No Worries in BULA

2010-09-06T07:09:00.002-04:00

2010-09-06T06:43:00.002-04:00

2010-09-06T05:42:00.002-04:00

2010-09-06T02:33:00.002-04:00

2010-09-06T01:44:00.002-04:00

2010-09-06T01:10:00.002-04:00

Hail Storm in Uganda

2010-05-20T10:04:00.002-04:00

BULA NEWSLETTER - 28 February 2010 - by Melissa Fricke

2010-02-28T13:10:00.000-05:00

After a lapse in updates, I send you news from Uganda. I have had the great pleasure of spending another 7 weeks here visiting the children at BULA Children's Home, St. Kizito Primary School and many old friends. Andie has also joined me in the visit for 3 weeks.

While here, we congratulated the students who completed their Primary Leaving Examinations with great success. This exam is heavily regarded and greatly determines your placement in Secondary School. It is judged on a scale of 1-4; Grade 1 being a tremendous success and placement in great schools. A placement in Grade 4 may jeopardize a student's continuation of schooling thus indicating the extreme importance of the exam.

At the Children's Home, the five students who sat the exams finished with great achievements. There were four finishing in Grade 2 and one finishing in Grade 1. At St. Kizito, all students finished at Grade 2 or better. We are so proud of their success!

We now have sent off 12 children from the Children's Home to the boarding sections at Secondary School. We look forward to learning of their continued success.

At St. Kizito Primary School in Gganda, we have continued the art exchange. We love bringing back artwork to the school, so any school interested, please let us know! The students recently went on a field trip to the Entebbe Wildlife Education Center. This was done on behalf of Fellowship recipient, Mackenzie Brown, and her community's fundraising efforts. The kids had a spectacular time and even had the chance to visit the airport nearby.

Also at the school, minor repairs and maintenance have been carried out. The battery for the solar panels needed replacement while the water pump for the underground water tank also needed repair. Both have completed and we expect sustained use for both.

Andie took me to St. Kizito Primary School in Namugoona, the school awaiting our assistance. This was extremely exciting for me as I hadn't yet seen the new construction project, nor had I met all of the people involved. The School sits on a large piece of property opening the door to many possibilities in the construction. Tom Harrison and his team of architects have designed preliminary plans that we look forward to seeing develop over the coming months as we raise the necessary funds to complete the project. I will be stopping in London on my return and will have the pleasure to meet all of the individuals involved in the project. Together, we hope to provide a school truly fit for the surrounding environment.

My time here is coming to a close and I look forward to the continued work Stateside. We have a Swap Party event coming up at Mickey Felice's in Patchogue on March 3^rd. Contact us for more information. More events are in the work and we will keep you posted!.

Thank you for all of your support.

Vivacious Vital Volunteers at Home and Abroad - Uganda part 2

2009-10-15T09:14:00.002-04:00

Yesterday I started a series of blogs honoring the important work of the amazing volunteers who have dedicated their time and their lives to support the children in Uganda through BULA's many projects.

Today I would like to talk about the directors of the children's home - Uncle Steven, Uncle John and Uncle Dan. These three men have truly made the ultimate sacrifices to protect and honor the rights of the children who were abused and neglected. This was no easy task for the men, as they persevered despite cultural norms that look away from such abuses and misunderstandings that complicated the efforts to secure the well-being of the children.

But persevere these men did and because of their hard work we were able to place the children in a safe environment, register with the necessary legal authorities, reunite the children with their families, and begin to plan for the futures of the children in our care.

Because of their constant sacrifices and hard work we are proud to say that BULA Children's Home is a happy, healthy environment for the children. And we thank them endlessly for all they have done to make it the wonderful place that it is.

Vivacious Vital Volunteers at Home and Abroad - part 1 - Uganda

2009-10-14T12:15:00.004-04:00

Dear Readers,

Wow, it has been awhile and once again I apologize for my lackadaisical blogging - and by that I mean my lack of blog entries. I would like to use this time to talk about the people who work behind the scenes and often go unnoticed but are an essential part of the BULA team and without them BULA would not achieveing their amazing accomplishments in Uganda.

I would like to talk about one of those who are on the ground in Uganda, working tirelessly for the protection of children's rights to education and security.

Mackenzie Brown is the 2009 Elrod Fellowship Winner. She came to Uganda a few months back and spent her first 3 months living at BULA children's home. She came with 3 flourescent pink suitcases and the drive to design and implement after school programs at St. Kizito Primary School. She began her lessons on September 7th, when the new term started and despite the difficulties that she endured moving to a totally foreign country Mackenzie has persevered and things have been amazing for her.

The teachers are involved in the daily activities, learning new and insightful ways to educate children. And the children are learning through practical applications to improve their English skills and also to reinforce the lessons learned throughout the day. We are so proud and excited about Mackenzie's efforts!!! This is just one way volunteers are making BULA the amazing organization that is changing people's lives and securing brighter futures for children.

Stay tuned as there will be a new vivacious vital volunteer in the spotlight each day!!!

St. Kizito Primary School - Namungoona

2009-07-18T06:43:00.005-04:00

Well, now that things are settling down at BULA Children's Home, it is time for BULA to focus on its original mission of improving educational facilities, materials and programs in Uganda. Our next project is in the preliminary stages.

St. Kizito Primary School in Namungoona is a primary school a few kilometers from the first St. Kizito. It may seem slightly odd that the schools have the same name, but St. Kizito was a child martyr and hence the namesake for countless primary schools in Uganda. The school is home to 120 students from nursery to P7. The students study in a scrap wood, dirt floor, leaky tin roof structure and are completely exposed to the elements such as wind and rain. There are no desks for the students, who sit on benches and kneel on the floor to participate in lessons.

I have recently met with local officials who are ecstatic about the project. They are all familiar with our work and are eager to get things started. The process in the beginning is slow and involves making plans, getting approval, meeting with officials, etc. But things are progressing very well. Tom Harrison, our architect from England will be joining me in Uganda at the end of August to begin the building plans.

Stay tuned for more information as plans unfold and finalize. As well as for information on upcoming fundraisers to support our projects.

Shipment from America

2009-06-14T07:08:00.009-04:00

I almost forgot to write about the huge shipment that arrived in Uganda a few months ago. I wrote about the 200+ boxes of donated clothing, books, school supplies, etc. and after I posted that blog about 50 more boxes were added to the cargo.

When the children shifted homes, they lost a lot of their clothing and belongings. But thanks to the donations of countless people, the children hardly missed their things. In addition to that, nearly every classroom at St. Kizito Primary School is now stocked with Health, Math, Science, Literature, and Writing text books and the Nursery class has toys and musical instruments.

So many text books were donated that we have enough to stock our next school construction project which we are currently in the process of planning. BULA's schools are probably the only one's in the area with the resources necessary for educational growth and overall development; providing the opportunity to be successful students and therefore helping to secure brighter futures for these children.

These photos show the huge truck we used to transport the massive shipment from Entebbe airport to Gganda and the Nursery School children playing with the musical instruments.

Connecting Classrooms Through Creativity Update

2009-06-07T09:13:00.004-04:00

I am very excited to tell every one that our Connecting Classrooms Through Creativity Fundraiser is proving to be a complete success. Melissa has just returned to Uganda with a suitcase filled with artwork. One art teacher had a wonderful idea to create murals; massive posters were sent over and hung on the walls. The funds from this fundraiser are used to continue our support of St. Kizito Primary School, namely to update the solar power at the school and to create shutters for a few classrooms and the teachers' offices.

Teachers tell us that the students in America have a wonderful time creating this artwork, but most importantly they learn about life in Africa and increase their global awareness. Not to mention, they are helping those in need.

Students in Uganda are thrilled to see the new artwork arrive. Their classrooms are bright, colorful and decorated just as American classrooms would be. They also enjoy the rare opportunity to create artwork of their own, which Melissa brings back to America with her when she returns.

