RAISING HOPE FOR MATHARE VALLEY: EPISODE THREE

In 2008 we began a journey that has impacted our lives and the lives of many others. On our first trip to Kenya we became acquainted with the work of the Mathare Community Outreach Schools which serve the poor in the Mathare Valley slum of Nairobi. In 2009 we returned, taking others with us and strengthening the relationships already begun.

We had the honor of hosting a team of five leaders from MCO to visit Springfield, Illinois in 2010. They shared with us their Strategic Plan and goals. A short term goal was the purchase of a Bus to begin an income generating business that will help pay teacher salaries. During 2011our team raised $54,000 to help MCO purchase this Bus.

A second longer term goal was the development of a small farm where they can grow food to feed the orphans and children in the schools as well as to have a surplus that can be sold at the market for additional income. A donor recently blessed them with 15 acres of land in a rural farming area. This land is uncultivated and they are looking to their friends from the farmlands of central Illinois to partner with them to help make it a thriving agricultural venture.

We have recently committed to visit Mathare Valley for a third time in early March 2012. We will be joined by six other team members, connecting more folks first-hand with the remarkable work that is being done by our friends who have dedicated their lives to working with the poorest of the poor in one of the world’s worst slums. We will spend time in the classrooms, participate with the sports programs, and connect with the ministry leaders. Since we ourselves do not have an agricultural background, we have recruited a young farmer who attends Hope Church to join the team. During our visit we also hope to be able to have a dedication and celebration of the new Bus.

We have invited others to be members of our support team for the past ventures and we have been overwhelmed with the responses we have received. Without the prayers and financial investment of our friends and family we would not have been able to be difference-makers.

We are honored and humbled to be your representatives in carrying on the work of Jesus among the children he loves so much.

We want to offer you the opportunity to partner with us in 2012. Along with your prayers, we need $7000 to cover our travel costs and project expenses.

Thank you for considering being a part of our home-based team.