It’s been said that it takes a village to raise a child, which is why a group of local volunteers is hosting two fundraisers to raise money for Heart to Heart Africa – a charity aimed at educating women and children in a Tanzanian village.
Teachers Leslie Nimeth, Michelle Foote and Josie Kvas-Jemec all got involved with the charity about five years ago. Through various small fundraisers, they have raised between $2,000 and $5,000 each year to help build classrooms and a well in Kitonga. This year, however, they have set their sights much higher.
“We’re doing two big fundraisers,” said Nimeth, listing a three-course Tanzanian dinner this Sunday, and a boat cruise/dinner on June 15.
“If you’re looking (at) giving to a charity and getting value for your dollar, this is it,” said Foote, adding since the charity first arrived in the east African village, nearly half the girls now attend school. “The purpose is to educate no matter what the denomination. Anyone in the village is entitled to the education.”
Foote said although the organization started by building classrooms, it has since constructed a well and provided numerous containers full of much-needed items for the residents.
Heart to Heart Africa continues to return to the same village in hopes of helping residents become self-sustainable.
“You are starting with kids in preschool almost, and following them through their whole educational career,” said Nimeth. “Between the health care and education that comes in, the whole village can prosper rather than just doing a little bit of something and feeding them for a short time.
“There’s a longevity and they can sustain themselves with time.”
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