We asked our board members, “Why do you give to Our Kenyan Kids?”  The first to answer was Vicki Lynch Grier.

Vicki at Our Kenyan Kids fundraiser. (Photo credit to: https://www.facebook.com/snapd1000Islands)

Years ago, as a 12 year old girl, waiting tables at a summer resort, I served a wonderful couple. She was white and he was black. I had a hard time when I had to serve them in a private dining room away from the whites.  That hurt me more that I can say. At that time, I knew I had to try to make changes where I could.

Then I heard Kevin Smith speak at St Johns United Church one Sunday about his work in Africa. I, with healthy children and grandchildren, felt my heart strings pulling again. Then, with my work, I met Audrey Butterill whose family was very involved with Our Kenyan Kids.

God was working.

I went on my first trip to Kenya and I fell in love. My heart broke for the children. With what I saw felt and learned, well, you would have to be cold-hearted or dead not to want to help.  I made a second trip and felt the same way. I hope one day to go again but in the mean time I will fund raise to help as I can.

The children and adults in Kenya I met know only poverty and hunger. They were shy, not bold, and thankful – with smiles that light up the world.

I found out that the commercials on TV are real. They do live in dumps, eat in dumps, and play in dumps. This is why I collect liquor, beer, and wine bottles where ever I can. I cash them in and the money goes to Our Kenyan Kids.

I challenge you – What can you do to help?