About us

CARO PROFILE

The Centre for Advancing Rural Opportunity (CARO GHANA) was legally registered as a Non- Profit- Making Organization in line with the provisions of Sections 12 and 15 of the Companies Act, Act 992 of 2019 as a limited by guarantee on 28th July, 2011 with registration number CG120030221 and was duly issued a certificate to commence business on the 29th of July, 2011 and the Department of Social Development with registration number DSD/6482. Today, CARO Ghana is transforming the lives of women, children, and other vulnerable groups across the eleven (11) districts in the Upper West Region with its head office located in the WA Municipality.

VISION AND MISSION

Vision: To see a society of peace and dignity, where everyone, everywhere have equal access
to resources and opportunities for development.
Mission: Working in partnership to empower communities, and to promote the well-being of
people in society for a resilient and sustainable community development.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

  • To advocate for access to quality health care and WASH services in rural communities.
  • To give a voice to and promote the rights of women, children and marginalized groups
    in society.
  • To advocate in collaboration with other development partners for poverty alleviation in
    poor communities.
  • To empower women and promote youth development for sustainable livelihoods.
  • To promote democracy and foster social accountability for inclusive governance.
  • To promote peace, security and integration for social cohesion in society.

AREAS OF OPERATION

  • Health and Nutrition
  • Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH)
  • Human Rights Advocacy (Gender inclusion, PWDs, Gender-Based Violence (GBV)
  • Youth Development and Entrepreneurship
  • Peace and Security and Social Integration.
  • Social Accountability and Good Governance
  • Empowerment and Micro enterprising. (Women Empowerment)

CATCHMENT AREA

CARO operates across all 11 districts in the upper west region of Ghana and will extend its Programmes
and activities to other regions when the need be.

CORE VALUES

  • Trust will ensure and build common trust between us and our constituents as well as
    with our partners.
  • Mutual Respect- To engender cordiality in the work we do, we shall respect each other’s
    views with the understanding that it is only when we disagree that best alternative
    decisions will be made to bring about progress. We shall allow all to have a say.
  • Equity and Justice- To work to ensure equal opportunities to all and sundry, irrespective
    of race, age, gender, social status, economic status, HIV status, religion, ethnicity,
    disability etc.
  • Transparency and Accountability- We will at all time, without any compromise ensure
    that transparency and accountability over ride all our transactions amongst ourselves
    and the poor people we work with.
  • Gender and Social Inclusion- In all our dealings we will take into consideration the role
    of both men and women in a way that gives them equal opportunities. We will design
    and implement Programmes and activities that improve the economic and social
    capacities of women and children with the aim of reaching gender parity.

CENTER FOR ADVANCING RURAL OPPORTUNITY

WHO WE ARE?

The Centre for Advancing Rural Opportunity (CARO) is a youth-led community development organization dedicated to empowering communities and promoting the well-being of society for a resilient and sustainable community development. We believe in the inherent strength and potential of every individual and strive to create opportunities that enable them to thrive. Through collaborations and partnerships, education and advocacy, we work to uplift marginalised voices, foster inclusive environments and drive positive social change. Our commitments to empowering communities is rooted in compassion, empathy and a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of our shared humanity. Together, we can create a brighter future where every person has the opportunity to flourish and contribute to a thriving society.

History of CAROGhana

CARO GHANA is a youth-led and community development organization birthed by a group of young fervent university graduates, who witnessed poverty, illiteracy and disease burden in rural communities during a 1-year mandatory national service program in the WA West District of the Upper West region of Ghana. Upon a deeper reflection of the situation, they committed to helping alleviate poverty and reduce the disease burden in those communities through advocacy. After several years of education and sensitization, there was a need to broaden its scope to include other sectors of development to contribute to the Global response towards reducing poverty, illiteracy, disease and injustice and to advocate for access to quality health care delivery services in rural communities to impact more lives.

01

Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH)

Through our Social and Behavior change communication (SBCC) and Advocacy programmes, we work in partnership with stakeholders in the areas of Community-Led Total Sanitation (CLTS), Hand Washing with Soap (HWWS), Menstrual hygiene management (MHM), WASH in Institutions (Health and Schools), Integrated Water and Resource Management (IWRM) and Advocacy on WASH policies and laws.
At CARO We are committed to improving lives through water sanitation and hygiene initiatives. We believe that access to clean water, proper sanitation facilities and hygiene education are fundamental human rights and essential for individual and community well-being. Our values revolve around equity, sustainability and empowerment. We strive to ensure equitable access to safe water and sanitation for all, regardless of socioeconomic status or geographic location. We priorities sustainable solutions that protect and preserve water resources while also addressing the specific needs and cultural context of
the communities we serve.

