We have a community website with all of our pictures posted on Snapfish.com.
http://www2.snapfish.com/share/p=139261246054528491/l=1042520023/g=919486023/otsc=SYE/otsi=SALB Hopefully that link works! :)
We should have some facebook albums going soon as well.
Friday, June 26, 2009
Clarity
Many of you had told me before I left that this mission trip to Kenya would be life-changing. I could have never estimated the power of this experience. God worked through me in so many ways. I feel clarity from Him. I feel that I have been truly blessed and through these blessings, I need to use my abilities from God to continue His work. I feel strongly for the children in Kenya. I know there is suffering, pain and destitution all over the world. However, God has focused my heart on the children in the Kinyago Dandora slum. I plan to continue His work in this community through education of the cause and continued support in whatever form God sees necessary. I feel so strongly on this partnership that I have asked Ginger, the president and CEO of Kenya Children's Fund, to mentor me. She is an amazing Christian role model with a vision to perform God's will where many have turned their backs.
I feel it is no coincidence that God brought Cindy and I together at Heather Cox's baby shower and absolutely no coincidence but God smiling when I walked off the van upon arriving at our hotel in Nairobi and saw a fashionable blonde not afraid to express herself there to lead us on our trip. All I could think was, "I won't be to western looking! I can wear make-up! She has jewelry on, I can wear jewelry!" Obviously outward appearance has nothing to do with what is inside of a person, but it made me feel more comfortable in a new situation. I feel so incredibly blessed to be in a community of people that feel so strongly about the Lord and His work to be done!
God continued to speak to me through scripture upon my return from Kenya:
"Do not withhold good from those who deserve it, when it is in your power to act." Proverbs 3:27.
There is no way to turn back and forget what we saw in the eyes of the children and streets of Dandora. My life has been invaluably enriched from this experience, and I plan to use my knowledge and gifts to enrich those who so very much deserve it. For now, that means the children in my little piece of Heaven, Kinyago-Dandora, in Nairobi, Kenya.
"Blessed is he who is kind to the needy." Proverbs 14:21.
His,
Jen
I feel it is no coincidence that God brought Cindy and I together at Heather Cox's baby shower and absolutely no coincidence but God smiling when I walked off the van upon arriving at our hotel in Nairobi and saw a fashionable blonde not afraid to express herself there to lead us on our trip. All I could think was, "I won't be to western looking! I can wear make-up! She has jewelry on, I can wear jewelry!" Obviously outward appearance has nothing to do with what is inside of a person, but it made me feel more comfortable in a new situation. I feel so incredibly blessed to be in a community of people that feel so strongly about the Lord and His work to be done!
God continued to speak to me through scripture upon my return from Kenya:
"Do not withhold good from those who deserve it, when it is in your power to act." Proverbs 3:27.
There is no way to turn back and forget what we saw in the eyes of the children and streets of Dandora. My life has been invaluably enriched from this experience, and I plan to use my knowledge and gifts to enrich those who so very much deserve it. For now, that means the children in my little piece of Heaven, Kinyago-Dandora, in Nairobi, Kenya.
"Blessed is he who is kind to the needy." Proverbs 14:21.
His,
Jen
Celebration day/Good byes
Wednesday was our final day in Nairobi. It was very sad to leave our new friends in Kenya. There was a beautiful celebration at both schools in our honor. The celebrations included traditional dance, singing, nursery students reciting scripture (AH, can we take them home please???), rapping for the Lord, poetry and a myriad of other things to show their thankfulness to the visitors. We were all thoroughly moved at each school's performance. Don't assume this was a spectator sport though--we were up dancing quite a bit as well! We felt God's love as we celebrated a union with the children and staff of KDS and KDSS. It reaffirmed our wants to return the following year to continue to serve our Lord.
If you haven't guessed already... KENYA 2010
We have already started planning our trip for our return to Kenya next June. We are looking for more teachers to go next year. We are especially looking for science and math teachers in the middle and high school grades. This trip was absolutely life-changing. I cannot express that enough. Please don't let your fears prevent you from serving God's children in Kenya if you are called to do so.
Flexibility, creativity and the love of Christ are all you need! (OK and a couple of shots...)
Flexibility, creativity and the love of Christ are all you need! (OK and a couple of shots...)
Visit to the KDSS
On Monday afternoon, we visited the Kinyago Dandora Secondary School. This year marks a very special year for the KDS community. The first graduating class from KDS that began in Nursery is graduating secondary school! For years, the children of KDS would go off to other secondary schools around the country. This posed problems as it removed the children from their communities, prevented a lot of communication between students and the Kenya Children's Fund staff, and did not guarantee a Christian education. In 2006, the Kinyago Dandora Secondary School opened. This gave the students an opportunity to remain in their community while continuing their education to serve as an agent of change. The students are so incredibly motivated to succeed. Ask any student here--they will blow you away with their genuine answers about their future, success, Dandora, and working to create a place of hope and opportunity for the despondent and sheep that have not yet found their shepherd.
