Story continued

So now that I am going to Africa (a dream I have had for a looong time), I am trying to help out with trip plans, fundraising, and whatever else! I love to learn about a place before I go because I feel like I get so much more out of it. So, I'm sure I will be posting lots of neat info I find, cool pictures, crazy facts, etc. so you are just going to have to deal with it! Skip the Africa blogs if you aren't interested :) And to kick it off, to the left is an Adinkra symbol (just started to learn about them) of a cocoa tree. I thought it was pretty. (Kira, I need to figure out where you get those stamp making kits so I can try to make some of these Adinkra symbols.)

On another note, you might be saying, so what are you going to be doing while you are there? To be honest, when I first signed up for the trip, I knew almost nothing. Yes, we were going to "help out" but that was about it. Things continue to grow clearer as the weeks move ahead. So far, here is what I know:

-We are going to be setting up a community center in Koforidua (Emmanuel's hometown). The hope is that this will serve as a place people can utilize as a job center since one of the main problems is unemployment (rate of 90%). We are going to set up computers and office supplies there and it will also function as a Emmanuel's campaign headquarters in his bid to be elected into Parliament.

-University of Dreams purchased a 200 square foot shipping container that will be shipped over 2 months prior to our arrival (that's how long it takes to get there)! So we don't have much more time to get it filled!

-Wrangler Jeans has donated 5,022 pieces of clothing ($35,000) and filled about 60% of the container.

-University of Dreams is donating a dozen refurbished laptop computers, office supplies, and sporting goods.

-The sporting goods store managers donated 150 soccer balls!

-an Athletic Director is donating a large supply of full uniforms to organize sporting events.

-18 of us have agreed to make thr trip at our own expense.

-Any donations received from now until May 4th will be MATCHED by the University of Dreams CEO!

It is all just very exciting! If anyone has any corporate connections or any ideas on how to help, please let me know! No donation or idea is too small! My email is kristin.hockman@gmail.com. Thanks :)