In a demonstration of the power of collaboration, THRIVE Gulu has flourished over the years thanks to its fruitful partnership with Save the Children. This partnership has not only resulted in significant pre-positioning and financial support but has also played a pivotal role in strengthening THRIVE Gulu’s systems and staff capacity, leading to remarkable achievements and impactful programing.

The journey began in 2015 when SCI entrusted THRIVE Gulu with funding amounting to UGX 320,514,720 ($ 86,271) for a start implementation period of four years. During this period, THRIVE Gulu utilized this support to enhance its finance systems, governance, and programs. This solid foundation enabled Thrive to secure a grant from USAID’s SAFE program, further expanding its reach to Odek Sub County in Omoro district and Koch Goma in Nwoya district.

Building on this success, SCI extended its support to THRIVE Gulu with a substantial amount of UGX 1.7billion for the period of 2019-2021. During this phase, THRIVE Gulu focused on strengthening its Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) systems, financial reporting, donor compliance, and business development capacity.

The organization also prioritized enhancing the skills and capabilities of its board and staff members, positioning itself strategically to attract additional funding opportunities. The impact of this partnership became evident as THRIVE Gulu secured funding from various renowned institutions. Trocaire, with Irish Aid as its main donor, allocated EUROS 380,925 for 2019-2021, enabling THRIVE Gulu to expand its operations to assist South Sudanese refugees in Palabek settlement, operating within a humanitarian context.

In 2020, THRIVE Gulu successfully competed for funding from Comic Relief’s Sports for Mental Health-Ahead of the Game initiative. This funding, totaling £334,997.00 over a period of four years, facilitated the development of the innovative Dance + Therapy program aimed at reducing depression, anxiety, stress, and suicidal thoughts among youths and adults.

Continuing its winning streak, THRIVE Gulu secured funding from the United Nations Trust Fund to End Violence against Women in 2021, receiving USD 498,684 over a period of three years. This enabled the organization to expand its operations in post-conflict and humanitarian settings, particularly focusing on serving women and girls at risk of violence. In 2022, THRIVE Gulu’s excellence was recognized yet again as it won grants from organizations such as International Research and Exchanges Board, Inc. (IREX) and CARE International.

In 2023 and 2024, THRIVE Gulu continued to attract significant funding, including grants from Education Cannot Wait and AstraZeneca, further fueling its impactful initiatives. Throughout this period of growth and success, THRIVE Gulu maintained a sterling record with no cases of disallowed expenses, fraud, or mismanagement of funds.

This achievement is credited to Save the Children’s comprehensive training programs, which equipped THRIVE Gulu’s staff with essential skills in fraud prevention, safeguarding, and child protection.