On Wednesday afternoon (celebration day), we were able to interact with the students as they prepared for the celebration in our honor. I was astonished with their aspirations. There is no selfish ambition here--every student I spoke to discussed a future goal with hopes to come back and serve the community in some way. Some even have started ministering in their own community. A group has started an art class for handicapped children. Their mission is to show the children that they are not lost to society and that people still care for them. Others are working with Wendy, the other teacher that was with us for part of the trip, on a photography and journaling project that shows the hardship and experience of life in Dandora as well as the hope that comes from more importantly Christ, and the value and power of education. These students are hard-working, motivated students that study very hard, take care of their families, and love Christ with all their hearts. Kenya needs leaders from within to educate, motivate and inspire change. KDSS is shaping young leaders to do this!
We also met with the KDSS teachers to discuss needs and to start planning for a trip in the future like ours at KDSS. It was very successful. We are excited to bring new ideas and help the teachers at KDSS as well.
On Wednesday afternoon (celebration day), we were able to interact with the students as they prepared for the celebration in our honor. I was astonished with their aspirations. There is no selfish ambition here--every student I spoke to discussed a future goal with hopes to come back and serve the community in some way. Some even have started ministering in their own community. A group has started an art class for handicapped children. Their mission is to show the children that they are not lost to society and that people still care for them. Others are working with Wendy, the other teacher that was with us for part of the trip, on a photography and journaling project that shows the hardship and experience of life in Dandora as well as the hope that comes from more importantly Christ, and the value and power of education. These students are hard-working, motivated students that study very hard, take care of their families, and love Christ with all their hearts. Kenya needs leaders from within to educate, motivate and inspire change. KDSS is shaping young leaders to do this!
We also met with the KDSS teachers to discuss needs and to start planning for a trip in the future like ours at KDSS. It was very successful. We are excited to bring new ideas and help the teachers at KDSS as well.
Final days teaching at KDS
We spent Monday morning and all of Tuesday working with the teachers and students at KDS. We all spent time in a variety of grade levels and subject areas throughout our teaching. We tried to incorporate teaching strategies that we use everyday into our lessons. Some of these strategies include cooperative grouping, educational games, environmental changes, art projects, alternate study materials, and hands-on experiments. We were amazed by how resourceful the teachers are at KDS. With so few materials and resources, the teachers are truly able to do so much.
We were inspired to work hard each night to collectively and individually plan for our lessons. We spent ample time researching on the internet and preparing for our lessons as there are some curriculum differences. We even joked that we spent more time lesson planning in Kenya than we do in the USA. (You'd be surprised on how much teacher homework you have without a teacher's edition!)
We all developed connections with the staff and students at KDS. It is remarkable to see how God is working in the lives of the people involved with the Kinyago Dandora School. The visionaries behind the school have truly put their hearts and heads into supporting God's vision at KDS. Pray that the benevolence of supporters continues to be able to do more in the community!
We were inspired to work hard each night to collectively and individually plan for our lessons. We spent ample time researching on the internet and preparing for our lessons as there are some curriculum differences. We even joked that we spent more time lesson planning in Kenya than we do in the USA. (You'd be surprised on how much teacher homework you have without a teacher's edition!)
We all developed connections with the staff and students at KDS. It is remarkable to see how God is working in the lives of the people involved with the Kinyago Dandora School. The visionaries behind the school have truly put their hearts and heads into supporting God's vision at KDS. Pray that the benevolence of supporters continues to be able to do more in the community!
Back from hiatus...
Hello to all of our wonderful supporters. Due to our busy schedule after safari, we were not able to update the blog... Here goes: Kenya part two.
Safari:
Safari was marvelous. I've heard many times that God reveals Himself to us in two ways--through scripture and through nature. It is incredibly evident to see the beauty in the African savannahs...untouched, with animals still roaming in their natural habitats. It's mind-blowing to realize that God has thoughtfully created every single aspect of our natural world-the beauty is just unsurmountable. The ride to safari (about 4.5 hours on some bumpy roads) was just as interesting. We saw many Maasai people with their cattle and herds along the way. Their red dress and elaborate jewelry and beading is a beautiful sight. We observed giraffes and zebras along the way, just roaming in the tall grasses. It was very cool to see!
