My trip to Africa came out of my experience meeting a little boy named Rajabu (who you see in the picture). Rajabu’s family was fortunate and came to the United States from Burundi through World Relief. When i met him, he had been here less then a year. His personality and smile captured my heart immediately. As I got to know him better and heard his stories about life in Africa his resilience and bravery inspired me. After reading a narrative that Rajabu’s older brother Michel wrote about their life in Africa and the thought of all of the “Rajabu’s” still in Africa, I felt like I had to do something.
I was searching online when I came across Empower a Child. Empower a Child is a non-profit organization focusing on the humanitarian crisis in Uganda and Kenya by re-building communities and guiding Africa's youth. I will be spend 6 weeks participating in a variety of daily activities that include visiting schools to help with their feeding programs, visiting hospitals to play with children who have broken limbs and disabilities, spending time at the babies homes, and running sports camps for kids. During my 6 weeks I will also be participating in a village trip where I will help build a home.
With the plan in my head to go to Africa, and the reality of the cost, I sent a letter to my family and friends asking for donations to help offset the cost of my airfare and fees (about $4000). Thank you SO much to the people who have sent me a donation already!!!!! Thanks to the generous donations from family and friends, i am about 1/4 of the way there!!! This is very exciting news.
If you are still planning on making a donation there is time.I have learned through various experiences abroad that more often then not, if your heart is open, the benefits will almost always outweigh the cost. This opportunity is not one that is an option for many people. If you would like to help the children in Uganda, as well as help me in my journey, you are welcome to make a tax deductible donation to Empower a Child through me email me and i can fill you in on what to do. The money that you donate will go directly to the program fund to help offset the costs of the food and facilities used by the staff of Empower a Child to improve the lives of many children in Uganda.
