Dear family and friends-
In this time of my life, I have found myself searching for solace in seeking out things I can do to create a positive change in the world around me. I want to let you know about a life-changing opportunity I have to travel with a team of teachers from my school district to South Africa this summer. We will be preparing and presenting professional development workshops for teachers who work with students from schools located in the township of Potchefstroom, outside of Johannesburg. This area of extreme need is beset with families who struggle with daily hardships from lack of running water in their homes to lack of access to a quality education. Children growing up in the township face unique challenges and the teachers often do not have the training to address their academic or social/emotional needs.
As we spend time with educators and community leaders we will
also gain an understanding of the challenges they face and learn
from their experiences. I am sure the learning will be mutual and
many relationships will be established. We will be learning about
the history and culture of South Africa, the apartheid and its
effects, as well as visiting some of their prominent historical
sites. In addition, I will be looking for ways that I can bring
this experience back into my own classroom and develop
connections within my curriculum. I am so excited for this
opportunity to be of service, sharing my passion for teaching and
helping children with others!
Each team member has been asked to raise $4,000 by the end of
April to cover the expenses for this serving opportunity. I am
wondering if you would like to be a part of my support team and
help me raise these funds? I truly believe that this experience
will allow me to use my expertise to impact a larger community
than just my classroom.
This is a volunteer service trip facilitated by the non-profit organization INGAGE UNLIMITED. All contributions are 501(c)3 tax deductible donations and can be made online here: http://give.ingageunlimited.org/southafrica. If you choose to donate, just select my name from the drop down menu of team members. Your donation will assist with our travel and provide support for the families and students with whom we engage along the way. I will also be sending out an email update following my trip to share about my experience. Please feel welcome to email me if you have any questions.
Another way you can help support our team is by setting up an "Amazon Smile" account. This allows you to choose our charity to receive a percentage of all of your purchases through Amazon.com. Choose Faith and Learning International
EIN: 20-0743864 from the charity list to support our team.
“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.”
― Mahatma Gandhi
Thank you so much for your consideration.
With gratitude,
Brigette