Once we reached Maasai Mara, we checked into our hotel. It was a very nice change from Gracia. :) We stayed in tents--no, not the camping/sleeping bag tents. Instead, there was a nice, stone bathroom with wood laminate floors, with a canvas tent surrounding normal furniture. Upon blowing drying my hair on day two, I blew a fuse. God's way of telling me to not worry about my looks? :) The joke was that you had to make sure you zipped the tent down to the floor or else babboons would come into your tent. We did see babboons near the restaurant. Between meals on Saturday, two swooped in the open air restaurant and stole an orange and some rolls. Some teenage girls spotted this spectacle and began snapping photos. The babboons were not happy with the giggling, photo-snapping girls, so they proceeded to through the orange rind at the girls, followed by a dinner roll. Shortly after, a security guard picked up the roll and tossed it into the trees where it disappeared back into the hands (and bellies) of the babboons.
Over the course of Friday, Saturday and Sunday, we took 4 game drives to observe the animals of Maasai Mara. We saw some incredible animals in their natural habitats. We saw 3 of the "big 5" animals: elephants, buffalo, and lions. We did not see rhinosauruses or leopards, although we searched. The other animals that we observed include zebras, babboons, hippopotamuses, antelopes, cheetahs, giraffes, and many types of birds. We saw some of the circle of life as well--a lion was feasting on a buffalo that he killed (smelly!) and we observed some lions mating (cue Marvin Gaye music). Let's just say there was a lot of giggling happening in our van. Cindy videotaped the scene and had to stop because we could not control ourselves. Very mature, we know.
Safari gave us the opportunity to reflect, rejuvenate, and evaluate our personal goals as well as God's goals for this trip. It is important to see another side of Kenya--it's a disservice to God's world to only see the suffering. He created so much beauty and we were blessed to be able to take it all in. Safari also created a space to share and grow in relationship with one another. It was truly refreshing to be in a community of believers. It helps to grow your faith when you can explore, question and grow without having to constantly defend what you believe.
Safari:
Safari was marvelous. I've heard many times that God reveals Himself to us in two ways--through scripture and through nature. It is incredibly evident to see the beauty in the African savannahs...untouched, with animals still roaming in their natural habitats. It's mind-blowing to realize that God has thoughtfully created every single aspect of our natural world-the beauty is just unsurmountable. The ride to safari (about 4.5 hours on some bumpy roads) was just as interesting. We saw many Maasai people with their cattle and herds along the way. Their red dress and elaborate jewelry and beading is a beautiful sight. We observed giraffes and zebras along the way, just roaming in the tall grasses. It was very cool to see!
Once we reached Maasai Mara, we checked into our hotel. It was a very nice change from Gracia. :) We stayed in tents--no, not the camping/sleeping bag tents. Instead, there was a nice, stone bathroom with wood laminate floors, with a canvas tent surrounding normal furniture. Upon blowing drying my hair on day two, I blew a fuse. God's way of telling me to not worry about my looks? :) The joke was that you had to make sure you zipped the tent down to the floor or else babboons would come into your tent. We did see babboons near the restaurant. Between meals on Saturday, two swooped in the open air restaurant and stole an orange and some rolls. Some teenage girls spotted this spectacle and began snapping photos. The babboons were not happy with the giggling, photo-snapping girls, so they proceeded to through the orange rind at the girls, followed by a dinner roll. Shortly after, a security guard picked up the roll and tossed it into the trees where it disappeared back into the hands (and bellies) of the babboons.
Over the course of Friday, Saturday and Sunday, we took 4 game drives to observe the animals of Maasai Mara. We saw some incredible animals in their natural habitats. We saw 3 of the "big 5" animals: elephants, buffalo, and lions. We did not see rhinosauruses or leopards, although we searched. The other animals that we observed include zebras, babboons, hippopotamuses, antelopes, cheetahs, giraffes, and many types of birds. We saw some of the circle of life as well--a lion was feasting on a buffalo that he killed (smelly!) and we observed some lions mating (cue Marvin Gaye music). Let's just say there was a lot of giggling happening in our van. Cindy videotaped the scene and had to stop because we could not control ourselves. Very mature, we know.
Safari gave us the opportunity to reflect, rejuvenate, and evaluate our personal goals as well as God's goals for this trip. It is important to see another side of Kenya--it's a disservice to God's world to only see the suffering. He created so much beauty and we were blessed to be able to take it all in. Safari also created a space to share and grow in relationship with one another. It was truly refreshing to be in a community of believers. It helps to grow your faith when you can explore, question and grow without having to constantly defend what you believe.
Saturday, June 20, 2009
Like Moses and God
It will take some time to process the sights, sounds, and experiences God led me through in Kenya this summer. Before the trip my friends gathered for intercessory prayer. One phrase that came up was "like Moses and God." This made no sense to me so I pretty much forgot all about it.
