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Widow’s Mite 6.0: Kedrick Scribner Foundation Delivers Healthcare, Skills & Hope to Nigeria’s Fallen Heroes’ Families

WIDOW’S MITE 6.0 | STANDING STRONG, MOVING FORWARD Hosted by Kedrick Scribner Foundation, Inc. June 28–29, 2025 | United Church of Christ in Nigeria AKA HEKAN Church, Mounted Troops Barracks, Ikeja, Lagos

In a world that often overlooks the sacrifices of the unseen, the Kedrick Scribner Foundation Inc. a US NGO responded with purpose and compassion. Widow’s Mite 6.0 was more than an event—it was a lifeline, a celebration of strength, and a movement of healing for the Widows and Orphans Of Nigeria’s Fallen Police Heroes.

Held at The United Church of Christ in Nigeria, AKA HEKAN Church, Mounted Troops Barracks, Ikeja, Lagos, the 2025 edition carried the empowering theme:
“Standing Strong, Moving Forward.”

A Joyful Spirit of Service
The weekend was hosted by renowned Lagos comedian and Master of Ceremonies MC Abilitea, whose blend of humor and heart kept the energy high and the atmosphere warm. He inspired laughter, connection, and moments of joy in the midst of reflection and remembrance.

DAY ONE: Medical Relief, Empowerment, Education, and Celebration

Saturday, June 28

Over 1,000 widows, orphans, and guests gathered for a transformative day dedicated to compassion, healing, and hope. Many journeyed from across Lagos and surrounding communities to receive care, dignity, and the affirmation that their lives matter.

Life-Saving Medical Outreach: Bringing the Clinic to the Community

The robust medical outreach program brought together top medical professionals and health institutions to deliver vital services:

Medical screenings for malaria, hypertension, diabetes, and chronic illnesses

Vision testing and 693 prescription eyeglasses distributed

Hepatitis B screening and awareness

Typhoid and malaria testing with free medications

Counseling and health maintenance education

Emergency referrals for high-risk individuals

Medical Partners Included:

Dr. Adeniran – Ministry of Health/GMAT (Optometrist)

Dr. Akintayo – Ministry of Health, Obalende Primary Health Centre

Dr. Ujoma – Health Matters Incorporated / World Diabetic Foundation, Yaba

Giving Life Through Blood:

In a powerful act of solidarity, Dr. Kedrick Scribner was the first to give blood onsite, helping “Give Life” to those in need. This act set the tone for the medical mission. The Lagos State Blood Transfusion Service (LSBTS), Gbagada was present and active throughout the outreach, offering life-saving opportunities for both donors and recipients.

1,000 Lives Touched Through Health Insurance Enrollment

Partnering with LASHMA, the Foundation enrolled 1,000 vulnerable participants into the Ilera Eko Health Plan, a fully funded, comprehensive insurance scheme.

“This health insurance intervention is not just about medical care—it’s about dignity, about giving these Police Widows and their children and Police Orphans the basic right to live without fear of illness and medical neglect.”

—Dr. Kedrick Scribner

Health Seminars That Heal and Equip

Led by Dr. Olusegun Adebayo Mustapha, Clinical Haematologist at LASUTH, the seminars covered:

Stroke prevention and cardiovascular health

Dangers of high blood pressure

Emergency response techniques and lifestyle risk awareness

Attendees gained life-saving insight on early warning signs, first-aid, and how to manage health challenges with confidence and faith.

Vocational Graduation: A Future Reimagined

Sixty-two widows, orphans, and youth graduated from the Kedrick Scribner Vocational Center after six months of intensive training in:

  • Computer Literacy & Digital Entrepreneurship—27 graduates

•Tailoring & Fashion Design – 15 Graduates

• Bead Making and Accessories – 20 Graduates

Each graduate received a starter kit—bead tools, laptops, or sewing machines—to launch their journey to self-sufficiency.

“Empowerment for us is more than a slogan—it is giving people the tools to rise and thrive.” — Dr. Kedrick Scribner

Graduates proudly displayed their skills in a runway show and exhibition that radiated joy and confidence.

A Message of Purpose: Elder Shawn Green

Elder Shawn Green, Youth Pastor from The Church of the Redeemed of The Lord in Baltimore, Maryland, delivered a keynote titled:
“Loving, Leading, and Lifting Our Children—Even When Life Changes.”

With heartfelt insight, he encouraged parents and caregivers to lead with love and faith, even through grief. His message brought both comfort and renewed courage to many in the audience.