The end of the American school year is quickly approaching, but please keep this fundraiser in mind over the summer. It will continue next year as well. There is more information about this fundraiser to the right as well as a link to our video to inspire and educate children.

Kisoboka!!

2009-06-01T00:28:00.003-04:00

It is possible!! I found a great internet location that will allow me to upload photos. I inserted some photos into the blogs that I wrote over the last few months, please feel free to go back and enjoy!!

Luganda

2009-06-01T00:23:00.000-04:00

obulamu bulungi!! - Life is good!!

Statistics

2009-05-31T11:47:00.001-04:00

"The civil conflict in northern Uganda has led to severe disruption of learning. 63% of all schools are displaced or abandoned. Close to 505,343 children have fallen out of the education system due to insecurity and the challenges of surviving in a war environment." - Save the Children in Uganda publication

Breaking News: Read All About It!!!

2009-05-30T03:21:00.005-04:00

News just came in from the NGO Board, part of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, and BULA Children's Home application to become a registered NGO in Uganda is approved - it is now an official NGO!!!

This process began almost 5 months ago as soon as the children were removed from the unsafe environment in which they lived. It has been 5 months of hassles and headaches (to say the least), but we did it. We collected recommendations from every legal entity in Uganda that could possibly relate to the well fair of children and our hard work is actualized with the official registration from the board.

This is really exciting news for us and we are over joyed to know that our efforts to keep vulnerable children safe are being recognized and appreciated!!!

Congratulations BULA Children's Home and to every one who worked so hard to make this happen!!!

"There is No Life Without Water" - Albert Szent-Gyorgyi

2009-05-30T02:11:00.002-04:00

“The human right to water entitles everyone to sufficient, safe, acceptable, physically accessible and affordable water for personal and domestic uses. An adequate amount of safe water is necessary to prevent death from dehydration, reduce the risk of water-related disease and provide for consumption, cooking, personal and domestic hygienic requirements”.

(General Comment 15, CESR, 2002 as quoted from the World Water Council website http://www.world watercouncil.org/index.php?id=25)

- 1.1 billion people live without clean drinking water. (World Water Council)

- 2.6 billion people lack adequate sanitation. (2002, UNICEF/WHO JMP 2004)

- 1.8 million people die every year from diarrhoeal diseases. (World Water Council)

- 3,900 children die every day from water born diseases. (WHO 2004)

In BULA's small corner of the world, we are doing everything we can to provide clean water for drinking and sanitation to decrease disease and dehydration among the children and communities we assist. At St. Kizito Primary School, BULA built a 30,000 gallon underground water tank to store rain water from the roof. This tank provides a consistent source of water for the 150 students at the school, even during the dry season. The water from the tank can be pumped into jerry cans and then poured into Bio-sand water filters for treatment. We use a color coordinated system: yellow jerry cans for the water from the tank and blue jerry cans to indicate water that is safe for drinking. This clean water is also used for cooking the food in the new lunch program that began last term. There is an additional water tank near the latrines that also collects rain water from the roof. This water is primarily used for hand washing.

You Know You've Been Living in Uganda for a Long Time When...

2009-05-29T05:30:00.002-04:00

- You don’t say goodbye when you are done on the phone.
- You drive over curbs and sidewalks to avoid the jam.
- You raise your eyebrows instead of nodding your head or responding verbally.
- You consider how many cows or bunches of banana you’d be worth should you get married.
- You eat at really nice restaurants and wonder why beans aren’t on the menu.
- You laugh when a mini bus crashes into the side of your car… or when you crash into your friend’s car… or when you are rear ended by a tractor trailer… or when…
- You are no longer afraid of diseases like schistosomiasis, sleeping sickness, malaria, etc.
- You use grammar like: “you take,” “we go,” or “I fear.”
- You have to go on safari… again.
- You yell "muzungu" at other westerners, especially the really pale ones.
- You are writing about living in Uganda for a long time and a friend suggests, “when anything fried tastes good” and you respond, “oh, definitely” … you know you’ve been in Uganda for a long time.

Vacationing in the Pearl

2009-05-24T03:17:00.008-04:00

Tomorrow I am heading out of town and north to Murchison Falls with a couple of friends who are visiting. Murchison Falls is the largest National Park in Uganda and home to animals such as elephants, buffalo, leopard, giraffes, hippos, lions, etc. and the location of one of the most powerful waterfalls in the world, where the massive Nile River is squeezed through a six meter gorge.

I am always writing about the day to day affairs of BULA, but in honor of this much needed vacation I'd like to talk about the splendors of Uganda. Once called the Pearl of Africa by Winston Churchill, Uganda consists of a natural environment so green and plush I can't figure out why Ireland gets all the credit for its rolling hills.

The geography in Uganda is dramatically different depending on the area, but in central Uganda, where I live, the rich soil is the perfect contrast the lush vegetation that grows abundantly. And, for those who love summer time, the sun shines almost everyday and the evenings cool to the perfect sleeping temperature.

Uganda hosts a plethora of landscapes for the nature lover in us all. The beaches in Entebbe and the Ssesse Islands are beautiful places to relax. Jinja, a breathtaking 2.5 hour drive from Kampala through fields of sugar cane and the Mbura Forest, is where the Nile River begins. Here you can enjoy some of the best kayaking and white water rafting in the world or sit by the Bugagali Falls and enjoy the beautiful and exotic birds of this region. One of Uganda's most popular attractions, and rightly so, is the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in the west of the country. This intense forest hosts the impressive and highly endangered mountain gorillas. This treck is an expensive, but amazing and worthwhile venture; if you have the chance to stand feet from a silverback gorilla, please don't pass on the opportunity.

The list of Uganda's amazing attractions could continue on for pages - Sipi Falls, Rwenzori Mountains, Kibale National Park, Lake Bunyonyi, Mburo National Park, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, the Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary, or canoeing in search of the rare shoebill near Entebbe, and Queen Elizabeth National Park are a few other noteworthy places to visit if in the country.

Uganda's central location also makes it ideal to travel to other countries namely Tanzania, Kenya, and Rwanda, but Uganda's most wonderful asset are the people. I was told before arriving two years ago that the people of Uganda were the nicest in Africa and they have lived up to that reputation. Funny, kind, welcoming and generous, the people of Uganda are what set it apart from other countries in the area.

Coincidentally, I just saw an article in the New York Times about white water rafting and traveling in Uganda. The link is too left in the News in Africa section, but here is a link to the slide show that accompanies the article http://www.nytimes.com/slideshow/2009/05/24/travel/20090524-uganda-slide-show_index.html. If you would like more information about traveling in Uganda, I know of two excellent travel books. Bradt produces a travel guide specifically on Uganda and Lonely Planet prints one focusing on East Africa. Both books can be purchased at any book store that sells travel books or online at http://www.amazon.com/. Lonely Planet also has this informative website http://www.lonelyplanet.com/uganda.

Statistics

2009-05-24T03:13:00.000-04:00

According to a Save the Children in Uganda (SCiG) publication, "The HIV/AIDS pandemic is a major root cause of childhood poverty. HIV related death accounts for about 50% of the orphans in Uganda, where one in four households hosts at least on orphan."

What is Family Planning and Why is it Important?

2009-05-23T03:16:00.005-04:00

In all countries across the world, there are a lot of myths and criticisms that go along with "family planning," but this is especially true in developing countries where people rarely receive advanced education or accurate information in regards to their sexual health and reproduction. One of the leading problems in developing countries is that this lack of information leads to massive families for which parents are unable to provide. Children are frequently undernourished, uneducated, and impoverished as a result of large, unmanageable families.

Family planning encompasses everything from deciding to wait to have sex or deciding to use contraceptives or deciding to have a small family that you can support. Family planning also entails more controversial aspects such as sterilizations and abortion. Often family planning is synonymous with contraception or abortion, but involves many other important aspects that are overlooked because of this misunderstanding. Spacing children is family planning. Sexually transmitted disease testing is family planning. Sexuality education is family planning. Pre-natal visits and parenting programs are also family planning.