Serving in the community I became overwhelmed the enormous amount of suffering and why God had placed me into it. He loves me and has plans for me. But what plans? Why me? Why go to a place of suffering? How there is joy in Christ in this place and what is my path from here? Great comfort came from the team in confirming that they understood my feelings of being overwhelmed and my questions. Ginger gave me a different perspective in reminding me that it isn't about my ability but how God declares He will be with us.
We read Exodus 3:4-12. I was moved to tears as this passage revealed the message God had planted before the trip. God tells Moses He has seen the suffering of the people. Moses asked “Why me? Why am I to go?”
I may never know why God asked me to go to Kinyago-Dandora but knowing He sent me to His precious people who are suffering gives me joy. Another phrase that came up in our group prayer was “It is about so much more than you can see” so I rest in knowing that God is in control and I am completely humbled that He loves me enough to send me.
Cindy
Serving in the community I became overwhelmed the enormous amount of suffering and why God had placed me into it. He loves me and has plans for me. But what plans? Why me? Why go to a place of suffering? How there is joy in Christ in this place and what is my path from here? Great comfort came from the team in confirming that they understood my feelings of being overwhelmed and my questions. Ginger gave me a different perspective in reminding me that it isn't about my ability but how God declares He will be with us.
We read Exodus 3:4-12. I was moved to tears as this passage revealed the message God had planted before the trip. God tells Moses He has seen the suffering of the people. Moses asked “Why me? Why am I to go?”
I may never know why God asked me to go to Kinyago-Dandora but knowing He sent me to His precious people who are suffering gives me joy. Another phrase that came up in our group prayer was “It is about so much more than you can see” so I rest in knowing that God is in control and I am completely humbled that He loves me enough to send me.
Cindy
Friday, June 19, 2009
Friday, June 12, 2009
On safari
Hello family and friends! We are on safari in the beautiful Masai Mara region in Kenya. We have limited access to internet. Posts will resume on SUnday night/Monday. We tahnk everyone for their kind words, prayers, and encouragement.
Victoria-Evelyn is the baby that I am 'bringing home.' Not so much, but she will be my baby for a long time to come!! Thank you to all of my wonderful students that are following and praying--I miss you all!
Victoria-Evelyn is the baby that I am 'bringing home.' Not so much, but she will be my baby for a long time to come!! Thank you to all of my wonderful students that are following and praying--I miss you all!
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Day four at KDS.
Hello everyone! Today was our last day of the week at KDS. It was another eventful day of teaching. The kids are so excited to have us and the teachers are so grateful for our time, preparation, and support. The Lord is accomplishing great feats in everyone's hearts here.
Each day we learn more about the school, the schools in the area, and the overall state of education in Kenya, especially for the poor. 2/3 of the entire country lives in the slums. Although KDS is not fancy, it is a wonderful, sanitary place that provides hope, nutrition, faith-education and love to the children of Dandora. KDS's students and teachers are extremely hard-working, and their national tests scores prove this. Kenya's standards are INCREDIBLY higher than America's. Most people that come to America from Kenya can pass the GED test with an 8th grade education from Kenya. All students are also taught bi-lingually which is equally impressive. KDS is not run as a business as most other schools in the area are. Conditions are also sanitary, meals hearty and healthy, and healthcare is available with no cost to the child or parents. It is truly a place to motivate and definitely make a change. It's simply astounding to see how much can be accomplished with so little. This place is truly a miracle and blessing!
It is a false pretense when you drive into the school's gate, you see plush vegetation, beautiful greenery and gorgeous, pink blooming flowers on trees in the distance. The awful thing is that this vegetation is fueled by sewage and is definitely not able to be eaten. In actuality, there is sewage all over Dandora. We know there is some magical metaphor about the plants, this slum, and the children, but we haven't quite figured it out yet.
Most families in Dandora live in a one-room rented house with neither electricity or rented water. It doesn't matter the size of the family, 3 0r 11, that's pretty much the only option. Children are tempted by peers to pursue a life as a dump kid (searching through trash to sell and eat), join a gang, or do drugs. Some are even forced into lives of crime and prostitution by family members or other people in the neighborhood. The more you learn about it, the more you understand the perservance these children have and the blessing that KDS is.
Thank you everyone for your prayers. Please pray for continued opportunities in the future for these children and teachers.
Today I met my angel, Evelyn. She is absolutely stunning. She stuck out in church on Sunday--she was wearing the most adorable pink ballerina dress. She is sweet, a ham for the camera, and an only child. Coincidence? I think not. She doesn't know much English yet, but she is precious beyond imagination. I thank God for the opportunity to meet Evelyn and the financial means to sponsor her. God-willing, I will sponsor her until she completes University. :) I am also so proud to announce that my wonderful mother is going to sponsor a child, and Leda is too! Cindy is already a Saint--she sponsors 5 children here in Africa, and two of them from the orhpanage are here now! Our internet is being fickle, otherwise I'd post some pictures. We are creating a website like this for all of the women involved to share our photos. As soon as the site is up and running, I will share it.
