Mulumbe!

I'm going to Africa! Yes, you heard me right, but given the potentially high shocker value, let me say it again...

I'm going to AFRICA! And I'm bursting with excitement for it!

First, let me tell you about where I'm going and what I'm doing there. Bumwalukani is a small mountainous village in Uganda where Arlington Academy of Hope was founded, and where I will fulfill my dreams, live amongst banana trees, and help paint a brighter future for children. My primary responsibilities will be teaching in a primary school and assisting in a health clinic. As many of you may know, I'm passionate about health and education, curious about cultures, and I love people and service. This is an amazing opportunity for me to combine all of that in one experience.

Check this out...

So where am I in the process? Honestly, this isn't coming out of nowhere - I decided to do this last spring and I plan to go for the next term, February through April, 2008. (Yes, that's three months and I'm certain I'll be OK.) I've researched the organization, volunteered with them here in the States, met with people who've gone before, and pondered and prayed about it. My friend Hollie shares her experience at Life and Times in Uganda. Also, I spend ample time learning about Uganda, its people, and the current issues in the surrounding area (Save Darfur!).

Let's talk $$$. So far, I've raised over $2500 for program fees and everything provided for me by AAH. Now I need about $1500 more for a plane ticket, vaccinations, and other expenses I'll encounter. Please feel free to contact me if you can help or if you have ideas on how I can find fundraise.

I look forward to learning about and experiencing a new and unique culture first hand. My hope is to improve lives (especially my own) a little at a time and this is an incredible way to do it. As I have much to contribute and share with these beautiful people, I feel that what I receive in return will be a thousand fold.