Beyond the 11th was born out of the compassion we received after 9/11. In the midst of our own loss, we learned about the struggles faced by Afghan widows—limited access to education, few opportunities to earn an income, and little support to provide for their families. We recognized the contrast between the help we were given and the challenges they faced, and we chose to use our spotlight and our voices to help—just as so many had helped us. After more than two decades of serving Afghan widows, Beyond the 11th will be winding down at the end of 2026. This decision comes with both deep reflection and a steadfast commitment to lasting impact. Since 2003, our work has centered on empowerment—supporting widows in Afghanistan through job training, literacy, and economic development. In 2021, we partnered with Razia’s Ray of Hope to launch a dedicated widows program, and since then, we have funded it annually. Now, in our final chapter, we are committed to raising enough money to ensure this program can sustain itself for years to come. This program provides stipends to families of girls who attend the Zabuli Education Center (K–6 school in Deh’Subz) if their mother is widowed or the head of household. The support extends beyond the student to the entire family, ensuring stability and dignity for those most vulnerable.
Our goal is to endow this program for the future, so that widowed families will continue to receive ongoing support long after Beyond the 11th has closed its doors.
While this is the close of one chapter, it is the continuation of another. Together, we can carry forward the mission of hope, resilience, and opportunity for Afghan widows.