Love and blessings,
The TIK team
Each day we learn more about the school, the schools in the area, and the overall state of education in Kenya, especially for the poor. 2/3 of the entire country lives in the slums. Although KDS is not fancy, it is a wonderful, sanitary place that provides hope, nutrition, faith-education and love to the children of Dandora. KDS's students and teachers are extremely hard-working, and their national tests scores prove this. Kenya's standards are INCREDIBLY higher than America's. Most people that come to America from Kenya can pass the GED test with an 8th grade education from Kenya. All students are also taught bi-lingually which is equally impressive. KDS is not run as a business as most other schools in the area are. Conditions are also sanitary, meals hearty and healthy, and healthcare is available with no cost to the child or parents. It is truly a place to motivate and definitely make a change. It's simply astounding to see how much can be accomplished with so little. This place is truly a miracle and blessing!
It is a false pretense when you drive into the school's gate, you see plush vegetation, beautiful greenery and gorgeous, pink blooming flowers on trees in the distance. The awful thing is that this vegetation is fueled by sewage and is definitely not able to be eaten. In actuality, there is sewage all over Dandora. We know there is some magical metaphor about the plants, this slum, and the children, but we haven't quite figured it out yet.
Most families in Dandora live in a one-room rented house with neither electricity or rented water. It doesn't matter the size of the family, 3 0r 11, that's pretty much the only option. Children are tempted by peers to pursue a life as a dump kid (searching through trash to sell and eat), join a gang, or do drugs. Some are even forced into lives of crime and prostitution by family members or other people in the neighborhood. The more you learn about it, the more you understand the perservance these children have and the blessing that KDS is.
Thank you everyone for your prayers. Please pray for continued opportunities in the future for these children and teachers.
Today I met my angel, Evelyn. She is absolutely stunning. She stuck out in church on Sunday--she was wearing the most adorable pink ballerina dress. She is sweet, a ham for the camera, and an only child. Coincidence? I think not. She doesn't know much English yet, but she is precious beyond imagination. I thank God for the opportunity to meet Evelyn and the financial means to sponsor her. God-willing, I will sponsor her until she completes University. :) I am also so proud to announce that my wonderful mother is going to sponsor a child, and Leda is too! Cindy is already a Saint--she sponsors 5 children here in Africa, and two of them from the orhpanage are here now! Our internet is being fickle, otherwise I'd post some pictures. We are creating a website like this for all of the women involved to share our photos. As soon as the site is up and running, I will share it.
Love and blessings,
The TIK team
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Day three at KDS
Hello everyone! Thank you for your encouraging words and prayers! Today was another amazing day at KDS! We were able to spend our entire day teaching throughout the school. The children are such an inspiration, and we are so blessed to take part in their story. Each day as we drive in and out of Dandora, our hearts are transformed even more. We feel no pity, no disgust. Instead respect and inspiration grow as we observe the community surrounding KDS. These people are skilled, hard-working, inspired and most of all, faithful beyond belief. In the face of challenge and struggle, there is ambition, strength, resilience and hope. As a result, we aspire to use our resources and gifts from God as much as we can to help others.
I am so overjoyed to announce that I am sponsoring a beautiful baby girl from the Nursery class named Evelyn. Pictures to come soon! I can't change the whole world, but I CAN change the world of one child!! (that is Kenya Children's Fund's motto) See the Everett Hale quote below, it's awesome! PS-mom, this is the closest thing you get to a grandbaby for a long time, so revel in it!!!
-Jen
Here are some quotes that have been resonating in our hearts:
"It's not my ability, but my response to God's ability that counts." -Corrie Ten Boom
"I choose to identify with the underprivileged. I choose to identify with the poor. I choose to give my life for the hungry. I choose to give my life for those who have been left out of the sunlight of opportunity. I choose to live for and with those who find themselves seeing life as a long and desolate corridor with no exit sign. This is the way I am going. If it means suffering a little bit, I'm going that way. If it means sacrificing, I am going that way. If it means dying for them, I'm going that way because I heard a voice saying, "DO SOMETHING FOR OTHERS." -Martin Luther King, Jr.
"I am only one, but I am one. I cannot do everything, but I can do something. What I can do, I should do, and with the help of God, I WILL DO!" -Everett Hale
Please feel free to leave a passage in the comments section to share with us.
