Sewing Machines, Baking Kits, and Discipleship: A Faith-Fueled Partnership in Uganda

Masindi, Uganda — July 14, 2025

At Vassar & Company Properties (VCP), we believe business should be a force for good one that uplifts communities, restores dignity, and creates lasting change. That’s why we’re proud to support the transformative work of J. Lee Grady and his team at The Mordecai Project, a global ministry dedicated to empowering women through vocational training, faith-based discipleship, and economic opportunity.

On July 14, more than 50 women graduated from The Mordecai Project’s vocational training program in Masindi, Uganda. These women completed six months of intensive instruction in tailoring and baking receiving not only diplomas, but the tools to launch their own businesses. Tailoring graduates were awarded sewing machines, while baking graduates received full kits with pans and supplies to begin bakeries or food trucks.

“We’ve found that empowering women to start small businesses is the most effective way to end poverty in developing countries,” said Vanessa Theriault, Managing Partner of Vassar & Company Properties. “These women are now equipped to support their families, serve their communities, and walk boldly in their faith.”

Beyond vocational training, every woman was discipled in her faith rooted in the teachings of Jesus and empowered to live out her calling in her community. The Mordecai Project is committed equipping women to rise with strength, live with dignity, and lead with purpose anchored in faith and fueled by the Gospel.

This milestone in Uganda is part of a broader global effort. Construction is nearly complete on a women’s empowerment center in Pakistan, and shelters are underway in Congo, Malawi, Uganda, Tanzania, and El Salvador each designed to provide safety, training, and hope for women facing systemic poverty and abuse.

Why It Matters to Us

At VCP, our investments go beyond real estate. We’re committed to purpose-driven entrepreneurship supporting initiatives that align with our values of service, dignity, and faith. Partnering with The Mordecai Project allows us to extend that mission globally, helping women become agents of change in their own communities.

We celebrate this moment not just as donors, but as believers in the power of faith-infused business to transform lives.

Learn More & Get Involved

To learn more about supporting the incredible work of J. Lee Grady and The Mordecai Project, visit: https://themordecaiproject.org/

Together, we can build more than properties we can build futures that allow women to rise!

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