The Widows’ Song: A Gift of Gratitude

Overwhelmed with joy and gratitude, the widows collectively expressed their appreciation in a powerful and emotional moment of song. Their voices lifted in unison, singing in celebration of Dr. Kedrick Scribner, a man they now call family:

“Na our papa be this ooo, we no get another one,
Na our papa be this ooo!”

(This is our father, we don’t have another one, this is our father!)

Their heartfelt tribute honored Dr. Scribner as a source of hope and unwavering support, affirming that his compassion and leadership have left a lasting imprint on their lives.

Care and Comfort in Every Package

At the close of Day One, the Foundation distributed care packages filled with essential household items including spices, noodles, sauces, and a 5-kilogram bag of rice. These gifts provided immediate support and reminded each recipient that their lives, needs, and dignity truly matter.

Hospitality in Action: Feeding the Multitude

Throughout the two-day event, the Foundation fed over 2,000 attendees, including widows, orphans, volunteers, church members, and guests.

Attendees were served hot packaged containers of jollof rice and beef, prepared fresh from a cow purchased specifically for the event. Water and assorted sodas were provided, while children attending seminars received snacks to stay nourished and engaged. The atmosphere reflected generosity, unity, and a deep commitment to community care.

DAY TWO: Thanksgiving, Forgiveness, and Faith

Sunday, June 29
The Power of Forgiveness

Dr. Scribner delivered a sermon inspired by Luke 23:34:

“Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.”

He encouraged the audience to release bitterness and embrace peace through forgiveness.

Dr. Scribner also paid heartfelt tribute to his wife, Victoria Scribner, and children, Kedrick Jr. and Miranda, calling them “the wind beneath this mission.” Their love was visibly expressed as they hugged, supported, and uplifted widows and orphans throughout the weekend—a living example of the KSF Foundation’s core values: love, service, and restoration.

He also expressed sincere gratitude to Pastor Daniel Nuhu, the Board of Elders of The United Church of Christ in Nigeria, AKA HEKAN Church, and OC DSP Yakubu Nyat of the Mounted Troops Barracks, Ikeja, Lagos, for their continued support and collaboration in allowing the Foundation to serve the Widows and Orphans of Nigeria’s Fallen Police Heroes. Also, he appreciated Dr Mark Osa Igiehon for the support he provided, and the staff of the Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA), Mrs. Steve-Sani Jennifer, Ikeja Divisional Coordinator and Mr. Aare Mutiu, Enrolment officer. He also extended his sincere appreciation to Elder Shawn Green of the Church of the Redeemed of the Lord, Baltimore, MD, USA and Dr. Patricia McDougall, who came form the United States to support the widows and orphans.

He also appreciated Master of Ceremonies, MC Abilitea for all the life and entertainment he brought to the event.

“The atmosphere was electric with emotion as widows embraced one another—united not only by shared loss, but by a restored sense of dignity, hope, and renewed purpose.”

He specially thanked the team at the Kedrick Scribner Vocational Center for their dedication and hard work towards making the day successful.

Vision Through the Lens: Photography with Purpose

Dr. Patricia McDougall, CEO of Patricia’s Professional Photos, LLC. led a Youth Photography Class and Visionary Seminar. She taught young participants how to use the camera to capture stories of resilience and purpose. Her mentorship created a powerful connection between youth in Baltimore and Lagos, symbolizing the Foundation’s global mission.

Looking Ahead: Widow’s Mite 7.0 — “Story to Glory”

January 24–25, 2026 | United Church of Christ in Nigeria (HEKAN), Ikeja
Widow’s Mite 7.0 will celebrate stories of triumph—women rising from hardship through testimony, training, and shared purpose.

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How KSF is Empowering Nigeria’s Widows and Orphans, Rewriting Stories of Loss

Life changed forever for a young girl in Lagos, Nigeria, when her father, a dedicated officer in the Nigeria Police Force, passed away 13 years ago. Left with her mother and five siblings, she’s faced hardship beyond her years. “It has not been easy,” she shares in a tearful interview. “Sometimes we go to bed hungry. But we still have hope.”

Her story is just one among many touched by the Kedrick Scribner Foundation (KSF), a charity dedicated to restoring dignity and hope to widows, orphans, and underserved communities. Founded in 2020 by Dr. Kedrick Scribner, a U.S. veteran and minister, Kedrick Scribner Foundation was born out of compassion after he met widows of fallen Nigerian police officers while attending the academy at The Police College, Ikeja.