It is a growing concern that these misconceptions and false information are the leading causes of child neglect, abandonment, malnourishment, disease and lack of education creating a cycle of suffering and extreme poverty from which it is difficult to break free.

But there is hope for the future. After his holiday visit, one young man from BULA, told me he was concerned about his mother, "She does not know about family planning, and she keeps having babies. Everyone there is suffering, the conditions are bad". Because of good eduction and countless opportunities that have been given to him, he sees the problems of having too many children and not being able to support them. He, like many others young people who I know, is planning on a small, manageable family so all his children can go to school.

Please read the article from the New York Times entitled, "Where Life's Start is a Deadly Risk" about the health risks to women in Africa related to childbirth. More than 500,000 woman die annually due to complications with childbirth, half of which are in Africa; a number that would be significantly lower with increased reproductive education and pre-natal care - two important aspects of family planning.

Successful Fundraiser Update

2009-05-22T01:53:00.006-04:00

I just received exciting news from my friend and a kindergarten teacher from the Camp Hill School District in Pennsylvania. In her elementary school, the teachers conducted a fundraiser to raise money for St. Kizito Primary School and BULA Children's Home. Knowing the importance of reading in a child's education and development this teacher encouraged others in the school to get involved to raise money for books for the children in Uganda.

Her students watched our video (there is a link to the right) and learned about life in Africa. Parents began to call this teacher to inform her that their kindergarten students ran home from school and could not stop talking about helping the children in Africa. How exciting to think that students at such a young age are developing a sense of social responsibility and global awareness.

The children were encouraged to contribute money towards a book label which they could donate in honor or memory of someone else. Teachers also put piggy banks in the classrooms so students could donate their spare change. A few weeks later, the funds were counted and the result was 4X the anticipated goal.

The labels are being printed and will be sent to Uganda. I will purchase the books here, insert the labels, and distribute the books to the home and the school. This fundraiser was easy, it was fun, it was educational, and successful. Think what this one small school accomplished and how it will benefit the lives of the children at the primary school and the children's home in Uganda who have limited exposure to books.

The happiest moments of my life have been the few which I have passed at home in the bosom of my family. ~Thomas Jefferson

2009-05-21T02:55:00.008-04:00

The whole process of starting BULA Children's Home has been... well, it has been quite a process and I've learned a lot along the way. I've learned loads of Luganda, I've learned a lot about Ugandan government and the legal system, I've learned how to twist the knobs on my car battery before starting the engine, and I've learned that the children who are in our care have families.

We've known the children for years but in their previous orphanage they were forbidden to talk about their families. Some of the children even lived a few feet away from the houses where their families reside and were not allowed to talk to them. Now that they are in a safe environment the children started to talk. You can only imagine our surprise when the children spoke about brothers and sisters, Aunties and Jjajja (grandparent), even mothers and fathers.

Immediately BULA Children's Home set out to find the families. The process took time, but was relatively easy. About half the families live in the village of Gganda where St. Kizito Primary School is located. The other half of the families live in a village called Ntuuma, about 2 hours west of Kampala.

Contact was made... mpola mpola (Slowly slowly) and arrangements were organized for the children to go home for one or two weeks over their school holiday. Parents were overjoyed. Children were ecstatic. It was an amazing experience to be there while families were reunited after years of separation - in some cases guardians had not seen their children in 5 years.

I felt as if I was relearning the children who I thought I knew so well. Family resemblances were amazing. Tears of joy, hugs, and laughter filled the moments when guardians saw the children who they love and brothers and sisters were together again.

Keep checking the blog, as I will be writing more about reuniting the families. I will discuss child policy, vulnerable children, and describe the conditions of life for some of these families.

Luganda

2009-05-16T09:20:00.002-04:00

Webale nnyo! - Thank you very much.

A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words

2009-05-05T00:58:00.000-04:00

... but, tekisoboka (it is not possible). I have been trying to post photos and videos to go along with my blogs, but unfortunately, my internet connection will not allow me to do so. I will keep trying to upload them to give you a better understanding of life in Africa, but part of that understanding is patience with impossibly slow internet!

School

2009-05-04T09:10:00.001-04:00

I am happy to tell everyone that all school fees have been paid for the upcoming term. This is exciting news as this expense is the largest cost we have at BULA Children's Home and the most important.

I am also pleased to announce that the children in secondary school are all changing schools to make sure that they are receiving the best education possible. The children all did very well in the first term of school after the shift to the new home. There are a few children who struggle academically and in the second term of the year they will receive additional help to ensure success in their studies.

Most of this was accomplished through the generous donation of one amazing supporter right here in Kampala. The support from our contributors has made all that we've accomplished possible. From everyone at BULA we cannot thank you enough.

Happy Belated Earth Day

2009-05-03T14:01:00.003-04:00

One of the biggest problems facing the world, especially developing countries, is the abuse of the natural environment. BULA recognizes that successful development begins with the protection of the Earth and is committed to using environmentally friendly building techniques in all of its construction projects. Recently we were recognized for our efforts.

A representative from the United Nations Human Settlements Programme, UN-HABITAT, came to visit St. Kizito Primary School. UN-Habitat "is the United Nations agency for human settlements. It is mandated by the UN General Assembly to promote socially and environmentally sustainable towns and cities with the goal of providing adequate shelter for all" (http://www.unhabitat.org/). They were in Uganda studying the use of Interlocking Soil Stabilized Blocks (ISSB) in East Africa and through our connection with The Good Earth Trust (http://www.goodearthtrust.org.uk/) and Makerere University heard about our school.

ISSB is a way of making bricks that deviates from the traditional methods which are very harmful to the environment because of deforestation, the burning of firewood, and the large amounts of carbons released into the air. ISSB are made from a mixture of soil, water, and cement. This composition is then compressed with a hand press machine. The blocks don't require any firewood and they dry in a matter of days. All the soil used to make the blocks came from digging the underground water tank at the school. The interlocking feature on the blocks makes them more structurally sound than traditional bricks and they require less mortar between the blocks. Using less cement decreases carbon output and makes construction more cost effective.

The representative from UN Habitat was extremely pleased with our school and stated that it was the best project he had seen on his travels. He was also impressed with the overall design of the school, the water filters that were installed, the solar power, our commitment to quality education, and the underground water tank which promotes good health and gives back to the community. What will come of his visit is yet to be seen, but St. Kizito Primary School could be used as model project for the UN to promote this technology throughout Sub-Saharan Africa. We will have to wait and see.

I have also posted a link to an article in the New York Times on April 16th expressing concerns about developing countries connection to global warming. This link is a slide show to accompany that article http://www.nytimes.com/slideshow/2009/04/16/world/20090416INDIA_index.html

Please know that BULA is continuing its commitment to preserve and protect the earth and is now looking into environmentally friendly cooking technologies for future projects. Visit The Good Earth Trust website or that for UN-Habitat to learn more.

"I Say Goodbye and You Say Hello"

2009-04-16T06:16:00.006-04:00

It is always amazing to be completely submerged into a different culture. After living in Uganda for over a year I have come to realize one difference that unfolds with every interaction - I say goodbye and they say hello.

In Buganda culture, greetings are paramount. The typical greeting seems to go on indefinetely.

"Oli otya"
"Gendi, Oli otya"
"Belungi, Jeebale"
"Kale, Jaabale Ko"
"Kale"

etc. etc. etc. This literally means, "Hello, how are you?" "Fine, How are you?" "Fine." "Thank you for the good work." "OK." "Thank you for the work." "OK."

After this continues on for a while, you can finally say, "Do you have mineral water?" or address whatever is needed.

Coming from the fast paced western world, I would just walk into the store and ask for water bypassing all the formalities that consume so much time. But I have quickly learned how rude this behavior is, have changed my evil ways, and despite the rush I may be in I politely greet every one and ask about the day.

