OUR INSPIRATION
OUR INSPIRATION: THE LEGACY OF VERONICA ONYENEKE
The foundation was born out of the selfless spirit of Mrs. Veronica Ulumma Chinenyenwa Onyeneke, a woman of remarkable faith and compassion. Known for her deep love for others, she embodied the values of charity, kindness, and service to her community. Her life was a testament to the power of generosity, as she constantly provided for the less fortunate, empowered women, and supported struggling families.
Mrs. Veronica was a cornerstone in her community, known for founding charitable organizations such as Otu Dikwadoro, an initiative dedicated to helping families in need. Her leadership in various women's groups and her unwavering commitment to the welfare of others inspired those around her and left a lasting impact on her community.
It is in honor of her legacy that Rev. Fr. Charles Onyeneke founded the Veronica Onyeneke Foundation. The foundation carries forward her vision of helping the poor and marginalized, ensuring that her acts of kindness continue to inspire future generations.
Her favorite saying, “A good life is one spent in the service of others”, continues to guide the work of the foundation, serving as a reminder of the difference that compassion and service can make in the lives of others.
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THE LEGACY OF MRS. VERONICA ULUMMA CHINENYENWA ONYENEKE
Mrs. Veronica Ulumma Chinenyenwa Onyeneke Nee Ihenacho was born on the 29th of October 1948, to the family of late Pa Wilfred Ihenacho and late Nneoma Catherine Ihenacho of Umuolenwankwo Umuonyeali Ugo Mbieri in Mbaitoli local government area Imo state.
She attended St. Benignus Catholic Church Primary school Umuodu Mbieri where she obtained her standard six certificate.
She got married to Mr. Lazarus Onyeneke on 30th of March, 1968 and the marriage is blessed with eight children; seven living and one passed on to the eternal glory. After her marriage, she ventured into trading to assist her dear husband in training the children. To the glory of God, almost all of their children are graduate in their different fields of studies.
Due to her religious upbringing from her parents and her tenacity to the catholic doctrines and way of life, she ensured all her children was disciplined and brought up in the fear of God. No wonder she was recognized by the catholic family of St. Benignus Catholic Parish Ihitte Mbieri and was awarded a highly honor of, Ideal Catholic family—just for the love of God in her life.
Mama was such a woman who believe that with God one can excel in all her endeavor. Her leadership roles was excellent. She was a team player, who carries her subordinates along. For her leadership role, she was among the executive member of CWO, St. Mary group 3, Otu Dikwadoro (chairperson), Obibiakagbo women group (member) and Oganihu women group (member).
For her dedication and humility towards services to mankind she bagged other awards from her village Umuonyeali and where she married—Umuodu. Eziada nke Agbagharaizu women association, Umuonyeali Ugo Mbieri and award of Recognition from Oganihu women organization Umuodu Ihitte Mbieri. Till death she is an active member of Catholic Biblical Movement and Catholic Women Organization in the church.
Obidimma Nwanyi Oma, Dee Vero, Mother of all both for the old and the young, the indigene and non indigene, your departure has created a vacuum only God knows the best way to fill. You are a Mother to all that comes around you.
A woman who want to gather even when everybody is against you. An epitome of peace maker, who feeds all even in times of scarcity, a mother who takes every child to be her own. Your love, care, likeness and accommodating spirit is what we cherish most. You lived a successful and fulfilled life, we love you so much that it is still difficult to believe this reality. We know you are resting with the saints in heaven, you will forever be remembered in the hearts of those you love.
Your life has not only been a blessing to those who knew you, but it has also become a driving force for a greater purpose. The way you lived—your love, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to others—has deeply inspired Rev. Charles to take a step further in continuing your legacy.
Through your example, a vision was born—the Veronica Onyeneke Foundation. A vision rooted in compassion, service, and the desire to uplift others just as you always did. Your life has pushed this dream into reality, not out of obligation, but out of the undeniable impact you made.
Even in your absence, your influence remains strong, guiding and inspiring this mission. The foundation stands as a continuation of your good works, a living testament that your legacy will not end, but will keep touching lives for generations to come.
We love you Mama, Adieu—Obidinma Nwanyioma, Adieu—Nneoha, Adieu Obidiya, Adieu Ezi-Ada. Remember to shelter us all as you always do, till we meet to part no more.
Signed:
Rev. Charles Onyeneke
Son / Founder, Veronica Onyeneke Foundation