Through the Widows Mite initiative, KSF hosts biannual support events in Lagos, offering food, healthcare, and essential services. In one deeply moving case, KSF helped a sick widow return to her village, 28 hours from Lagos, after ensuring her family was fed and safe.

KSF’s impact extends further with a free vocational center launched in 2023, training over 500 people in ICT and tailoring. Their work is not just about charity—it’s about empowerment.

The Kedrick Scribner Foundation (KSF), established in 2020 and registered in both the U.S. and Nigeria, is a non-profit focused on uplifting underprivileged individuals. Inspired by widows of fallen Nigerian police officers, founder Dr. Kedrick Scribner launched the “Widows Mite” initiative, providing biannual support events in Lagos. KSF also built a free vocational center in 2023, training over 700 beneficiaries in ICT, tailoring, and bead making. The foundation collaborates with partners to offer education, medical aid, and empowerment for widows, children, and U.S. veterans. KSF’s mission is to restore hope and dignity to vulnerable families through compassion, skills development, and sustained support.

They currently have 130 students in Tailoring, 120 students in bead making, and over 160 students in ICT.

With the motto “Serving people is what we do because we love,” KSF stands as a beacon of love, turning sorrow into strength. Visit www.kedrickscribnerfoundation.org to learn how you can be part of this mission of hope.our story:

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Kedrick Scribner Foundation and Dr. Tyrone Taborn To Explore Possibilities of Launching Groundbreaking STEM Conference in Nigeria

The Kedrick Scribner Foundation Inc., a United States nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering Nigerians through sustainable initiatives, is inviting Dr. Tyrone D. Taborn, Publisher and Chairman of Career Communications Group Inc., to Nigeria. Dr. Taborn’s visit aims to explore the possibility of establishing a STEM conference inspired by the prestigious BEYA STEM Conference, which focuses on creating career opportunities in technology and engineering for Nigerians.

Kedrick Scribner and Miranda having a memorable time with some of the widows at the Widows Mite’s 5.0 event

In conjunction with this initiative, the Kedrick Scribner Foundation recently celebrated the successful conclusion of Widow’s Mite 5.0: “Widow’s Rejoice,” held on January 18, 2025, at the Lagos Marriott Hotel Ikeja. The theme “Widow’s Rejoice” encapsulated the event’s purpose: celebrating resilience and providing essential support. Over 300 widows received care packages containing 25 kg of rice, spices, vegetable oil, and other provisions, ensuring their sustenance for months. Attendees were warmly greeted and given a chance to share their stories, fostering a sense of community and solidarity.

Dr. Kedrick Scribner, Founder and CEO of The Kedrick Scribner Foundation Inc., engaged personally with attendees, offering hugs, handshakes, and heartfelt prayers. He made the rounds at every table, taking pictures, sharing moments of joy, and waving to all the widows and orphans present. His genuine compassion and tears of joy were a testament to the Foundation’s dedication to uplifting the lives of widows and orphans of Nigeria’s Fallen Heroes.

The Kedrick Scribner Foundation has long been instrumental in supporting the widows of The Fallen Heroes Of The Nigerian Police Force. The upcoming Widow’s Mite 6.0 event, scheduled for June 27-29, 2025, aims to renew health insurance for 700 widows and extend coverage to an additional 300 widows and orphans. This event will also feature a seminar on mental health, family dynamics, strokes, and heart health.

In January 2024, Dr. Scribner inaugurated a FREE Vocational Training Center at HEKAN Church, Mounted Troops Barracks, Ikeja, Lagos. This center offers free 6 to 12 month training in ICT, tailoring, fashion design, and bead-making, benefiting over 700 individuals, with 500 currently enrolled in ongoing programs.

Pastor Mark Burns and Dr. Kedrick Scribner

Dr. Taborn’s visit, planned for March 12-19, 2025, will include venue tours and discussions on launching a STEM conference modeled after the BEYA STEM Conference and Women of Color STEM Conference. This initiative seeks to connect Nigerians with prominent companies such as Actalent, Lockheed Martin, Medtronic, Boeing, Northrop Grumman, and Boston Scientific, which are eager to tap into global talent. The proposed conference would offer Nigerians a unique opportunity to engage with top employers through career fairs, seminars, and recruitment events.