His,
The TeachInKenya2009 Team
I am so overjoyed to announce that I am sponsoring a beautiful baby girl from the Nursery class named Evelyn. Pictures to come soon! I can't change the whole world, but I CAN change the world of one child!! (that is Kenya Children's Fund's motto) See the Everett Hale quote below, it's awesome! PS-mom, this is the closest thing you get to a grandbaby for a long time, so revel in it!!!
-Jen
Here are some quotes that have been resonating in our hearts:
"It's not my ability, but my response to God's ability that counts." -Corrie Ten Boom
"I choose to identify with the underprivileged. I choose to identify with the poor. I choose to give my life for the hungry. I choose to give my life for those who have been left out of the sunlight of opportunity. I choose to live for and with those who find themselves seeing life as a long and desolate corridor with no exit sign. This is the way I am going. If it means suffering a little bit, I'm going that way. If it means sacrificing, I am going that way. If it means dying for them, I'm going that way because I heard a voice saying, "DO SOMETHING FOR OTHERS." -Martin Luther King, Jr.
"I am only one, but I am one. I cannot do everything, but I can do something. What I can do, I should do, and with the help of God, I WILL DO!" -Everett Hale
Please feel free to leave a passage in the comments section to share with us.
His,
The TeachInKenya2009 Team
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Day Two-hard at work
We have been working very hard at the school with the staff and students. It is a joy to interact with these wonderful people. We are so grateful for what God is doing at KDS and how He is working through us daily to support the needs at KDS.
It is heart-wrenching to see the absolute sea of destitution that these people live in the slum where we are working, one of the top ten worst slums in the WORLD, but the absolute hope in these children's eyes is just amazing. There is so much to take in every day. Some of the things we learn are indescribable. As we drive each day in and out of the various slums to reach phase 4 of Dandora, its like watching an awful tv show that you can't turn off when the "60 minutes" special is over. The smells, the sights, the trash everywhere, it is literally and figuratively nauseating. The entire city of Nairobi dumps their trash, even the toxic trash from hospitals, etc. into the Kinyago-Dandora slum. There are wild animals grazing on trash everywhere. The living conditions are just horrific--it is literally one of the top ten filthiest places to live in in the WORLD according to the United Nations because Kinyago-Dandora is built on a dump. The sheer amounts of lead, mercury and other toxins from the dump in these kids' blood is deadly. But they still score so highly on national exams despite these extreme deficits, they are happy and truly blessed. Looking at this school in comparison to American standards, its an absolute mess with nothing. There are 45-53 kids in each class with no space to move and barely any materials. To these kids, it is a sheer blessing and the grace of God that has put them there. This school is a home to them when the outside world shuns them as slumdogs, as trash, as inconsequential nothings. However, their faith is insurmountable. Their joy and passion for God is an inspiration. This school is their light, their way out. They are empowered through education and want to help and inspire their community. Many have even started to work in their communities now. Please pray for the teachers and the staff as well as our team that we continue to travel safely, work successfully, and let God work through us each day as He chooses. If you feel moved to help the Kinyago-Dandora School, which is solely funded by Kenya Children's Fund, please visit the website, www.kenyachildrensfund.org to learn how to donate or sponsor a child for one year. It is only ONE DOLLAR a day to send a child to school for the year which includes their education, two hearty meals a day [for most of the kids, this is all they eat all day], and medical attention whenever necessary. They need God and they need loving, compassionate people that care, that won't avoid the situation. If you want to learn more, we have DVD's to share that tell the story of the school and of the children at KDS. If nothing else, they need your prayers.
His,
The TeachKenya2009 Team
It is heart-wrenching to see the absolute sea of destitution that these people live in the slum where we are working, one of the top ten worst slums in the WORLD, but the absolute hope in these children's eyes is just amazing. There is so much to take in every day. Some of the things we learn are indescribable. As we drive each day in and out of the various slums to reach phase 4 of Dandora, its like watching an awful tv show that you can't turn off when the "60 minutes" special is over. The smells, the sights, the trash everywhere, it is literally and figuratively nauseating. The entire city of Nairobi dumps their trash, even the toxic trash from hospitals, etc. into the Kinyago-Dandora slum. There are wild animals grazing on trash everywhere. The living conditions are just horrific--it is literally one of the top ten filthiest places to live in in the WORLD according to the United Nations because Kinyago-Dandora is built on a dump. The sheer amounts of lead, mercury and other toxins from the dump in these kids' blood is deadly. But they still score so highly on national exams despite these extreme deficits, they are happy and truly blessed. Looking at this school in comparison to American standards, its an absolute mess with nothing. There are 45-53 kids in each class with no space to move and barely any materials. To these kids, it is a sheer blessing and the grace of God that has put them there. This school is a home to them when the outside world shuns them as slumdogs, as trash, as inconsequential nothings. However, their faith is insurmountable. Their joy and passion for God is an inspiration. This school is their light, their way out. They are empowered through education and want to help and inspire their community. Many have even started to work in their communities now. Please pray for the teachers and the staff as well as our team that we continue to travel safely, work successfully, and let God work through us each day as He chooses. If you feel moved to help the Kinyago-Dandora School, which is solely funded by Kenya Children's Fund, please visit the website, www.kenyachildrensfund.org to learn how to donate or sponsor a child for one year. It is only ONE DOLLAR a day to send a child to school for the year which includes their education, two hearty meals a day [for most of the kids, this is all they eat all day], and medical attention whenever necessary. They need God and they need loving, compassionate people that care, that won't avoid the situation. If you want to learn more, we have DVD's to share that tell the story of the school and of the children at KDS. If nothing else, they need your prayers.
