tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28615253423878033002011-07-28T14:47:32.379-07:00Helping the children of Uganda and East Africa achieve their promisec.darren mazurathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14830806219971380186noreply@blogger.comBlogger1961100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-19158308635228096952010-07-20T00:00:00.000-07:002010-07-20T00:03:21.701-07:00

<!--[if gte mso 9]> Normal 0 false false false MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 <![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]> <![endif]--><!--[if !mso]> st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } <![endif]--> <!-- /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan;

Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04221331809852833064noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-54781691648458548272010-07-15T11:03:00.000-07:002010-07-15T12:54:27.868-07:00

Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04221331809852833064noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-34645450891209308012010-07-15T07:44:00.000-07:002010-07-15T11:02:37.173-07:00

There is always so much happening and at the end of the day, there is so little energy on my part to be able to write everything that I want to share. I am no longer waking up at 2am so there isn’t a chance for me to muse during the night. As it is, this is my second attempt at this post because my computer shut down after the first few paragraphs were typed. T.I.A. the kids say – This Is

Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04221331809852833064noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-57776529235857058202010-07-15T07:24:00.000-07:002010-07-15T07:29:21.573-07:00

Yesterday morning my heart broke. We were at the Nateete orphan school for the morning and Malcolm, Dylan, Emily and Rhonda put on a concert for the school. They used Rhonda's How Canada Came to Be cd and had all the students paddling canoes, singing about bears and explorers. It was great. It was probably one of the only cultural performances that school has had. After we split up into

Karine Liegmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12001699403921917087noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-49547319251451865842010-07-15T07:15:00.000-07:002010-07-15T07:20:24.718-07:00

Well, we have already taught our last classes at the Nateete Orphan School. They are so resilient. They have lost their parents, one or both and many have parents that are too sick to get up anymore. HIV or any other illness that they can't afford to treat. Their uniforms are dirty and torn and they are wearing second hand shoes from Glenmore Elementary.Their smiles are so beautiful I start doing

Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04221331809852833064noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-11379068247652890512010-07-13T11:24:00.000-07:002010-07-13T11:26:20.019-07:00

Niteo Africa partners with Ugandans to invest in the reading culture of Uganda through a safe and community based literacy centre full of computers, books, and educational resources.On Sunday, July 18 from 2-5pm, Niteo will host and Open House at the Eva Ruf Resource Centre in Ntinda up from the Red Cross. The community at large is invited to come and freely discover the centre and the programs

Karine Liegmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12001699403921917087noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-2581641613172087082010-07-13T09:19:00.000-07:002010-07-13T10:16:56.003-07:00

I am sitting at the Eva Ruf Center in Kampala, Uganda. I am stunned half the time I am here. Maybe more than half. The Niteo Africa organization has partnered with many needy institutions in and around Kampala - but it is a level of need that is beyond my experience. From what I am learning, at least at the places we have been to such as the Nateete Orphan School called Living Hope and the Sanyu

Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04221331809852833064noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-90120544337491881572010-07-12T17:24:00.000-07:002010-07-12T17:28:04.484-07:00

Karine and Erika have asked that I post this, a copy of an email sent earlier, to reassure friends, family and followers of Niteo.(cd.mazurat)As you may or may not be aware, last night saw two bombs go off in the centre of Kampala, Uganda. Reports are conflicting but there are estimates of between 20 and 40 dead. Both bombs occured as crowds gathered to watch the World Cup Finale. When I

c.darren mazurathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14830806219971380186noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-84203926956353020192010-07-12T09:18:00.000-07:002010-07-12T10:13:37.560-07:00

Africa is amazing. There are many words you could use to describe it, such as incredible, life changing... but I say its amazing.We got on the plane to London in good spirits. Yay! were going to AFRICA!!!, by the end of that plane ride... not so much. I hadn't slept the whole time. As we landed I fell asleep. Then they had problems waking me up. We then had 9 hours in the London airport to shop.

Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04221331809852833064noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-18132735232885353912010-07-12T09:16:00.000-07:002010-07-12T10:17:23.358-07:00

Africa is incredible!The worst thing so far has been the 33 hour plane ride. I'm titling this trip the love trip because everyone is in LOVE with everything. On the way in we loved the trees and the colorfulness and the smokey smell and everything in between.The first day we got here our driver, John, didn't press the brake at all. There are no speed limits and no stop signs and no LIGHTS!!! The

Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04221331809852833064noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-35990970388083381352010-07-10T20:21:00.000-07:002010-07-10T20:24:14.110-07:00

The question is not: Are you a global citizen but rather: What type of global citizen are you?This was one of the statements that really hit me at the UN conference I attended in April. It’s true that we are all now global citizens because of media, Internet and basic ease of travel. We know “everything” that is happening in the world around us at the click of a mouse button.But what type of

Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04221331809852833064noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-83772931217247632952010-07-10T11:10:00.000-07:002010-07-10T12:17:29.855-07:00

...where every child has a smile." Saturday at Kawanda...The students at Kawanda High School created a social and political commentary through their music, dance, and dramatic competition today! It was an inspiring cultural experience where children had a voice and expressed themselves with confidence.Some of the highlights included the performing arts expressions on the Rights of the Child and

Karine Liegmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12001699403921917087noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-3372919835455631762010-06-29T10:39:00.001-07:002010-06-29T10:39:47.934-07:00

I found him curled up in the corner of the double-sized walk-in closet in my bedroom. My 5-year old son, who even then was tall and slim for his age, with long lanky limbs, sat huddled and sobbing. When Daniel cries there aren’t tears, just heaves in his body, a scrunched up face, and flushed angry cheeks. My heart flooded with compassion and concern. Of course, I’m determined, with the

c.darren mazurathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14830806219971380186noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-23777442960420207742010-04-19T17:03:00.000-07:002010-04-19T17:14:46.101-07:00

We worry about our flights being delayed and the added costs. What about those who are losing their $90 a month income? - ErikaApril 19, 2010With Flights Grounded, Kenya’s Produce WiltsBy JEFFREY GETTLEMANNAIROBI, Kenya — When Kenneth Maundu, general manager for Sunripe produce exporters, first heard about a volcano erupting in Iceland, he was excited. “I thought, ‘Oh, wow, a volcano,’ ” he

Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04221331809852833064noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-50442738397387638132010-04-14T17:38:00.000-07:002010-04-14T17:50:02.015-07:00

Glenmore Elementary in partnership with figurative artist Chiara Costa have put together a fine opportunity for art collectors or anybody who wishes to help children in Uganda. Donate $20.00 (minimum) or more and you might get a beautiful artwork created by Costa.Please mail your contact information and donation (name, telephone number, address, e-mail address and amount donated) to 'Hope for the

Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04221331809852833064noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-49110864572611225442010-04-08T17:47:00.000-07:002010-04-08T17:57:32.231-07:00

I was reading Tricycle, the Buddhist review, and I came across a great article and a series of quotes about generosity and greed. Are these not the two opposing forces that are at the core of most of the world's woes?Generosity does not need to be monetary and in actual fact we have many examples of how money and stuff do not serve those who most need it.How are you generous? With your affection?

Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04221331809852833064noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-74267360377049231222010-03-26T09:48:00.000-07:002010-03-26T09:54:30.876-07:00

One million people face famine in Northern Uganda! The WFP is handing out food and Stanlake Samkange, WFP country director pleads that "Handing out food will not improve the underlying causes of food insecurity," which, Samkange said, include illiteracy levels especially among girls; poor access to basic health services; bad infrastructure and a narrow set of livelihood options.Niteo will be

Karine Liegmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12001699403921917087noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-42727417382479798452010-01-02T11:04:00.000-08:002010-01-02T11:08:38.893-08:00

We're having an information meeting this month. Karine and Erika will be there to answer questions and explain details.

c.darren mazurathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14830806219971380186noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-71991848564945709962009-09-02T15:20:00.000-07:002009-09-02T15:56:46.070-07:00

While we all went on the same trip together, the stories that stick in our minds are all different. You've already read Bree's story about Gloria. Here are three more stories from team members. These are the stories that are shared when we only have a few minutes to talk about our time in Uganda. Of course the stories become longer and more detailed when the listener has more time to listen!

Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04221331809852833064noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-34185912606167201452009-08-27T10:49:00.000-07:002009-08-27T11:27:45.902-07:00

Here we are, home a week already and back into the swing of western life. It's hard to imagine that after all the planning and fundraising, the trip is already a memory. But it is a wonderful memory to be cherished.I want to say a huge thank you to the team members that travelled to Uganda with Niteo this year. We were a great group that really bonded well and we spent so much time laughing

Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04221331809852833064noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-78919753172403888802009-08-20T18:35:00.000-07:002009-08-20T18:49:56.687-07:00

Yes, the whole team was getting down as Duncan and the Elohim Troupe put on a spectacular show of music, singing and dancing in the courtyard of the Eva Ruf Centre. The team arrived back from safari to find Karine's surprise: 24 vibrant, beautiful students who had traveled 60KM in ONE van to visit the centre and meet us. It was an honour to meet them and talk to these wonderful students who are

c.darren mazurathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14830806219971380186noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-29586186356058087322009-08-17T04:58:00.000-07:002009-08-17T05:11:09.887-07:00

These are the lessons we learned today while wandering through a beautiful ravine hunting chimps:Bring better shoes than you think you need.Wear washable, salt-resistant, urine-resistant, mud-resistant clothing.Take two or three handkerchiefs to wipe your sweating face with; one isn't enough and will simply be dirty and gross by the end.Double- or triple-dip with insect repellent.Do not approach

c.darren mazurathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14830806219971380186noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-52830500855128237602009-08-17T04:55:00.000-07:002009-08-17T05:01:00.241-07:00

We have slept in a tent in the bush of Uganda, we have trekked through the gorge searching for chimpanzees and this afternoon we are cruising on the channel to see water mammals. It has been a busy time! Also a very successful time as we have seen: elephants, waterbucks, kob, impala, antelope, buffalo, hyena, warthogs, vultures, hippos, bats, baboons, monkeys, chimpanzees, and three lions! Of

Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04221331809852833064noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-92068168736541889582009-08-14T19:32:00.000-07:002009-08-14T19:58:05.902-07:00

For the past week, as six of the team members head to Sanyu for their day, three of us, Corey, Kath and I, have remained at the center for the Teaching Together component of the project. Our intention was to have up to 20 teachers plus administrators come for workshops on Reading Power, a reading program developed by Adrienne Gear in Vancouver, on Monday and Tuesday, and then Math and Science

Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04221331809852833064noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-25616253093386831072009-08-14T10:23:00.000-07:002009-08-14T10:53:31.812-07:00

This is from Kath from First Lutheran Church using Erika's blog name.....We're all busy packing for our Safari tomorrow - work is done and now a little time out to play. Erika and I have enjoyed the week at the centre and its given me a chance to see how it operates on a daily basis. The centre is very well organized - Betty and her volunteer staff have kept all the books on shelves separated

Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04221331809852833064noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-84899679450720587772009-08-14T09:48:00.000-07:002009-08-14T09:48:29.159-07:00

c.darren mazurathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14830806219971380186noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-31349116253943330112009-08-14T09:27:00.001-07:002009-08-14T09:27:53.988-07:00

Linda discusses bottle brushes and baby bottle cleaning with a worker at Sanyu.

c.darren mazurathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14830806219971380186noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-85736734745881676582009-08-14T09:17:00.000-07:002009-08-14T09:17:33.459-07:00

I adore this image -- it's my favourite of the trip so far. Lauren in the baby class, hiding in the corner so I wouldn't find her (she's not fond of having her picture taken!). More photos from our last day at Sanyu to come.

c.darren mazurathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14830806219971380186noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-37099943921756247202009-08-14T05:52:00.000-07:002009-08-14T06:47:15.180-07:00

It's been a while since I've updated all of you about our day-to-day activities; sorry about that. The funny thing about being here is that everything is so immediate that it's hard to remember that there are people back home waiting for news.The week has been busy for both teams. Karine, Linda, Faye, Ecko, Lauren and Bree spent all week organizing, supporting, empowering and assisting at Sanyu.

c.darren mazurathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14830806219971380186noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-43816981921135288222009-08-13T06:57:00.000-07:002009-08-13T07:23:34.374-07:00

c.darren mazurathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14830806219971380186noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-78905621138160198882009-08-12T07:24:00.000-07:002009-08-12T07:36:29.591-07:00

I wanted to briefly outline the most AMAZING parts of our day at Sanyu! We came to invest in the staff at Sanyu, serving them and empowering them to provide the BEST for the children of Sanyu.1. Linda, our nurse, came to me last night and said all 6 babies who are being monitored for weight gain at Sanyu have lost weight. She looked at me and said, "I am concerned about the three smallest ones.

