GHEI's objective is to help build a sustainable future for the people of Ghana through community-based health and education projects. This approach followed from a community assessment whereby a collaborative partnership of local opinion leaders and a committed group of medical, social work and law students from the United States gathered information on the strengths, concerns, and conditions of the community. After analyzing the results and various strengths and experiences of those involved, a program of action was drawn up.

From 2001-2003, GHEI created a timeline to implement the programs and enable community members to manage the organization independently. During this initial period, Clement Donkor, the elected community leader, took an instrumental role which led to his permanent appointment as Program Manager.

The implementation of GHEI's development plan began in 2003. The purpose of the first two years was to create a solid foundation for each sector, which was done by launching health and education programs, building a community center where programs would be housed, and building relationships and capacity in the village. 

The second phase (2005-2007) concentrated on strengthening the programs, refining curricula, extending some services beyond the village of Humjibre, and hiring and training additional local staff. In 2007, the demand for library services and computer education grew beyond the capacity of the existing community center, and a new expanded library with classroom block was constructed and opened. This created the space for a computer center furnished with 10 functioning workstations. Both of these facilities are staffed and overseen by local community members.

In 2008, GHEI’s programs were expanded further geographically with the rolling out of a malaria prevention project in nearby Surano. As part of this project a group of community health workers were trained community research techniques and key prevention methodologies. (continued)