His,
The TeachKenya2009 Team
Monday, June 8, 2009
Our trip so far!
Hello family and friends! Our trip has been a very exciting one thus far! We spent all day Friday and Saturday traveling. We began our trip here by worshiping in the Kinyago-Dandora community, where it was held in the cafeteria of the school that we are serving. Kinyago-Dandora School (KDS) is about 45 minutes away without traffic from where we are staying.
There was lots of singing and dancing, and the love for the Lord was incredibly evident. The service was held in English and Kiswahili. For the all of the students, English is their second language. They begin English when they enroll at KDS in "nursery" which is our equivalent to pre-kindergarten. It was amazing to see and feel the excitement of the students and staff present for our arrival. The children were very friendly and just precious! We all look forward to forming relationships with both the staff and students throughout the next week.
After worship, we went to an open air market in Nairobi. If you think the perfume ladies in your favorite department store are pushy, you haven't seen anything! Given the state of decreased tourism in the Kenyan economy, all of the sellers were incredibly aggressive to make a sale. There were some absolutely gorgeous handmade pieces--bowls, sculpture, figurines, etc. We all picked up some great goodies after much bartering (they love to barter!).
Today was an incredible day. Never have we felt like rockstars/politicians/Lindsay Lohan until today. As we drove into the school gates, screams of "Ginger" rang out. Shortly after, the van was swarmed with 600 screaming, smiling children greeting us! Ginger is the President and CEO of Kenya Children's Fund which is the sole financial backer of this school. The children know great things happen when Ginger comes! After lots of singing, dancing, hand holding and pictures, we began our day with devotions and a school tour. It is absolutely mind-blowing to see how much these children and teachers are able to accomplish with so little. We had our initial meeting with the Nursery, kindergarten, 1, 2, and 3 teachers. It was wonderful to work together to determine what struggles the teachers are having, and planning lessons to fit their needs. Tomorrow is our first day of teaching, and we are all so excited!
Things you are wondering about...
1. The food is great--it's skewed towards an American fare, and we have all been fine. No goat and no sore tummies!
2. There is hot, running water and flushing toilets.
3. Cindy and Jen were successfully able to use the blow dryer and straightner (YES!!!) to do our hair.
4. Leda looks gorgeous every second of the day with her braids (lucky!).
Many of you mentioned the slum situation here. It is undescribable however, these children are filled with a hope and love that I can only hope to have one day. Please keep praying for the staff and children of the school. They need love, support, $$$$$, and most of all your prayers.
Signing off!
There was lots of singing and dancing, and the love for the Lord was incredibly evident. The service was held in English and Kiswahili. For the all of the students, English is their second language. They begin English when they enroll at KDS in "nursery" which is our equivalent to pre-kindergarten. It was amazing to see and feel the excitement of the students and staff present for our arrival. The children were very friendly and just precious! We all look forward to forming relationships with both the staff and students throughout the next week.
After worship, we went to an open air market in Nairobi. If you think the perfume ladies in your favorite department store are pushy, you haven't seen anything! Given the state of decreased tourism in the Kenyan economy, all of the sellers were incredibly aggressive to make a sale. There were some absolutely gorgeous handmade pieces--bowls, sculpture, figurines, etc. We all picked up some great goodies after much bartering (they love to barter!).
Today was an incredible day. Never have we felt like rockstars/politicians/Lindsay Lohan until today. As we drove into the school gates, screams of "Ginger" rang out. Shortly after, the van was swarmed with 600 screaming, smiling children greeting us! Ginger is the President and CEO of Kenya Children's Fund which is the sole financial backer of this school. The children know great things happen when Ginger comes! After lots of singing, dancing, hand holding and pictures, we began our day with devotions and a school tour. It is absolutely mind-blowing to see how much these children and teachers are able to accomplish with so little. We had our initial meeting with the Nursery, kindergarten, 1, 2, and 3 teachers. It was wonderful to work together to determine what struggles the teachers are having, and planning lessons to fit their needs. Tomorrow is our first day of teaching, and we are all so excited!
