Motivating the Mind

“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world. “
-Nelson Mandela

As I was looking for something new to share on this blog I ran across this quote. I thought that it was rather interesting considering that the past few blogs have been centered around education and most of the conversations that I have had lately were also geared in a similar direction. I sat back and thought about the power and meaning of each of these words education…weapon…and change.

This quote very eloquently sums up the entire mission of ASAP (To cultivate self-reliance in Southern Africa). In order to make a REAL change, a LASTING change, a BENEFICIAL change one must take the initiative to educate themselves. Only then will their work be sustainable.

After reading several news articles and talking to various people about the problems of the world, I must say that this quote reminds me of just why I do what I do. Everyday is a learning experience that you must take with you on this journey. If you learn nothing then you will go nowhere, but an educated man can not be stopped.

-Shannon

Bridging the Gap in Mathematics

Children in Zimbabwe are working hard to become the best that they can be and it is so exciting to see them reach their goals. One child that recently showed enormous progress despite the odds is Nomore. Nomore is born to the second wife, Caster, in a polygamous family. In all, there are 12 children. His father, George, is a peasant farmer and is barely able to meet the children’s educational needs, particularly secondary education. Nomore is likely to go to nearby Crossdale Secondary School for Form 1. His family will struggle to raise the fees, uniforms and stationery.

Nomore participated in the grade 7 cluster quiz competitions, representing Sagonda School and placed 3rd out of 6 participating students. What is exciting about Nomore's results is that he got a distinction in Mathematics, having been active in his SMC. Here is evidence of the impact of the BTG project at such a remote institution. Way to Go Nomore!

The Sky is the Limit

ASAP is pleased to announce that we recently won the ‘Schools for Rural Entrepreneurs’ grants competition hosted by Teach a Man to Fish. This grant will help ASAP to improve our agricultural education projects and we are so excited that we were chosen.

One of our projects that we are working very hard to raise funds for is our Rural Family Nutrition Initiative in Zimbabwe. ASAP is partnered with Global Giving in this initiative. Our goal is to provide 300 rural families with drip irrigational kits.

The future truly looks bright for ASAP and all of the endeavors that we have embarked upon. With the continued support of our friends the sky is the limit.

Education is the Key

ASAP Africa recently received the great news that we have been awarded a grant by the Rotary Club of Borrowdale Brooke and the Rotary Club of Peachtree City for funding to help provide increased literacy and enhance the education of over 41,000 students in 131 schools in Nyanga District, Zimbabwe. It was approved by the Rotary Foundation (TRF).

This is perfect timing as we are currently collecting school supplies to send to Zimbabwe by February 14, 2007. Our wish list includes:

Writing Tablets
Erasers
Felt Tip Markers
Rulers
Spiral Notebooks
Pens
Pencils
Crayons
Book Bags
Text Books

If you would like to support ASAP and the Rotary Club in our efforts to provide the children of Zimbabwe with a better education, please consider making a donation from our wish list. You may also give a gift card from Wal-Mart or Target.

We Shall Overcome

“The hope of a secure and livable world lies with disciplined nonconformists who are dedicated to justice, peace and brotherhood.” -Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Dr. King not only had a dream for the United States of America, but his dream included all men and women that run this human race. He realized that in order to produce a positive change we must come together as one body and lift each other up in the name of brotherly love.

When we think of the atrocities taking place in our world it may seem a bit overwhelming and discouraging. You may ask “what can I do as one person to make this world a brighter place?” That is when we need to realize that “Nobody made a greater mistake than he who did nothing because he could only do a little.” - Edmond Burke

There will always be negative and there will always be positive. We decide on an individual basis which energy we choose to put out into the world. If you believe in the hope for a secure and livable world you must first make the change within yourself. Once we change our hearts and minds and focus on the pursuit of happiness, freedom, and justice a change will surly come.

Oh, deep in my heart
I do believe
We shall overcome some day
We'll walk hand in hand
We shall all be free
We are not afraid
We are not alone
The whole wide world around
We shall overcome some day
Lyrics from “We Shall Overcome”

-Shannon

Take the Challenge: Meet or Beat Sandy Creek!

Sandy Creek High School challenges schools, corporations, and individuals to meet or beat their efforts in raising money for ASAP Africa in support of our mission to cultivate self-reliance in Southern Africa. Last year the students raised $933.22 towards eliminating poverty in Africa and now would like to increase the total funds with your help. Give the most sustainable gift possible, meet or beat the efforts of Sandy Creek by joining a team with goals of assisting rural communities improve their own lives.

Sandy Creek High School and ASAP Africa have realized the importance of
working together, sharing knowledge, and most importantly creating sustainable change in the lives of those battling poverty. We ask that you take this opportunity to join with us and create positive change that will continue long after the work of ASAP ends. Contact ASAP by calling 770-632-7451 or e-mailing Elizabeth Bara ebara@asapafrica.org or Shannon Dunn shannondunn@asapafrica.org for more information. Join the worldwide crusade to eliminate poverty and take the challenge to ‘Meet or Beat Sandy Creek!’