Goal: $1,945

$1,125 raised so far,   $820 to go! Fundraising Deadline: 12/20/2010

Thank you for supporting me in my efforts to volunteer to help children in need.  I’ll be volunteering in South Africa in the rural community of Malungeni along the eastern part of the country not far from the Indian Ocean.  This is an enterprising community poised to overcome the damage apartheid left in its wake.  The local leaders direct the community development projects and our goal as volunteers is to help the host community realize its vision.  More than 100 elementary school students need the extra help that enthusiastic and compassionate volunteers can bring.  One of the many tragedies of apartheid is that Blacks were often denied education beyond the most minimal level.  Consequently, many teachers, especially in the rural areas, have not had the opportunity to be sufficiently trained to teach many subjects.  The children, of course, pay the price.  I’ll help teach conversational English, science, math, geography, health, or economics.  English is especially important because it has become the international language of commerce, technology and opportunity.  In many countries like South Africa, knowing how to speak English is a passport out of poverty because it opens up all kinds of job opportunities. 

Local leaders envision a self-supporting community where all are empowered to reach their potential. I’m excited to contribute on this development projects to help them reach their goals.  This is one of Global Volunteers newest programs started in 2008, so I’ll be on one of the first teams.  It’s only for two weeks, but it’s very important to the people of Malungeni and another group of volunteers will follow later this year.  This is a wonderful opportunity for me to “roll up my sleeves” and make a real difference in the lives of others, and for you to make a genuine difference as well through your financial contribution.  I’m really looking forward to volunteering in South Africa.  Thank you again for your support.

PS  I'd really appreciate your forwarding my e-mail to your friends whom you think might be willing to help.