GOOFIRM began in 2020 with a simple but powerful belief — that communities can transform themselves when given the right knowledge, skills, and opportunities. Born out of the shared vision of a group of passionate change-makers in Limbe, Cameroon, the Foundation was inspired by the growing need to address health, unemployment, educational gaps, and social inequalities affecting young people and vulnerable groups.
Initially, GOOFIRM started as an informal community initiative in 2020, organizing small training sessions, awareness campaigns, and outreach activities. These early efforts brought together individuals from different walks of life who shared a common dream: to build a platform where people could learn, grow, and create sustainable livelihoods for themselves and their communities.
In 2022, the initiative evolved into a formal organization. The constitution was validated on November 22, 2021, and on January 21, 2022, the Senior Divisional Officer for Fako officially acknowledged the receipt of declaration documents for an association created in 2022. This marked a new chapter, giving GOOFIRM the legal recognition needed to expand its reach and impact. From its humble beginnings, the Foundation has steadily grown — both in capacity and influence. Milestones along the way include:
- Launching community-based skills training programs in entrepreneurship, vocational trades, and ICT for youth and women.
- Partnering with local schools and organizations to promote literacy, leadership, and career development.
- Conducting outreach campaigns on environmental conservation, health awareness, and gender equality.
Over time, GOOFIRM has transformed from a grassroots volunteer group into a structured, mission-driven NGO with an expanding network of partners and beneficiaries. Today, it stands as a beacon of hope, resilience, and empowerment committed to creating lasting change in Cameroon and beyond.
GOOFIRM implements a diverse range of programs tailored to address the pressing needs of vulnerable communities in the Southwest Region of Cameroon. Our health outreach efforts focus on improving maternal health, menstrual hygiene, and sanitation practices, directly benefiting women and girls in rural and crisis-affected zones. Through environmental conservation initiatives, we actively engage local communities and youth in protecting and restoring natural ecosystems.
Our education support programs ensure access to quality learning by providing materials, scholarships, and literacy campaigns targeting marginalized children and youth. The agriculture and livelihood development projects empower smallholder farmers and entrepreneurs with sustainable farming skills and market opportunities, enhancing food security and income. Lastly, our youth STEM empowerment programs aim to bridge gender gaps in technology by equipping young people, especially teenage girls, with vital science and technology skills for future employment and innovation.
ORGANIZATIONAL CAPACITY
Staff Strength and Key Expertise
GOOFIRM is managed by a committed team of professionals and volunteers who bring a diverse range of skills and experience in community development, project management, education, agriculture, health, and environmental sustainability. The Foundation currently has:
- 7 full-time staff members providing program coordination, finance, administration, and field supervision.
- 15 dedicated volunteers and community facilitators supporting grassroots implementation and outreach activities.
- Expertise covering public health, sustainable agriculture, education, ICT, gender empowerment, and project monitoring & evaluation.
Infrastructure, Facilities, and Resources
- A Head Office in Limbe equipped with office space, meeting rooms, internet connectivity, and ICT tools to support program planning and coordination.
- Access to training facilities and community halls for workshops and outreach sessions.
- Field tools and logistics support, including motorbikes and community-based kits, that enable staff to reach remote and crisis-affected areas.
Technology and Tools
GOOFIRM leverages technology to improve efficiency and impact:
- Use of ICT platforms for education, monitoring, and reporting.
- Digital tools for data collection, analysis, and beneficiary tracking.
- Social media and website platforms for awareness creation, advocacy, and visibility.
Partnerships and Networks
Collaboration is at the heart of GOOFIRM’s work. The Foundation partners with:
- Local authorities (municipal councils, health centers, schools) to align projects with community priorities.
- Civil society organizations and NGOs working in health, education, and environment to strengthen program delivery.
- Community-based organizations and youth groups for grassroots mobilization and capacity building.
- National and international networks that promote knowledge exchange, advocacy, and resource mobilization.
Through these human, infrastructural, and collaborative capacities, GOOFIRM is well-positioned to implement impactful, sustainable, and scalable community development programs.
Governance & Management Structure
GOOFIRM operates under a transparent governance system that ensures accountability, participation, and effective decision-making.
- Board of Directors
The Board of Directors provides overall policy direction, oversight, and governance. Members bring diverse expertise in development, education, health, agriculture, finance, and community leadership. They are responsible for:
- Approving strategic plans and budgets.
- Ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory frameworks.
- Monitoring program impact and sustainability.
- Management Team
The day-to-day operations are managed by a team of professionals led by the Executive Director, supported by program managers and administrative staff. Responsibilities include:
- Coordinating program implementation.
- Managing staff and volunteers.
- Building partnerships and mobilizing resources.
- Ensuring monitoring, evaluation, and learning (MEAL).
3. Volunteers & Community Facilitators
Volunteers play a central role in field implementation, community mobilization, and awareness campaigns. They act as a bridge between the organization and grassroots communities, ensuring inclusivity and local ownership of initiatives.
