before the trip

I have finally found enough courage to do what I have wanted for many years - volunteer in Kenya!
I have been accepted in a project through ICYE to work for 16 weeks at Imani Children's Home in Kayole (about 20 min drive from Nairobi). I am very excited about this opportunity and hope to make a difference in many children's lives...

In Nairobi, Kenya it is estimated that there are over 60,000 children living on the streets. Most of these children go to the streets to escape poverty or battering at home or perhaps they were orphaned due to AIDS. Once on the street and with the introduction of freedom from responsibility and addictive substances such as glue and marijuana, children become forgotten members of society and lose hope for a brighter future.

Imani Rehabilitation Agency was established to cater for the needs of such children. More than anything else the founder, FaithWanjiru a devoted Christian, wanted to provide these children with love and hope for the future.

Volunteer tasks & Role

• Taking care of children aged 0 to 3 years e.g. nursing the babies, and helping in preparing their food.
• Teaching at the nursery school. The subjects taught will include English (that is helping the children to read and write in English), and basic mathematics. Other subjects on the school curriculum can also be taught depending on the qualifications and skills of the volunteer.
• Assist the teachers in organising extra curricular activities such as sport and drama
  

My planned departure date is 23rd January and although it might seem like a long time ahead, I have a £2500 min target to raise (which I would really love to exceed)... I hope that you will be able to support my efforts. I have taken unpaid leave to do this project so as you can see this isn't a holiday and any amount that you can spare will be greatly appreciated.

I will keep you updated once in Kenya on the progress made...

Thank you for taking time to read this - I really count on your support.

Warm Regards,
Liliana

http://www.justgiving.com/lilianavandyk