The Dust of Africa: Emersing ourselves in the Community

We spent time today visiting the Mothers and Grandmothers of the children involved in the Youth Art Project. We talked with each family for sometime and asked to them to share their story with us. We wanted to hear what their hopes and dreams were for their children. All of the mothers said education was most important, but they struggle to find the funds to pay school fees. The cost of school for a child in BulBul is about 3,000 shillings a term or $112.50/year. Parents work odd jobs, partake in high risk behavior and do whatever they can to make sure their children's school fees are paid. Would you be willing to partner with a family and help support their child's education? It equals 2 trips to Starbucks a month... is that something you can live without to give a child an education? All of the parents understand the value of education and want to see their children succeed.

The grandmother in the video talked about some of the challenges to keeping the children in school and educated and the outside pressures that exist. The Youth Art Project is working hard to ensure children are engaged in after-school and weekend activities to prevent them from becoming involved in unsafe behaviors and activities.

In the afternoon we spent time 'training' with the teams. It is a joy to watch their passion and motivation come to life on the football field. I am amazed at the work John and James have done with the youth to keep them involved and driven towards a common goal.