Donna Neimeister

Hello, My name is Donna Neimeister. After coming to Africa on many short-term trips, I felt God’s pull to move there permanently. So I packed up my 12 suitcases and in 2022 I moved into a rural village in Uganda. My passion has always been to help others in any way that I can. Little did I know that God would develop that passion and the growing needs that I could see and not see yet into the building of The OLUGENDO COMMUNITY CENTER. Through the hard work and help of local Ugandans, the Center opened in August 2025.

Our hope is that the OCC will continue to develop into a community hub for the surrounding villages. A place dedicated to helping youth and adults grow, learn, and thrive. The VISION is to be a place where everyone is seen, loved, and uplifted so they can CHOOSE THEIR OLUGENDO (JOURNEY). Through programs such as life skills training, discipleship, English classes, farming education, business training, vocational skills development, and community outreach, we will equip individuals and families with practical tools to improve their lives. The center will also continue to host special events such as medical and dental clinics and community gatherings. In the short time we have been here we have also created opportunities for employment, mentorship and have helped to build many meaningful relationships.

As we continue to grow and strive to build a healthier community we are investing in projects that will serve even more people. Future plans include developing a football (soccer) field to attract and engage local youth, as well as creating a welcoming space where Jajjas (elderly community members) can gather, build friendships, and feel valued and included.

I would like to invite you to partner with us as we continue this work. Please pray for us as we build our staff and programs. Pray for the young person looking for direction, the mother who finds life to be overwhelming, the father who needs to find dignity as he tries to support his family and the Jajja hoping for companionship and care. We also ask you to consider financially supporting the OCC so together we can create opportunities, share hope and transform lives. Thank you for being part of this OLUGENDO (journey).