However, at the same time, goodbyes hold little importance. People will just hang up the phone without saying "goodbye." Often, I will be in the middle of a two part conversation and they will hang up and I'll still have things to say. If I drop some one off, they will usually just get out of the car and walk away. If I leave a location, no one seems to notice...

I often stand there dismayed by what has happend. Are they mad at me? Did I do something wrong? Why didn't they say "goodbye?" You see, for me, it can often take 5 or 6 sentences to complete my fairwells (if not more) and when some one cuts me off without offering me this opportunity I feel as though the conversation is not completed or as though something is missing.

As I have learned to politely greet others, I have learned not to take offense when I feel as if my parting routine was ended prematurely and have adjusted to this cultural difference along with countless others.

Ensonya wa

2009-04-13T03:37:00.006-04:00

This simply means "forgive me" in Luganda. A phrase I hope you will take to heart as I ask for your forgiveness in my lack of posts to my blog since I have returned to Uganda. I promise to do better, but as they say in Uganda, "A promise is a debt," so I am not foolish enough to promise daily posts (mostly because of my unreliable internet connections because I certainly have lots to tell). But I can promise to try harder, I hope you understand. I also apologize because there will rarely be photos as my connection is too slow to upload pictures.

Things have been very hectic since my return to Uganda. What was supposed to be a six week trip to finish St. Kizito Primary School and begin plans for the next school construction project turned into a 9 month (at least) journey through the establishment of a new children's home. I am proud to say, that despite the many setbacks that we have endured, the children who were once neglected and abused are now safe, healthy and happy at BULA Children's Home.

My goal in the next few posts is to update you on everything that has occured over the last few months in regards to the school construction, the children's home, and life in Uganda. Please keep checking the blog and I will not let you down!!!

Boxes

2009-01-07T16:31:00.008-05:00

Over the last few months we have been collecting supplies to take to Uganda. With the help of a few amazing people and schools I am proud to say that we will be stocking St. Kizito Primary School and the next school that we build with the following:

Books - 139 boxes - mostly text books
Music - 1 box
Toys - 12 boxes
Educational tools/supplies - 28 boxes
Reading rods - 9 boxes
Clothing - 27 boxes
Personal care - 1 box
Medication - 3 boxes

Thank you to every one who has contributed and who is helping with the transportation of these materials. These will be the first text books these children ever had; our children will truly have brighter futures thanks to your efforts!!!

Luganda

2009-01-07T12:06:00.001-05:00

Wasuze otya. - Good morning, but literally, how was your night?

Connecting Classrooms through Creativity

2009-01-05T20:42:00.003-05:00

I am very happy to say that our "Connecting Classrooms through Creativity" fundraiser is proving to be successful. A third grade class on Long Island has sent in 81 original pieces of artwork to display in our classrooms in Uganda along with a $1.00 donation each. The art varies from under the sea themed pieces to drawings of children holding hands around the world. My personal favorite is the drawing of a lion at a black board teaching a group of students.

This teacher also sent letters from the students stating why they wanted to participate in this fundraiser and how they raised the money. One letter read, "I was very excited about earning this $1.00. I wanted to be part of raising enough funds for a new school in Uganda. I earned a $1.00 by helping my dad rake the leaves in front of our house. I really hope that my $1.00 helps BULA." Or, "I want to help all people in need. I hope the money I am sending will help you get medicine, food, and clean water or anything your community needs."

What a wonderful opportunity for children in America to develop cross-cultural relationships, help provide brighter futures for African children, and acquire a better understanding of life in developing countries.

And think, children in Uganda are receiving improved educational facilities, programs, and materials, decorations for their classrooms, and an opportunity to learn more about life in America.

If you are interested in participating in our "Connecting Classrooms through Creativity" fundraiser please contact BULA at bulainc@gmail.com.

And thank you to all those students and teachers who are already participating!!!

Luganda

2009-01-01T12:11:00.001-05:00

Embeera y'obudde eri etya? - What's the weather like?

New Year's

2008-12-31T13:44:00.001-05:00

The children at the orphanage in Uganda have a very interesting New Year's Eve tradition - they burn old things. On the day of New Year's Eve the children cleaned house. Mismatched shoes, drawings on the walls, toothbrushes...everything old and unwanted was collected and carted outside the compound. Then went the Christmas decorations, the tree was the last item to be thrown into the pile.

After hours of dancing and celebrating we gathered around the large heap of garbage and as the New Year arrived, the fire was lit. We watched as the children grabbed burning materials from the bonfire (particularly the tree) and run towards the more populated area of the village.

As I stood there watching them parade around with flaming branches (surprisingly relaxed, considering), a fellow volunteer asked, "What were you doing one year ago?" I couldn't help but smile as I recalled the previous year and how it had progressed; it was amazing. As another year is about to begin I smile as I look back upon this one as well.

And yet, this New Year's I am focusing on what is to come.

With BULA's return to Uganda only nine days away, there is much to look forward to. We will construct a kitchen at the school to provide a consistent food source for the students who go through an entire school day without. We are also installing water filters to improve the health and productivity of the children at the school. Also at St. Kizito, we are going to improve the solar panels and battery system so we will be able to utilize lap top computers that were donated and introduce technology into the curriculum.

We will also prepare for the fellow who will be living in Uganda for one year and assisting BULA with after school programs to enhance the children's educational experience. Along with this, we are also sending over thousands of donated textbooks for the students who currently do not have any.

This is all very exciting, but that is not all. We are also very excited that we will begin the plans for our second school.

Thank you for all your support over the last year and stay posted to learn more about our progress while we are in Uganda.

Have a wonderful New Year!!!!

Luganda

2008-12-30T20:46:00.000-05:00

Siiba bulungi - Have a nice day!!

Hope for the Holidays Gala

2008-12-28T12:51:00.004-05:00

Hello every one,

I hope you are in the midst of a wonderful holiday season. I just wanted to take a moment to remind you of the Hope for the Holidays Gala in New York tomorrow night.

The party is hosted by BULA & Mission14. It will be held at AVEvenue Social Hall & Event Loft - 15 West 28th Street (10th floor)New York, NY 10001 US on Monday, December 29, 7:00PM to 10:00PM.

Delicious hors d'oeuvres and drink selections will be served from Sherwood House Vineyards and the Blue Point Brewery.

Tickets cost $60.00 and all proceeds will go to BULA and Mission 14 for upcoming projects.

I hope to see you there!!

'Tis the Season - To Be Merry

2008-12-24T08:43:00.004-05:00

Ssekukulu Nungi!!!

http://elfyourself.jibjab.com/view/ucQRUIzXtdxkMtAx60sn

(This takes awhile to download, but is worth it and will only be available until January 15th!!)

To all the volunteers who were there to celebrate Christmas in Uganda... this is for you.

To every one else, please enjoy.

Tuesday's Tips on Fundraising #9

2008-12-23T09:14:00.000-05:00

It's the holidays... relax, and enjoy time with friends and family.

'Tis the Season - To Make Miracles Happen

2008-12-23T01:02:00.000-05:00

It all happened on Christmas Eve 2007. We were outside in the courtyard of the orphange...dancing. I don't think I have ever danced so much in my life. It started shortly after the sunset and dinner was over. The radio blared and the drums were played and we danced all night.

Well, we danced until there was a knock at the gate. The gate keeper ran to grab his keys, it is almost 11:30, who could it be? The gate opened and there stood, none other than Santa Clause himself. The children, who had rushed to the gate to see who was there, screamed and ran in the other direction fearing the unexpected visitor. "HO HO HO," he bellowed, "Merry Christmas!!!"

Slowly the children returned to greet the merry fellow who was now giving sweeties to the braver children. Laughter and screams of excitment soon filled the air. The overjoyed children swarmed the jolly man who continued to hand out candy. Running around with excitement, the children declared, "Sister, he is here!!! I have never seen Father Christmas before!!!"

