Diving In

MONDAY, JANUARY 11

There was a flurry of activity today getting ready for Lynn and her group. Although a smaller group this time, TAFCOM always rolls out the red carpet. Early afternoon their van arrived. I was the Emcee for the Welcoming Celebration. After all the introductions, Jonas gave a poignant, eloquent presentation on the history and programs of TACOM. I talked about my volunteer experiences and, as always, got choked up. My passion runs deep. The children were adorable as expected and did a great job with songs, chants and even a skit.

After a short break, we headed out to Minnesota Academy to see the progress on the 2^nd building. When completed, the Minnesota Academy, which sits on approximately 5 acres of land, will educate primary students in grades 1-7. In addition, there will be a library and dormitory. It is not uncommon for private schools to provide housing for students. Jonas envisions this housing for those who may have some special needs or need an environment that is safe and nurturing as well as for those who live farther away.

We all met up for dinner at Indo-Italiano which caters to tourists and has very good food. I enjoyed my first beer this trip. Tanzania beer is pretty decent, the Kilimanjaro brand being one of my favorites.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 12

Today is the public holiday known as Zanzibar Revolution, commemorating Zanzibar’s independence in 1964. There was no school and although most stores remain open, government offices and banks do close. Nie and I went through 2 duffle bags of donations brought by Lynn. I am thrilled about the Hooked on Phonics material which will be so stimulating and exciting for the kids. Lynn has some connection to a Healthy Smiles continuing grant that provides toothbrushes, toothpaste and dental floss for the school children.

From healthy teeth to healthy bodies…One of my friends wanted to contribute to improve nutrition for the children. I bought some very large bags of raisins and jars of cinnamon at Costco before I left. We are adding them to the children's daily porridge and they love it, especially the raisins which they do not have here. They do have grapes, however. I will be getting some local honey since I had to watch my weight limits on the luggage and I did not relish the thought of a jar breaking in the suitcase! It is encouraging to know that the kids are grateful, love the great taste, and are receiving a dose of good nutrients.

Nie, Jonas and I had a good discussion about program and administration priorities. Nie and I then planned out the projects I would work on, setting a flexible timetable with weekly reviews. I typically am involved in a lot of organizational tasks along with e few larger projects. Elizabeth and I will be categorizing and labeling all the resource material for the teachers. Observing in the classroom is always beneficial and the teachers are eager for ideas. I am impressed with the teaching staff which is about 50/50 male and female. Updating the profiles for home-based, tailoring and the children is something I do whenever I come. As sad as the stories are, learning about the families and students keeps things in perspective and reinforces the importance and impact of TAFCOM.

Because TAFCOM is dependent on its donors, fundraising always plays a role for me. I am grateful to all those who have contributed thus far. I will offer opportunities for specific needs throughout my time here and hope that others will be moved to help out. It is amazing how far a small amount can go to make a difference.

I am convinced that Micro Loans are a powerful tool for alleviating poverty. Each time I visit we plan a program for at least 10 recipients. The Micro Loan program was started in 2010 by another volunteer. The Micro Loan allows a family to start or expand an existing business. The loans are typically $100 USD and include a Business Management workshop. Many of the parents TAFCOM works with did not attend Secondary School (HS) and desire a good education for their children. I have seen the sacrifices made by these families. Public school is “free”, according to the government, but each school charges fees and there are expenses for supplies and uniforms. These loans, although not lifting people out of poverty, do provide hope for a better future for the children. I highly recommend the book, Creating A World Without Poverty by Nobel Peace Prize winner Muhammad Yunus who developed the concept of the Micro Loan.

The afternoon was spent in Moshi with Ellie, visiting the open market to buy fruits and vegetables and picking up supplies for Minnesota Academy. Ellie is a very good cook and graduated first in her class at Hospitality Management School. I enjoy her company and we occasionally take afternoon walks together. She pushes me to speak Swahili which I also appreciate.

We rode the daladala home. This is the “Bus” system. The daladala resembles a very old, dilapidated VW bus, similar to the ones from the 60’s and possibly as old. The doors rarely work and the money collector often hangs on the outside so they can cram even more people inside. There is no limit; people stand, sit and take many awkward positions. This mode of transportation is not for the claustrophobic as a typical ride will present the opportunity of intimate contact with 20+ people for only $.20.

 

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 13

It feels good to be getting into a routine. I am not typically a very structured person nor an early riser. However, that is all different here. I am usually awake by 5:30am. I start my day with some meditation & exercises, and then go for a 30-40 minute run. Breakfast is brought to my room. (I know – how spoiled is that??) I cannot sit for a leisurely breakfast so I get ready and eat at the same time. Tea, fresh fruit, juice and an egg or biscuit with peanut butter is my usual fare. Once I am ready for the day I walk out my door, take about 5 steps and I am in the TAFCOM office!

Elizabeth and I are diving into the resource bookshelf. The books were somewhat organized from my last visit so dividing them by subject topic was the easy part. The next step is entering everything into a database and labeling. It is noteworthy that the teacher training in this country is far behind the western world. Resources are not commonly available and most classrooms may have only one textbook per subject.

We are becoming very familiar with what is available which will make it easier to help the teachers. This project is going to take several days. We will then meet with the head teacher and do an orientation with all the teachers. Not only will time be spent showing them what resources are available but also demonstrating how to creatively use the material. There are also many reading books for all levels. These will be incorporated into the curriculum and also saved for a future library.

I am feeling very grateful for so many things…the life I have that allows me these amazing opportunities and experiences, and the people I am surrounded by whose hearts are so full of love, appreciation and generosity.