Photo by RET Ecuador, © RET International

February reminds us why our work matters every single day. Around the world, we’re expanding access to education, strengthening protection, and creating pathways to dignity and opportunity…  

Because education and protection don’t just change lives, they save them. Here’s what we’ve been up to across our global community 👇 

📸 Photo of the Month

This month’s cover photo was taken in Quito, Ecuador. Abraham is 7 years old and participates in our activities implemented through the Multi-Year Resilience Program: EstudiANDO, funded by Education Cannot Wait. His parents and grandmother migrated from Cuba a year before he was born. 

Since the age of 6, he has attended our academic support and reinforcement sessions, where our team guides his learning to strengthen his confidence and abilities in school. In the image, Abraham receives a school supply kit that helps ensure his continued education and his right to learn. 

His grandmother is always with him, celebrating every step forward and reminding us of the value of family commitment in the educational journey of children, especially in contexts of human mobility. To learn more about this project, click here:  https://theret.org/ecuador/ 

In this edition: 

1. International Day of Education: How Education Saves Lives 
2. Lebanon: Empowering Women through Art and Creativity 
3. Niger: Turning Risk into Resilience  
4. Ecuador, and Education in Action with EstudiANDO 
5. How YOU Can Make a Difference 

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1. International Day of Education: Saving Lives Through Learning 

On International Day of Education (January 24), we reflected on the truth that guides our work everywhere: Education saves lives. Education protects children from exploitation, gives young people choices, and strengthens entire communities. When learning continues, even in crisis, hope does too. 

At RET, education is never just about classrooms. It’s about safety, dignity, and opportunity. It’s about ensuring that every child and young person has the tools to shape their future and contribute to peace and stability in their communities. 

👉 Read more by clicking here.

2. Lebanon: Empowering Women Through Art  

In Lebanon, we’re supporting women to refine their artistic skills – from painting and drawing to weaving, sewing, and handmade crafts. In this way, we’re turning creativity into confidence and opportunity. These workshops help women strengthen their talents, connect with one another, and build pathways toward income and independence. 

The impact speaks for itself. In this video, participants share how art has helped them reclaim their voices, develop marketable skills, and feel part of a supportive community. Creativity here is more than expression; it’s empowerment. 

👉 Watch the video here or by clicking below.

3. Niger: Turning Risk into Resilience in Maradi

In Maradi, Niger, our teams spent 2025 strengthening protection systems for children, youth, and families facing insecurity and vulnerability. Through training, community engagement, and coordinated responses, we worked to reduce risks and reinforce local capacities. 

The result: Stronger protection mechanisms, better-informed communities, and safer environments for those most at risk. This work shows how prevention, local leadership, and sustained presence can turn exposure to harm into long-term resilience. 

👉 Read the full story here. 

4. Ecuador: Education That Opens Doors with EstudiANDO  

In Ecuador, our teams, together with Education Cannot Wait, are helping children stay in school and thrive through the EstudiANDO project. This initiative strengthens access to quality education, supports teachers, and creates inclusive learning environments across the country. 

In this video, you’ll see how education is transforming classrooms and futures – helping children build confidence, skills, and a sense of belonging. When education continues, even in challenging contexts, lives are changed for the better. 

👉 Watch the video here or by clicking below.

5. 🎁 How YOU Can Make a Difference 

Inspired by these stories? You can help us continue this life-saving work. 

Your support allows us to expand education, strengthen protection, and respond to where needs are greatest.  

💡 For U.S. supporters: RET is registered as a 501(c)(3), and your donation may be tax-deductible. 

👉 Donate today: https://theret.org/donate 
👉 Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs): http://theret.org/donate/dafs/ 
👉 Employee & corporate matching: http://theret.org/donate/employee-matching/ 

Thank you for being part of our global community! Together, we’re saving lives, changing futures, and building hope. 

Until next month,

RET International HQ

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