News on Africa

2008-12-22T17:08:00.004-05:00

Hello, I just wanted to let you know that I am going to post news articles about sub-Saharan Africa. You can find the links on the left hand column.

'Tis the Season - To Give

2008-12-22T08:28:00.017-05:00

This was my first time giving Christmas to children.

The children finally retired to their dormitories around 12:00AM. Myself and the other volunteers closed our doors as if we were doing the same thing, and we waited and waited. Around 1:30 we decided it was safe to bring the 27 hidden basins filled with gifts from my room. Slowly, slowly we carried each basin from the volunteer house to the all-purpose room.

Silently we crept through the night, more out of fear of waking the cow; one wrong move and her bellowing could wake the village.

The stockings the children made weeks earlier were carefully filled with sweeties and a stuffed animal. Everything was arranged perfectly for the following morning.

A few minor scares - rustling from the dormitories, the cow shifting in its sleep - caused small delays as we all froze in nervous anticipation of being discovered. But scares are all they were and Christmas was successfully delivered.

'Tis the Season - To Dress Your Best

2008-12-21T08:48:00.003-05:00

Last Christmas I had the "pleasure" of shopping for 26 children as discussed in a previous blog. But there was one saving grace...All the boys wanted black pants, white dress shirts and a tie. Well, this certainly made things easier than if they all wanted completely different things. Needless to say I managed to find black pants, white dress shirts and a tie for all 14 boys. I couldn't wait until Christmas morning when they would get dressed up in their nice clothes to head to church looking smart.

In all the excitement of Christmas and upon seeing all the other gifts they received that day, the boys were less than thrilled about their formal attire, and dressed in everything but their church clothes that morning. The picture says it best. The girls, as usual, where another story. The girls all wanted white dresses for Christmas. This is where I drew the line. If there is one color that should not be worn in Uganda it is white. The dark soil, dry seasons, and hand washing make cleanliness impossible and the clothes look ratty in weeks. But each girl received at least one lovely dress and another lovely outfit for church.

First, making sure the clothing was appropriate and all knees where hidden from view, the girls changed their clothes regularly, donned their jewelry and shades, and walked around like divas for days.

Photo Updates

2008-12-20T14:15:00.009-05:00

Hello everyone,
I have finally learned to utilize the ability to publish photos on my blog in a much better fashion. I urge you to go back, read some entries again as they are now published with pictures from my time in Uganda to help give you a better understanding of life in Africa.
Thank you!!

'Tis the Season - To Eat, and Eat, and Eat

2008-12-20T11:54:00.015-05:00

The most exciting part of the holiday season is the food. Many people in Uganda refer to Christmas as the feast you have on Christmas day.

For instance, "Sister, where is my Christmas?" ... "It is cooking," I would reply.

This just happens to be my favorite meal.... yummmm.... This is what we had....

matoke (steamed plantains)
g-nut sauce (made from peanuts)
beans
green beans
cabbage (fried)
pumpkin (steamed)
rice

eggplant (yuck)
sweet potato
Irish potato
greens (bitter - yuck)
fish (yuck)

Peeling sweet potatoes.

Anything not marked with a very mature (yuck), I would pile on my plate, mix together, garnish with a pinch or two of salt... and... yummmmmm.

Then fresh, delicious pineapple for dessert!!!

The children walked around that night with stomach's protruding from their Christmas clothes and smiles beaming on their faces.

Bulging belly and fast asleep...the signs of a wonderful Christmas.

'Tis the Season - To Go Shopping

2008-12-19T07:24:00.012-05:00

Christmas preparations began in early November. Another volunteer and I painstakingly gathered all the children and took their measurements - inseams, waists, heights - all 26 of them. Forget about a list; we made a shopping chart with each child’s name, their measurements and then listed everything they wanted or needed for Christmas. It was an intricate grid, complete with boxes so we could easily keep track of things we purchased. We were ready.

The donations, that were given specifically for Christmas, made this possible, but we were still on a budget. We were off to Owino Market. Owino is a massive market near the taxi park area in Kampala where you can, if you are willing to work for it, buy anything you want. It is a narrow maze of shops and booths that are covered in tarps. The floor is comprised of mud and/or broken, unsturdy and sometimes treacherous planks of wood. If your foot goes through or you can’t make the jump, beware of the bog of eternal stench that lies, unassumingly, beneath.

The pathways are winding and branch off in all directions in what seems like an impossible labrynth of people - grabbing you, yelling prices, throwing their garments. The market is always packed; you are always uncomfortably close to many people and there is always a man with a massive parcel on his head sucking his teeth behind you (much like Wal-Mart on Black Friday).

Armed with the shopping chart and measuring tape, this is where I spent several days a week until Christmas. I quickly learned to strategically maneuver through the chaos, bargain for fair prices, and dig through the mounds of second-hand merchandise that lie in piles on the ground.

'Tis the Season - To Solve Problems

2008-12-18T13:17:00.007-05:00

There is one week until Christmas. Each day I will post a new blog about my wonderful memories of Christmas in Uganda.

One of the older boys approached me, "Sister, I have many problems… can you fix my problems?”

I simply shrugged my shoulders and made a face that clearly read, “I don’t know, tell me more”.

“I am the time keeper at school,” he continued, “and my watch, it has no technology.” I looked briefly at the sad shell of a digital watch; the face has no numbers, behind the clear plastic barrier I see his skin.

I nodded in understanding, “what are your other problems?”

“Sister, I have too many shirts and not enough pants. Sister Endie, this Christmas, can you fix my problems?”

“Yes, I can fix your problems.” I pulled a pen from my bag and wrote the time on his wrist below the empty watch face. “And now you must find a man who has too many pants and not enough shirts; then trade. All your problems are solved. Anytime you need anything, I love you and am always here to help.”

I walked away, the young man laughed, knowing my sarcastic nature. Little did he know in a few days, all his problems would be solved.

With his new watch. All his problems were solved that day.

Fact on Uganda

2008-12-17T07:38:00.003-05:00

Uganda’s economy is growing and has been for a decade. As a result, poverty and its effects are decreasing but Uganda still remains one of the poorest countries in the world, with 31% of the population living below the poverty line. - World Vision

Cookbook Competition

2008-12-16T18:13:00.001-05:00

And for the record, I am going to sell more cookbooks tonight!!!

Like I Said, We've Been Busy.

2008-12-16T18:07:00.003-05:00

Over the last few weeks we had several fundraisers and I’d like to briefly tell you how they went. We had two “Cookbook Release Parties,” one in Camp Hill, PA the other in Blue Point, NY. In Camp Hill a great friend from high school opened her house and hosted the party. In New York, a BULA board member offered to have the party at her house. These were both a great time and an excellent opportunity to talk about BULA and increase awareness about our organization and life in Africa.

There was also a golf tournament, sponsored by Black Bird’s Bar and Grill. This was held on the surprisingly beautiful day after Thanksgiving and 88 golfers arrived at the event for a wonderful day of golfing, great food, and fun. The response was fantastic and the support was amazing.

We also had a 5K run, which was the inspiration behind BULA’s new slogan – From Blue Point to BULA - a tribute to the wonderful community that has supported BULA since its initiation. The walk/run was a complete success, more than 150 arrived to support BULA and to participate. With the tremendous generosity from the Blue Point Brewery, a good time was had by all, especially upon completion of the race. We hope to make this run an annual event, so look for us next year, and join us to support our school construction projects in Africa. In addition to this, we have been selling our cookbooks and sweatshirts outside of Bayport/Blue Point school district’s holiday concerts. The school has, once again, shown its amazing support by allowing us to speak briefly and show our video before the concert. We have been able to sell boxes of cookbooks in this manner and are slowly getting closer to meeting our financial needs to construct the second school.

