigns, screening, and last-mile services that connect individuals to care.

Global Education

Preparing the next generation of global health leaders through education and real-world experiences.

Public Health Programs Focus

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Non-Communicable Diseases

Our work in NCDs includes lifestyle modification programs, community exercise and nutrition initiatives, and collaborations with hospitals to improve blood pressure, diabetes management and CKD prevention. With guidance from Bridge of Life, we continue to build self-monitoring groups and expand preventive care.

Mental Health Facilitation

In partnership with the National Board of Certified Counselors (NBCC), we train community members to serve as mental health facilitators. This grassroots approach strengthens referral systems and ensures ongoing support for individuals facing mental health challenges.

Down Syndrome Program

With support from the Global Down Syndrome Foundation, we celebrate inclusion through events like World Down Syndrome Day and build networks of local partners dedicated to supporting individuals with Down syndrome and their families.

Student Engagement

GLI leads U.S. undergraduate and medical students on immersive public health programs in Uganda and Rwanda.

The program familiarizes students with local and global health issues, healthcare inequalities, and foreign-funded interventions. Students meet with national and local health professionals, and may engage in clinical practice, public health interventions, and research projects that complement their academic curricula. Trips range from 10 days (typically undergraduate) to 4 weeks (typically pre-med, medical students and post-graduates).

Agriculture

At Entusi's model farm, GLI trains local farmers on best farming practices, enhancing efficiency and production. We also teach crop diversification, including fruits and vegetables, to promote healthy diets and combat diseases.

In 2025, GLI worked with a group of 33 local farmers, whose efforts helped keep the farm active through planting, maintenance, and food production. In turn, the farm supported local learning in sustainable agriculture practices, contributed to local ingredient sourcing and kitchen support for Entusi, and connected community development, sustainability, and student learning as a fixture of GLI programs.

School Boat

Since 2017, GLI has provided safe transport by boat for students attending school on Bwama Island. Each day of the school year, our team transports 280 students to school, ensuring more classroom time and improved educational outcomes.

Swim Lessons

On Saturday mornings at Entusi, dozens of children, ages 5-10, participate in free swim lessons to enhance water safety and safeguard lives in Lake Bunyonyi communities.

In 2025, over 100 children graduated from this program with new swimming skills, greater confidence, and essential life skills.