The Moulakis Library at the American University of Iraq, Sulaimani (AUIS) has successfully completed the third annual Summer of Hope Project, a two-month initiative that empowered thirty orphaned children in Sulaimani through education, awareness, and creativity.
What makes this year remarkable is not only the program itself but also the journey that made it possible. When the project’s original funding was withdrawn due to U.S. suspensions, the future of the Summer of Hope was suddenly at risk. “The worst part wasn’t losing the funding,” explained Ms. Halbast, Library Manager and Project Director. “It was telling the orphans they might not come back to their summer classes at all.”
Determined to keep the program alive, Ms. Halbast and Mr. Erik Gustafson, Executive Director of the Enabling Peace in Iraq Center (EPIC), launched a global crowdfunding campaign. In just one month, the campaign raised nearly half of the required funds. To close the gap, Ms. Halbast approached the Vim Foundation, which stepped in to fully fund the remaining amount. In total, $20,000 was raised, securing this year’s program and ensuring the continuation of the Summer of Hope in 2026.
Running from June 15 to August 6, the Summer of Hope offered ten different lessons and activities, tailored to children ages 4–18. These included:

1. English classes to build communication and confidence.
2. Reading and discussion circles to encourage critical thinking.
3. Art lessons and jewelry-making to foster creativity and entrepreneurship.
4. Life-skills and awareness workshops on health, leadership, and personal safety.
5. Yoga and meditation for mindfulness and mental well-being.
6. Environmental awareness and recycling to cultivate responsibility.
7. Chess and ballet to strengthen focus, teamwork, and discipline.

The program concluded with a celebratory closing ceremony at AUIS, where the children proudly presented what they had learned. Participants showcased artwork, jewelry, and recycling projects, shared personal reflections, and ended with a moving ballet performance.
One participant, Tara, described her experience:
“I have participated in this project, which is really meaningful and beneficial. Our teachers are great, and the staff here is very respectful and takes care of us very well.”
Children also gave presentations on the environment, teamwork, and their personal achievements, highlighting how the program built not just skills, but confidence and hope for the future.
Once orphans in Iraq reach the age of 18, the government and society often leave them without structured support. This reality inspired Ms. Halbast to launch the Summer of Hope in 2023 as a community initiative of the Moulakis Library. “This program is about giving orphans not just classes for two months, but the tools, life skills, and self-belief to shape their own futures,” she said.
Looking ahead, the project also aims to secure long-term sponsorships for orphans to study at well-known universities and to support them in finding meaningful jobs aligned with their talents and passions. This vision ensures that the Summer of Hope is not just about short-term learning but about preparing a generation of young people to thrive and contribute to society.
The success of this year’s program was made possible through tireless voluntary work and strong partnerships. Special thanks go to Mr. Erik Gustafson (EPIC) for his dedication and to the Vim Foundation, EPIC, and Iraqi Children Foundation (ICF) for their generous financial support, and to Agora Vision for assistance with promoting the fundraising campaign. The project also received strong encouragement from Dr. Bilal A. Wahab, President of AUIS, as well as AUIS directors, staff, and community members.
Ms. Halbast also extended her gratitude to the instructors, volunteers, and library assistant Mr. Sardam Akram, who all went beyond the classroom to guide, inspire, and care for the children.
The Summer of Hope Project demonstrates the power of collaboration, resilience, and vision. What began as a small initiative in 2023 has grown into a model of community engagement at AUIS. With $20,000 secured for both this year and next, and with a growing focus on university sponsorships and career pathways, the program is building a foundation of stability ensuring that hope, education, and opportunity continue to flourish for orphaned children in Kurdistan. Ultimately, investing in our children, all children, is an investment in a better, more prosperous future for everyone in Kurdistan and beyond.

Support the Next Generation
To learn more about supporting Summer of Hope, sponsoring an orphan, or partnering with the Moulakis Library's community initiatives, contact:
Ms. Halbast Abdullah
Library Manager & Summer of Hope Project Director
Moulakis Library, American University of Iraq, Sulaimani
Email: [email protected] or [email protected]