One of the keys to AFCECO’s progress has been its inclusiveness; any individual or organization within Afghanistan and around the world ascribing to the basic tenets of AFCECO’s mission are welcome to become a part of this growing family. It is not only philosophically sound, but practical. Diversity means strength in society, and sustainability depends on a diversified support network. This also creates opportunities for the children that would otherwise be unimaginable. Illustrative are AFCECO’s relationship with a community organization in Milan, Italy and an organization in America called SOLACE.

Two of AFCECO’s outstanding students who have been with AFCECO since they were little girls are presently receiving a world-class secondary education living in Milan with their Italian sponsors. They both speak five languages and engage in a variety of extracurricular activities such as dance, karate, snowboarding and debate. Along with this long-term commitment the Italian friends host a large group of children each winter for six weeks, giving them a slice of Europe and a view into the world outside their homeland.

SOLACE has made a commitment to AFCECO that not only broadens the world for the children but also gives them medical attention that can only be obtained outside Afghanistan. Each summer a large group of children of all ages are selected to go and live with host families in various parts of the U.S. while they receive needed eye, dental care or state-of-the-art medical attention for diseases, injuries and other disorders.