Things you are wondering about...
1. The food is great--it's skewed towards an American fare, and we have all been fine. No goat and no sore tummies!
2. There is hot, running water and flushing toilets.
3. Cindy and Jen were successfully able to use the blow dryer and straightner (YES!!!) to do our hair.
4. Leda looks gorgeous every second of the day with her braids (lucky!).
Many of you mentioned the slum situation here. It is undescribable however, these children are filled with a hope and love that I can only hope to have one day. Please keep praying for the staff and children of the school. They need love, support, $$$$$, and most of all your prayers.
Signing off!
Friday, June 5, 2009
We've made it to Amsterdam!
Hello everyone! We are very excited to tell you that we are halfway there! We arrived safely to Amsterdam about an hour ago. It's gorgeous and sunny here. In about 45 minutes we will board our connecting flight to Nairobi. Being teachers, we did have to walk through the museum to peruse the Dutch art exhibit of famous Dutch masters. Apparently, we are nerdy on two continents.
Keep prayin'!
Keep prayin'!
Today is the day!
Prayer warriors, please pray for our team! We leave this afternoon! Pray for strength, courage, flexibility, love and the ability to serve Him and the precious Kenyans to the best of our abilities. Pray that we trust in God as we embark on this magnificent journey! Safe, uneventful travels would also be a great thing to pray for too! :)
Thank you for all of your prayers and generosity that have made it possible to send us there!
Jen
Thank you for all of your prayers and generosity that have made it possible to send us there!
Jen
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
THREE DAYS!
Hello everyone! As our trip nears, we are praying and preparing thoughtfully for our journey. Please keep us in your prayers during our mission which begins in Atlanta on Friday, June 5th when we arrive at the airport at 2:00pm and ends on June 18th at 1:40pm when we arrive back on American soil. We have been SO blessed by everyone's support and we are so thankful for God's peace, guidance, love and support for this trip.
We have partnered with Kenya Children's Fund for this mission trip. http://www.kenyachildrensfund.org/
We are flying Northwest Airlines to Amsterdam then Royal Dutch Airlines to Nairobi, Kenya. For all those concerned on specifics: (read: my parents) Flying there: June 5th we depart from ATL at 4:40pm, arrive in Amesterdam at 7:25am, leave Amsterdam at 10:25am to fly into Nairobi at 7:05pm. Returning: (HELLO JETLAG) June 17th 10:05pm from Nairobi, fly into Amsterdam at 5:30am, leave Amsterdam at 10:20am and fly into ATL at 1:40pm on June 18th.
We will be staying at the Gracias Gardens Guesthouse. Here is the website to take a peak, however, the actual Guest house that we are staying in is not on here. http://www.graciahotels.com/gracia_gardens.php
We will be working with the precious children and teachers of the Kinyago-Dandora School. http://www.kenyachildrensfund.org/Primary.asp
We will also travel to Masai Mara, a Kenyan safari, for 2 days. http://www.masaimara.org/
The school still has urgent needs, so please contact one of us before Friday if you would like to contribute!
We will update as much as possible while we are there to share our experiences, let our loved ones know we are safe, and try to share the love that Jesus has put in our hearts through this trip.
"Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? ... I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." Romans 8: 35-39.
His, Jen
We have partnered with Kenya Children's Fund for this mission trip. http://www.kenyachildrensfund.org/
We are flying Northwest Airlines to Amsterdam then Royal Dutch Airlines to Nairobi, Kenya. For all those concerned on specifics: (read: my parents) Flying there: June 5th we depart from ATL at 4:40pm, arrive in Amesterdam at 7:25am, leave Amsterdam at 10:25am to fly into Nairobi at 7:05pm. Returning: (HELLO JETLAG) June 17th 10:05pm from Nairobi, fly into Amsterdam at 5:30am, leave Amsterdam at 10:20am and fly into ATL at 1:40pm on June 18th.
We will be staying at the Gracias Gardens Guesthouse. Here is the website to take a peak, however, the actual Guest house that we are staying in is not on here. http://www.graciahotels.com/gracia_gardens.php
We will be working with the precious children and teachers of the Kinyago-Dandora School. http://www.kenyachildrensfund.org/Primary.asp
We will also travel to Masai Mara, a Kenyan safari, for 2 days. http://www.masaimara.org/
The school still has urgent needs, so please contact one of us before Friday if you would like to contribute!
We will update as much as possible while we are there to share our experiences, let our loved ones know we are safe, and try to share the love that Jesus has put in our hearts through this trip.
"Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? ... I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." Romans 8: 35-39.
His, Jen
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