We have also had a wine and cheese get together. A neighbor who has been hugely supportive organized this event. This was a wonderful opportunity to talk to new people in the area who did not know a lot about BULA, but knew they wanted to learn more and support the cause. We showed the video, which I have attached the link to help provide a better understanding of life in Africa; again the support was tremendous.

Finally, a friend of ours from Mission 14 helped organize a happy hour fundraiser in the city. This was a very low key event, but was a lot of fun and carried on well into the evening. At this fundraiser BULA and Mission 14 decided to hold a joint event to support both organizations, and this was the beginning of the Hope for the Holidays Gala discussed in the previous blog.

Thank you to everyone who helped organize an event and to everyone who attended - we couldn’t do this without you.

Tuesday's Tips on Fundraising #8

2008-12-16T08:07:00.001-05:00

Don’t get into a competition with a board member in regards to who can sell more cookbooks. You may not win and it sucks to lose.

Hope for the Holidays Gala

2008-12-15T18:16:00.002-05:00

Hosted by: BULA & Mission14
Location: AVEvenue Social Hall & Event Loft 15 West 28th Street (10th floor), New York, NY
When: Monday, December 29, 7:00PM to 10:00PM
Phone: Melissa: 631.375.2790 or Brian: 631.804.4857

The pleasure of your company is graciously requested to attend Hope for the Holidays 2008 Gala Event hosted by BULA & Mission 14.

We would like to reflect upon all the great work done in 2008 and to discuss our future plans & projects for 2009. We would also like to take this opportunity to say,"thank you" for all of your support and efforts over the past year. Delicious hors d'oeuvres will be served along with drink selections from Sherwood House Vineyards and the Blue Point Brewery.

Ticket Cost is $60. Please Vist the following website to register for the event: http://2008hopefortheholidays.eventbrite.com/
The website accepts both credit card & pay pal payments.

*All proceeds go to the funding of future BULA & Mission 14 projects
*Please RSVPby December 27th

Happy Holidays!

Happy Holidays

2008-12-10T23:29:00.002-05:00

Please keep in mind the best holiday gifts are those that keep on giving. BULA produces and sells t-shirts, both long and short sleeve, sweat shirts, and the second edition of our A Recipe for a Future cookbook. All make wonderful presents and all proceeds support our school construction projects in Uganda. My family will no longer be surprised, but yours will love to receive a gift that supports children in need. Everyone is raving about the cookbooks and I can’t think of a better way to spend the cold winter days than bundled up in my BULA sweatshirt!!! Please contact us at 631-419-3090 or bulainc@gmail.com if you are interested.

Excuses, Excuses

2008-12-10T23:10:00.001-05:00

I must first extend my apologies for slacking off with my blog over the last few weeks. However, I am certain you will be glad to know why I have not posted anything other than my fundraising tips. The last few weeks have been wonderfully hectic - exhausting and exciting at the same time. There have been several fundraisers each week, which explains why I have forgotten my Tuesday’s Tips and why tip #7 is a highly caffeinated drink from Starbucks.

The support has been amazing. We have held a golf tournament and a 5K run, Cookbook Release Parties and Happy Hours in Manhattan, along with several meetings, lunches and gatherings all to benefit BULA.

We have been zigzagging our way from Long Island through Pennsylvania and D.C. all the way to Virginia and back (in two days) spreading the word about BULA as we go. Friends and family members are pulling together to help us host these events and to sell our products in anticipation of our return to Uganda on January 9th.

Throughout the next few days I will let you know about each of these events and what else is happening to make up for my deficiency in blogging, get you caught up on the last few weeks and keep everyone informed about the month prior to our departure.

Tuesday's Tips on Fundraising #7

2008-12-09T21:49:00.002-05:00

Seven words - Triple grande sugar free vanilla soy latte.

I'll explain next time.

Tuesday's Tips on Fundraising - #6

2008-12-03T08:43:00.001-05:00

If you are going to post a weekly blog, such as "Tuesday's Tips on Fundraising," you really should remember to do it on that day.

Tuesday's Tips on Fundraising #5

2008-11-25T10:44:00.003-05:00

BACK UP EVERYTHING ON YOUR COMPUTER!!!

They do stop working and when they do, you could lose everything!!!

Another Worthwhile Quote

2008-11-24T13:32:00.003-05:00

This quote summarizes Enlightenment Philosopher, Marie-Jean-Antoine Condorcet's recognition of the importance of education as written in Jeffrey Sach's 2005 book, The End of Poverty.

"Education enabled individuals to stand on their own feet, to avoid charlatans, to abandon useless or harmful superstitions, and to improve their ethics, human symphathies, and "moral goodness." The wider the education, including in social and political principles, the more peaceful, sound, and progressive the entire society would be. 'Thus the constant expansion of elementary instruction in these [political] sciences... offers us an improvement in the destinies of the human species that can be regarded as indefinite.'"

Cookbook Fundraiser

2008-11-20T12:49:00.000-05:00

Dear BULA Supporters, I am very pleased to announce that A Recipe for a Future: Second Edition is completed. We are very excited about this compilation of recipes donated from friends, family, community members, and restaurants from Camp Hill, Long Island, across the United States and around the world.

The cookbooks are $20.00 and all proceeds are used to support BULA's school construction projects and afterschool programs in developing countries in Africa. The first cookbook was a tremendous success and allowed for the completion of BULA's first project, St. Kizito Primary School. The Second Edition contains all new recipes and will support upcoming projects in 2009.

Please join us on December 7th from 2:00-4:00 at 301 N. 26th Street in Camp Hill, PA for a Cookbook Party. Enjoy delicious food and drinks from the book, learn more about our organization, and have a wonderful time for a wonderful cause. Cookbooks will be available for purchase at this event.

If you cannot make on December 7th, there be another Cookbook party in Blue Point, NY on December 11th from 6:30-8:30 at 102 Park Street.

If you cannot attend either of these events, but are still interested in purchasing a cookbook, please contact us at 631-419-3090 or at bulainc@gmail.com.

Other options are to send $20.00 +$5.00 shipping/handling to PO Box 147 Bayport, NY 11705.
Remember, these books make excellent holiday gifts, house warming presents, bridal shower gifts, and birthday presents.

I hope to see you this December, please feel free to bring friends and family members to the events!!

Thank you in advance for your support!!

PS: If you are interested in selling cookbooks for BULA among family, friends, and coworkers, please contact us and this can be arranged.

Gganda is on the Map!!!

2008-11-19T10:58:00.005-05:00

Last June, after the completion of St. Kizito Primary School, a prominent man in the village of Gganda proudly exclaimed, “Thank you for your work, you have put Gganda on the map!!”

The village of Gganda, lies about 7 miles north east of Kampala, the capital of Uganda. It is a small area, and not well known, as it is just another village on the outskirts of town. Even in the bustling new taxi park, where a regular stream of matatus runs from Kampala to the neighboring villages of Jenina and Kibando (and almost anywhere else you would want to go), people looked confused when I asked where the minibus to Gganda was. Many times the men whom I asked would look around at the chaos of hundreds of unmarked matatus that comprise the taxi park and declare, “Gganda? Sister, you are in Uganda!!”

No kidding, I would I think as I walked away in search of more informed assistance.

These stories came to mind yesterday, when out of curiosity I decided to search Gganda on Google Earth. I began the search in Kampala and followed the satellite images of roads that made the all-too-familiar route from the city to Gganda. We could clearly see the streams of traffic through old Kampala, and the wide circle where Hoima Road intersects with the Northern Bypass. We laughed as we recounted the story of the “Walker Special” - a way to get into the city via bodaboda and bicycle. Continuing further, we would turn into the village and we could see the swamps that frequently flooded the road, but were also home to the frogs whose chirping at night is a pure symphony. We would continue, using the satellite images all the way to the orphanage, and further to images of the old school. We could even see the amazing mango tree that once stood outside of St. Kizito, who was unfortunately uprooted despite our desperate attempts to preserve it.

