It All Adds up to Change!

Connecting Cultures- Uganda to students in Hinesburg, Vermont

What makes you feel optimistic? I know that can be a hard question.

Here's one answer: 11-year-olds stepping up to help other kids across the world.

I want to give a huge thank you to the 5th-grade students and teachers at Hinesburg Community School in Vermont. For the third year in a row, they hosted a Penny War, and this time, they raised $1,400 for our students in Uganda.

When their donation came through, I'll admit -I got a little choked up. Their generosity is a powerful reminder that small actions really do create life-changing impact.

Their gifts will help orphaned children attend school this year and provide much-needed school supplies at Butende School. 

 Even more special: students from Hinesburg and Butende have been connecting through live video visits and letter exchanges throughout the school year. It's been incredible to watch these friendships grow.

This week also brought another bright moment. I had the chance to speak with students in the Interact Club at Pinecrest High School in North Carolina about our work.  Interact clubs are service clubs sponsored by local Rotary Clubs for youth aged 12 to 18.

These students are passionate about service, both locally and globally, and are excited to get involved in our food security projects in Uganda.

Spending time with young people who care so deeply about others always renews my hope for the future!

 With Gratitude,

Mary

P.S.  If you know a group, students, adults, or community members who'd be interested in hearing about our programs in Uganda, I'd love to connect. I truly enjoy sharing the culture, the stories, and the progress we're making together.