Historically, the BEYA STEM DTX™ Conference has served as a key platform for students, professionals, and employers in the STEM fields to connect and celebrate excellence. Featuring extensive career fairs and training sessions, it has successfully placed thousands of engineers and scientists in the workforce. Establishing a similar initiative in Nigeria could unlock unprecedented career and development opportunities for aspiring professionals.

The potential establishment of a BEYA-style STEM conference in Nigeria marks a significant step in connecting Nigerian talent with international employment opportunities and educational prospects abroad. This initiative aligns with global efforts to diversify the STEM industry and empower underrepresented communities through education, mentorship, and career placement.

Military.com Report and Pastor Mark Burns’ Input

Dr. Kedrick Scribner expressed his enthusiasm for the conference, stating, “Nigeria is a land brimming with untapped talent, and I believe it deserves a world-class platform to showcase and cultivate that talent. Bringing the BEYA-style STEM conference to Nigeria is more than just an event—it’s about opening doors, providing opportunities, and transforming lives.”

With over 25 years of involvement with the BEYA STEM Conference, Dr. Scribner has witnessed its profound impact on fostering STEM excellence. He noted, “BEYA embodies the essence of ‘Becoming Everything You Are,’ which is vital for uplifting underrepresented communities.”

Pastor Mark Burns

Pastor Mark Burns, who delivered the keynote speech “Power To Transform Our Society” at the 2025 BEYA Stars & Stripes Award Ceremony, also emphasized the importance of STEM education. He highlighted the Trump administration’s commitment to restoring funding for BEYA, recognizing its critical role in national security and technological advancement.

Recently, Military.com reported on challenges faced by the BEYA STEM Conference following funding cuts and decreased military recruitment efforts. Pastor Burns, a prominent White House surrogate, attended the conference and engaged with students and recruiters, pledging support for expanding BEYA’s reach.

HBCU Deans and the Expansion of BEYA to Africa

Victor R. McCrary, Jr., Vice President for Research and Professor of Chemistry at the University of the District of Columbia, emphasized the importance of BEYA in attracting talent for the defense industrial base. Over 30 HBCU Deans of Engineering attended the conference, underscoring HBCUs’ vital role in producing top STEM talent.

Dr. Tyrone Taborn with Olakunle Arowolo, Director of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at Actalent

Olakunle Arowolo, Director of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at Actalent, highlighted the potential for expanding the BEYA-style STEM conference to Africa, particularly Nigeria. He stated, “Bringing the BEYA-style STEM conference to Africa would enhance opportunities for STEM talent to integrate into engineering and science-based industries.”

Dr. Tyrone Taborn stressed the importance of prioritizing skilled professionals in STEM fields, reflecting the need for employers to provide access, opportunity, and skill-building for top talent.

African engineers will lead in energy, fintech, minerals, and cybersecurity at the proposed STEM Conference, connecting American companies with Nigerian talent.

For more information on the Kedrick Scribner Foundation Inc. and its ongoing initiatives, visit kedrickscribnerfoundation.org. To learn more about Career Communications Group and the BEYA STEM Conference, visit blackengineer.com and ccgmag.com.

(Left) Pastor Mark Burns and (Right) Dr. Tyrone Taborn stand before hundreds of ROTC students at the 39th BEYA STEM Conference, empowering future leaders in STEM and service
ROTC students at the BEYA STEM Conference, engaging in mentorship and networking opportunities to prepare for future careers in leadership, military service, and STEM
Pastor Mark Burns, President Trump’s surrogate, alongside Dr. Tyrone Taborn and a distinguished group of retired Admirals and Generals at the BEYA STEM Conference
Retired U.S. Army three-star General William E. ‘Kip’ Ward, the inaugural Commander of U.S. Africa Command, sharing valuable advice with ROTC recruits on military leadership and STEM opportunities at the BEYA STEM Conference
ROTC students at the BEYA STEM Conference, engaging in mentorship and networking opportunities to prepare for future careers in leadership, military service, and STEM
Attendees lining up to enter the career fair at the 39th BEYA STEM Conference
Retired Navy Fighter Pilot Matt Bowman, Pastor Mark Burns, and Kedrick Scribner stand alongside HBCU Deans from universities across the United States at the 39th BEYA STEM Conference, celebrating leadership, innovation, and the future of STEM education.” ucation.
Dr. Tyrone Taborn discusses the transformative impact of the BEYA STEM Conference in an insightful interview with Jordan Davis, US Correspondent for the Swiss Broadcasting Corporation.
Kedrick Scriber Foundation Vocational Center
Kedrick Scriber Foundation Vocational Center