Earlier in the year a friend said this area could not be found using Google Earth; anything outside of the city was black. Today, the images are amazingly clear and detailed, right down to the bodaboda stage on the corner and that magnificent tree. Gganda is, quite literally, on the map. I look forward to checking back in several months and seeing updated images of the area and looking down, proudly, at the completed St. Kizito Primary School.

Tuesday's Tips on Fundraising #4

2008-11-18T11:08:00.004-05:00

If you are going to send out a mass communication to invite people to an event or to participate in a fundraiser, make sure you put down the correct phone number.

PS: Sending invites with the correct dates are also imperative. WOOPS!!!

HOW CAN THIS BE!?!?!?

2008-11-13T19:48:00.001-05:00

I recently read a quote in The End of Poverty (2005) by Jeffrey Sachs that blew my mind.

He states, that in the year 2000, the 400 richest U.S. taxpayers had a combined income that exceeded the income of Uganda, Botswana, Nigeria, and Senegal - COMBINED.

400 people earned 12 billion dollars more than 161 million people.

There Are No Practicals, Yet

2008-11-12T12:22:00.002-05:00

"Sister Endie, what is the meaning of transplantation?" a student at St. Kizito asked in his attempt to quiz me on his science lesson. "Well," I responded confidently, "Transplantation is when you move plant from one place to another." "No Sister Endie, transplantation is the movement of a baby plant from the nursery to the main garden," he quickly corrected me. Hmm, I thought. "OK, when we moved the full grown banana plant from the front of our home, to the back, isn't that transplantation as well?" "No Sister Endie," the young boy chuckled at my foolishness. "Transplantation is the movement of the baby plant from the nursery to the main garden.

I use this example time and time again to demonstrate the flawed practice of rote learning. The children in Uganda wait silently as the teacher writes on the black board, they recite the information then copy it into notebooks. The children are never given an opportunity for practical application of the subject matter learned.

One of our workers presented this problem to us one day when a pulley system was made to dig the latrines. "Ah," he says, "so this is how you make a pulley. I have drawn one many times and I know how one works, but have never made one. This is the problem with Ugandan education... There are no practicals."

Realizing this obvious problem in the education system, we have decided to create after school programs for the children in the schools we build giving them the opportunity to reinforce the information learned in school with hands-on, creative, independent, and fun projects. The children will not only learn a practical use of that information, but will strengthen their communication and English language skills. We are very excited about these programs and are working closely with several retired teachers in the Blue Point/Bayport area to develop lesson plans and project ideas for when it is time to implement the programs.

I can only hope to teach the children to independently think through problems and generalize their education to all aspects of their lives. These programs will help them realize that, yes transplantation is the movement of the baby plant from the nursery to the main garden, but it is also the movement of a plant from one place to another.

Tuesday's Tips on Fundraising #3

2008-11-11T12:25:00.004-05:00

Never go to a fundraiser without a Sharpie, some rope, and tape.

$1 Donation Drive

2008-11-05T08:16:00.003-05:00

We are planning a fundraiser asking local teachers to encourage their students to donate $1 to BULA. Along with that $1 we would like those students to submit artwork as well - paintings, drawings, anything. We will then bring the artwork with us to Uganda and display it on the walls in the classrooms at St. Kizito Primary School. During our after school program children will be encouraged to create artwork for the students in America - all for $1.

What an amazing activity to get students of all ages involved and increase cultural awareness in both countries.

The collective $1 donations will be used to fund the after school programs and to continue the construction projects that we have planned for 2009.

We are looking foward to speaking at the New York State United Teachers Leadership Conference for Nassau County this Friday. We are excited to be presenting this fundraiser to representatives of every school district in that county.

Tuesday's Tips on Fundraising #2

2008-11-04T08:26:00.002-05:00

If you need socks, go buy socks. No matter how passionate you are about your cause, you always have time for and can always afford socks.

Thank You

2008-11-03T22:04:00.000-05:00

I am constantly being told that no one cares about my cause as much as I do. I can't tell you how disappointing and upset I feel each time this negative generalization is recited.

The reality is: people do care, and they care ALOT.

Countless friends, family members, community members, and complete strangers have expressed their desire to learn more and to help in some way whether it is material donations, financial contributions, or offering their time. The response has been amazing and I cannot thank you enough for your seemingly endless support. We still have a long way to go, but we are proud of our accomplishments. We couldn't have completed the school, nor can we continue to support that school and begin our next project without the assistance of so many caring, compassionate, generous people.

I thank you, on behalf of BULA and the Gganda community, for all you have done to make our dreams a reality.

I'm not European, I'm an American

2008-11-03T21:51:00.003-05:00

A few people have asked. The photo in my profile includes myself and the two youngest boys at the orphanage. The one in the background is holding up his favorite board game, Snakes and Ladders, while the other pulls my hair across my face declaring that I am "Yellowpean."

Quote

2008-10-31T12:09:00.003-04:00

I recently discovered a quote that supports my mission to provide a better education to African children.

This is by Adam Smith from his book, The Wealth of Nations, (1776) as quoted in The End of Poverty by Jeffrey Sachs (2005, page 253).

"Adam Smith called for the public provision of education: 'An instructed and intelligent people... are more disposed to examine, and more capable of seeing through, the interested complaints of faction and sedition...' Smith argued therefore, that the whole society is at risk when any segment of society is poorly educated."

UPCOMING EVENT - 5K RUN

2008-10-30T22:08:00.001-04:00

BULA is holding a 5K walk/run on December 6th in Blue Point, NY.

Don't worry if you are not athletic, the run begins and ends at the Blue Point Brewery so you can hang out there and still be part of the fun. Registration begins at 9:30, the walk/run will begin at 10:30.

Every one is welcome to attend this event, a good time will be had by all.

Thank you for your support, we hope to see you there. If you cannot make it, remember, donations can be made on our website. I will keep you informed of any other events that are coming up.

No Worries in BULA

2008-10-29T21:04:00.004-04:00

“There are no worries in BULA.” After all, why should there be? This is the perfect place that the children created. We are the facilitators, but they are the visionaries. Unfortunately, the world is far from perfect, especially theirs, and sometimes there are problems. It hurts in unimaginable ways to feel powerless and unable to protect those you love from the pain and suffering that trespass into their lives.

I often envision the 13 year old gate keeper, locking the doors and keeping these children sheltered from the realities of their environment. By turning the key he is keeping them free from sickness, corruption, and abandonment. By moving the latch to lock the gate, he is offering a world of happiness, stability, and health.

But alas, reality creeps through the cracks and up from under the doors and the children are exposed to a world from which I cannot protect them. It is impossible to guard any child from all the horrors of the world, but my predicament is particularly difficult. I live thousands of miles away and I am foreign to the complex systems and culture that effects these children.

If this sounds like surrender, that is not my intentions; this is not the end of the fight. It is just the beginning. My plan is to give these children the only commodity that cannot be taken away – an education. Bettering educational opportunities for these children is the only way I know to protect them from their environment and empower them in the future. If I cannot keep them from the difficulties currently in their lives, I can only give them the human capital to cope with troubling circumstances - either how to avoid them or how to remedy the situation when the time comes.

By teaching them to think through problems, to question the status quo, to look for solutions that fall outside of the box these children will have the power to fight a corrupt system and have better lives in the future. Through education they will learn about health and safety for themselves; and then pass the knowledge to their children. Without a proper education they will grow up and perpetuate a cycle of hopelessness and desperation.

For now, they are just children. For now, they are innocent pawns in a game that has continued for countless years. But they will not be so forever - they are the future. There are no worries in BULA because BULA is the hope of a better future for children in need. And where there is education there is always hope.

