BGC - South Africa

Hi there.

Wanted to take a few minutes to write about something very close to my heart.

Africa.

Specifically South Africa and a little place called Botshabelo. It is a home, an orphanage, a place where people reach out and help each other. Founded by Con and Marion Cloete in 1990, it is now home to about 1,500 people.

"Botshabelo and the Cloete's are dedicated to improving the lives of the economically challenged, especially children who have been orphaned by or exposed to HIV/AIDS. Using the traditional African village (and its inherent ubuntu values of cooperation and joint responsibility) as a model, the community works together to break the cycle of poverty and bring hope, safety, education and sustainable growth to all residents. Botshabelo has worked to become a self-sustaining community and, more importantly, a place of safety and family to South Africa's AIDS orphans and economic orphans." (from BGC's website)

But they need help. If you are willing, they need your help.

Some can go and help. Others can give to help. Please visit http://www.buildingaglobalcommunity.org/ it is an organization dedicated to helping Botshabelo and other places like it. I've personally gone to this village and have seen first hand the growing hope and the seemingly endless need.

I know there are lots of organizations and causes out there to give your time, money and talents to. This is one I have chosen. Africa has been in my heart since the mid '90s when I saw the movie "The Power of One." It transformed my outlook on life. Last year, I finally read the semi-autobiographical book that the movie was inspired by. A few weeks later I myself was in South Africa for the first time.

It was a trip I will never forget. Not long after returning home I was asked to join the board of Building a Global Community. I happily accepted.

If you visit BGC's site, please consider donating. There are several projects they are a part of. If you want funds to go specifically to Botshabelo, indicate that on your check or via PayPal. I can assure you that the money goes right to help the lives of those in need.

If you are of the documentary viewing sort, check out "Angels in the Dust." It's all about the Cloete's and a few of the children living in Botshabelo. [link]

Thanks,
-Jersey