02

Health

Our key areas under health programs include; Adolescent reproductive health and rights (ARHR) education, Maternal and Child Health (RCN), Immunization, Mental Health, Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and Health advocacy.
We transform lives through health focused initiatives. Our value proposition centers around providing accessible high quality healthcare services promoting preventive care and advocating for equitable health outcomes. We strive to make a meaningful impact by collaborating with communities, healthcare providers and policy makers. Our value lies in our commitment to improving health outcomes for all individuals regardless of their background or circumstances. Through innovative programs, education and awareness campaigns, we empower individuals to take control of their health and well-being. By advocating for healthcare equity and working towards eliminating barriers to access, we aim to create a healthier, more resilient society. Together, we envision a future where everyone has the opportunity to lead a healthy and fulfilling life.

01

Women Empowerment and Social Enterprising

Our women empowerment initiatives include; Village Savings and Loans Associations (VSLA), women small-holder agribusiness, skills training and small business enhancement, education on rights and opportunities. As a nonprofit organization, we possess the capabilities to empower rural women and enable them to earn a sustainable living. Our expertise lies in understanding the unique challenges faced by rural women and designing tailored programs to address their specific needs. We offer comprehensive skills training, entrepreneurship development and access to resources that equip women with the knowledge and tools to start their own businesses or secure employment opportunities. Our network of mentors and support systems provide ongoing guidance and mentorship to ensure their success. Additionally, we collaborate with local stakeholders and organizations to create a supportive ecosystem that foster economic empowerment for rural women. By combining our deep understanding of rural communities, our proven methodologies, and our commitment to gender equality and equity.

02

Governance and Social Accountability

We focus on empowering communities to demand accountability, transparency and responsiveness in social services delivery through the use of social accountability tools such as the community score card (CSC) and public expenditure tracking (PETS) from duty bearers. Sensitization on government policies and programs, advocacy and Vision mapping in communities. We are driven by a deep commitment to governance, citizen participation and social accountability. We firmly believe that a strong democracy and inclusive society are built upon active citizen engagement and transparent governance practices. Our mission is to empower individuals and communities to actively participate in decision-making processes, ensuring their voices are heard and their perspectives valued. We strive to promote accountability and integrity in public institutions, creating opportunities for citizens to actively monitor and influence policy-making and resource allocation. Through our
programs, advocacy and capacity-building initiatives, we aim to foster a culture of transparency, trust and collaborations between citizens and government. Together, we are working towards a society where every person has the knowledge, skills and platform to contribute to the governance processes
that shape their lives.

03

Entrepreneurship and Youth Development

At the core of our youth development programs are; Digital and entrepreneurial skills training, Youth Resource Centre, Training of youth in Advocacy and empowerment. At CARO, we wholeheartedly, believe in the transformative power of youth development. We are
dedicated to empowering young individuals to unlock their full potential, fostering their personal growth and nurturing their unique talents. Through our comprehensive programs, mentorship and resources, we strive to create a safe and inclusive environment where young people can thrive, discover their passions and gain the necessary skills to become future leaders. We are committed to equipping them with tools they need to navigate challenges, make positive choices, and contribute meaningfully to their communities. Together, we are shaping a brighter future by investing in the development and success of
our youth.

03

Peace, Security and Integration

Our work on peace and security focus on building social cohesion and positive relationships in communities. Using social and cultural platforms to foster peaceful coexistence in communities through education, sensitization and behavior change strategies in the wake of activities of Violent Extremist Organization’s (VEOs). We are driven by a profound dedication to peace, security and the integration of minority groups. We firmly believe in the power of diversity and inclusivity to create harmonies and resilient societies. Our mission is to promote understanding, tolerance, and social cohesion by addressing the unique challenges faced by minority communities. We work tirelessly to ensure their rights, safety and dignity are protected, while fostering an environment of acceptance and appreciation for cultural differences. Through advocacy, education, and community engagement, we strive to break down barriers, challenge stereotypes and build bridges between different ethnic, religious, and linguistic groups. We actively collaborate with governments, civil society and local communities to create policies and initiatives that promote the full integration of minority groups, enabling them to contribute their talents and perspectives to society. Together, we are committed to creating a world where every individual, regardless of their background can live in peace, security, and mutual respect.

Testimonail

After several years of operations, the impact we see in our operational communities is the fuel we need to keek going

CAROGhana made me realised I have all around me to give my child the best development. They took me through simple maternal health practices that has led me to have a peaceful post delivery which enable me to take care my beautiful daughter in the best of ways possible.
Roseline Dery
Mother
As a nurse, the support we have get from CAROGhana has enable us provide to the best of our ability healthcareto the people in our CHPS compound catchment area. The constant logistics your organisation provides to our facility is a game changer.
Fatima Yahaya
Nurse
56

COMMUNITIES

45000

People

14

Years of Operations

15

Projects

Our Sponsors

We appreciate the support of all our sponsors. Come join us to create more impact