Birthday Wishes

2008-10-27T09:35:00.002-04:00

Melissa and I recently spoke at a conference for the New York State United Teachers (NYSUT) of Suffolk County. This was an amazing experience. We had dinner with Representative Tim Bishop, who was also speaking at the event. We stood in front of 200 people and talked about BULA's past and, more importantly, its future.

The support was overwhelming. Countless teachers approached us to brain storm ideas on how to get their classrooms involved with BULA.

We inspired so many teachers to care about our cause, but I was inspired by one second grade teacher who told me about a year long project that he does with his students. Each year, his students write every world leader a birthday card. These 9 year old children ask these leaders to please, on their birthdays, make a wish for world peace. I was moved by his dedication and unique idea to teach young students about the world around them.

I cannot wait to hear what wonderful ideas come from next week when we present BULA to 200 teachers and union representatives from Nassau County.

Tuesday's Tips on Fundraising #1

2008-10-25T16:06:00.003-04:00

I am going to begin writing about things I am learning while fundraising for our upcoming return to Uganda. Each Tuesday I will post a new lesson based on our experiences to inform people about this process and to help anyone who maybe embarking on this same path.

Tip #1: DO NOT hold happy hour fundraisers that continue late into the evening, the night before a really big, very serious, super important conference.

Fall Foliage

2008-10-22T09:36:00.001-04:00

Earlier this summer I decided that I was going to do a cookbook fundraiser to support BULA - A Recipe for a Future: Second Edition. I thought it would be a great idea to get my home town involved in our projects in Uganda. I drove home one weekend, made 600 copies of a flyer asking for recipes and I set out on foot delivering each one door to door.

As I walked around the town I saw it differently than I ever had before - I saw it through the eyes of someone from the village of Gganda. With these lenses on, I suddenly realized how beautiful my home town was. Everything I saw was amazing: the houses, the yards, the flowers, the wide open spaces. I was in awe.

Since my return from Uganda I am constantly amazed by what surrounds me: HOT WATER is available by simply turning a facet and TOILETS - but we'll just leave it at that. WIRELESS INTERNET that is unbelievably fast and doesn't turn off at the most inopportune time. Oh, and GASOLINE that only costs $3.30 a gallon. Or highways that are paved, without massive potholes spanning the entire road and drivers who actually follow traffic laws or CELL PHONE connections that come in clearly and hassle free. And there is so much more.

For many of us, we are experiencing the transition of seasons and the beautiful colors of the fall foliage. As I was driving through the town in which I live, all I could think about was someone arriving from Gganda during this time and encountering fall for the first time. How exotic and astonishing the leaves would seem to someone who never experienced anything in seasons but wet or dry.

Seeing this amazing gift of Mother Nature, for what seemed like the first time, I felt blessed to be surrounded by such magnificence.

Someone once said, “Look at everything as if you were seeing it for the first or the last time. Then your time on Earth will be filled with glory.”

This is what my time in Uganda has taught me.

PS: The cookbook will be available in November!!!

Happy Hour Fundraiser

2008-10-19T08:32:00.002-04:00

Please join us at Puck Fair on October 23rd at 7:00.

Puck Fair at 298 Lafayette Street, New York, NY 10012.

There is a great drink special, it will be a great time and it supports a great cause (must be 21 years or older).

I hope to see you there!!!

Statistics

2008-10-15T07:58:00.002-04:00

According to the World Bank in September 2008, Uganda has the highest dependency ratio in the world with children constituting more than half of the population.

Statistics

2008-10-14T11:17:00.002-04:00

In 2006, 76.2 million of the world's children did not attend primary school; half of the these out of school children lived in Sub-Saharan Africa. - The World Bank

The Land of John

2008-10-11T07:51:00.005-04:00

The children are always singing. They sing songs about Uganda, songs about the future, songs about welcoming visitors, and more. One day I asked an eight-year-old girl, to teach me the lyrics to one song.

She sang:

Uganda, the land of freedom,
The pearl of Africa, the land of John,
I am happy to be Ugandanese,
Uganda is my motherland.

Now, I was able look past the obvious error in the song which calls the wonderful people of Uganda, Ugandanese rather than Ugandans, but when she sang about the land of John, I just had to stop her and ask, "Wait, land of John, don't you mean the land of JOY?" Clearly, this is the proper lyric for the song, I KNOW it is the land of joy.

She stood there in all seriousness, reciting the lyrics in her head (lips moving, a pensive expression on her face).

She stops singing, and says, "No, sister, it is the land of John," and continues on to the next verse.

For me I am calledee ___,
I am happy to be Ugandanese,
Uganda is my motherland,
Uganda is our motherland,
Oh Uganda!!

Building More Than Schools

2008-10-06T21:27:00.005-04:00

Generally speaking the women in Uganda are submissive, despite their overwhelming importance in the Ugandan culture as the primary care givers for children and their contribution to sustenance farming and trade in the markets. Even though they have only slightly lower attendance in both primary and secondary schools, women's roles in Uganda are noticeably subordinate to the males in their lives. Even today, women in the Buganda tribe are expected to kneel when speaking to or gretting a man.

These are the stories of two yound women with whom I lived.

At the orphanage the girls tended to be quieter than the boys. They kept themselves busy in the kitchen; they prepared most of the meals, did their other chores, completed their homework and hung out in their dormitory.

So we knew something very peculiar happened when a 15 year old young lady, approached Melissa and asked, “Sister, what is the meaning of fed up?”

Naturally, a little confused and worried about this question, Melissa couldn't help but to ask why and who she would say this to.

“Well,” she continued, “I said it to teacher; please tell me what it means.”

Despite her curiosity, Melissa explained, to be fed up means that you are tired of something, you are not going to tolerate an action any more, you will not put up with it any longer, and then, of course, she asked, “What happened?”

The girl replied, “Sister, in school today, teacher was going to beat me, and I said, ‘no, I am fed up’ and I ran out of the classroom and came home.”

Not long after, the jjajja (grandmother) who prepared the lunch time meal left the orphanage. The men who run the children’s home refused to prepare the meals for the students. Instead, each day one girl had to stay home from school to complete the cooking; the older girls often missing 2 or more days of school each week, and at times, missing their very important end of term exams.

It was during this exam week, that another young lady, 13, was taking her turn to stay home from school. She began preparing the lunch in the morning as usual. For half an hour she remained in the kitchen cooking posho and beans over the wood fire stove, until, suddenly a loud crash was heard from the kitchen, we ran out to see what happened, and there she is, storming to her dormitory, proclaiming, “I am wasting my time!!” She continued to put on her school uniform and march to school just as her exams began.

You may be asking the significance of these two stories. Both these young ladies inadvertently recognized that their cultural hierarchy is flawed and stood up to a system that is constantly trying to keep them down.

You cannot teach someone the resolve to take control over their lives, but can only help them build upon the values that you instill. You cannot expect someone to risk grave consequences, unless you have built a support system where they are loved and cherished. You cannot make someone stand up against their adversary, but can only encourage them to build the confidence to do so one day.

Change is possible; change is happening. It is often slow and hard to recognize, but it only takes one or two people to plant the seed of equality in the minds of others. These two young ladies are role models to the girls in their classrooms, and should be to anyone who has ever been taking advantage of, abused, harassed, disrespected, or belittled. May we all have the courage that these young ladies displayed in the face of our aggressors.

Needless to say, I am proud of these girls.

BULA is hoping to develop programs that will continue to empower women. We are currently planning courses for the women in the village so they can learn English, health, and math. These educational opportunities will be greatly valued as the majority of women do not attend school past the primary level. Continued education will not only provide these women with greater employment opportunities, but also empower the women so they lead more fulfilling lives. These women will receive more respect from their community members and pass the value education and the importance of learning on to their children.

My First Blog Entry Ever

2008-10-03T18:29:00.000-04:00

Thanks for visiting my new blog. I'm really excited about sharing all my experiences in Uganda and working for BULAinc., here in New York. I hope to share some of these experiences in the next few days so if this is all that is posted come back then to read more.