Karine Liegmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12001699403921917087noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-47992992359858941872009-08-10T10:32:00.000-07:002009-08-10T23:59:31.688-07:00

When I say that I am travelling to Africa, people are often quite quick to ask: "What can I give you to take?"What indeed?I don't want to arrive here with lots of things to give and continue to feed the idea that westerners are "wallets on legs" (an expression I read in a book called Africa by Richard Dowden). I experience this every day that I am here: "I need a sponsor for school." "Give me a

Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04221331809852833064noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-7224119637167259522009-08-10T09:38:00.000-07:002009-08-10T12:04:07.398-07:00

Much of the team spent an amazingly challenging and rewarding day at Sanyu. By all accounts it was a day of challenges and trials, but there was much laughter around the dinner table tonight too so all is not gloomy.

c.darren mazurathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14830806219971380186noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-22588515089829682662009-08-09T22:55:00.000-07:002009-08-09T23:09:14.705-07:00

More pics from the Welcome Home Orphanage in Jinja.

c.darren mazurathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14830806219971380186noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-36937887550728709392009-08-09T07:34:00.000-07:002009-08-09T07:50:25.776-07:00

Looking through my photos, it seems like the entire trip is about babies.Orphanages are certainly compelling visual symbols of what Niteo is about, but on Friday we joined together with our Ugandan partners to celebrate another facet of our mandate.Leaders of Distinction -- formerly known as Kids Helping Kids -- is a school based program serving secondary school students. Its goal is to empower

c.darren mazurathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14830806219971380186noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-47027633792581725702009-08-09T07:26:00.000-07:002009-08-09T07:34:04.787-07:00

the team prepares to embark on a journey.... on the Nile river .... in a tiny little boat. Needless to say (at least for those who know me), I wasn't in attendance.

c.darren mazurathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14830806219971380186noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-1404850778252938532009-08-08T11:18:00.000-07:002009-08-08T11:37:57.780-07:00

As I walked into the orphanage playground area the first little girl I saw came up to me and wrapped her arms around my legs. I bent down and told her how pretty she was and asked her name. All I received was a nod. She walked around with me a bit and I went off to visit some other children. Later, we were together again. As I held her I asked one of the mothers what her name was, they told

Karine Liegmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12001699403921917087noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-90506790787725461132009-08-08T11:12:00.000-07:002009-08-08T11:14:21.551-07:00

c.darren mazurathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14830806219971380186noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-72477067315531002402009-08-08T10:59:00.000-07:002009-08-08T11:06:03.561-07:00

c.darren mazurathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14830806219971380186noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-74254232972026689012009-08-07T10:55:00.000-07:002009-08-07T11:01:26.324-07:00

When I try to explain what I am doing when I come to Africa, I always shudder at the word “help”. I have struggled to find a way to express what I am doing. These people do not need my help and I am wrong in saying that I am coming to help. But yesterday, as we were returning from Nateete and Karine and I were talking about how Niteo could be involved with Living Hope, I found the word to say

Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04221331809852833064noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-66455776056053110192009-08-07T03:13:00.000-07:002009-08-07T10:50:48.920-07:00

c.darren mazurathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14830806219971380186noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-50923933671674340942009-08-06T22:37:00.000-07:002009-08-06T23:14:08.638-07:00

Outside, the tropical rain pours over the earth as the sun rises in oranges to escape behind the thick cloud. I am anxious to put my pen to paper and tell another story.One of the questions I have asked myself as I have traveled is “How has Africa taught me to love?” I love so differently now. I know it, but on so many levels it is unconscious and unexplored.I believe the babe that I met

Karine Liegmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12001699403921917087noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-12253023238513106222009-08-06T10:45:00.000-07:002009-08-07T01:30:50.395-07:00

Today was the most important day of our trip. If it all ended today and we had to go back home, we all agreed that we would have left Uganda happy.We traveled from our world to theirs. We traveled from consumption and affluence to subsistence and effluent.We went to Nateete Living Hope Orphan School, and it has quite literally changed our lives.No one who witnesses the joy and gratitude of the

c.darren mazurathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14830806219971380186noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-65564311843020134292009-08-05T23:46:00.000-07:002009-08-05T23:53:44.987-07:00

Kath reading "Russell The Sheep" to some students.

c.darren mazurathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14830806219971380186noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-15199792947287066162009-08-05T23:05:00.000-07:002009-08-05T23:16:21.421-07:00

As a team, over breakfast, we discussed the following quote from Paulo Freire, "True generosity lies in striving so that these hands--whether of individuals or entire peoples--need be extended less and less in supplication, so that more and more they become human hands which work and, in working, transform the world."What is generosity?Today we will visit the school Living Hope, where the

Karine Liegmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12001699403921917087noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-85003582459463890562009-08-05T22:55:00.000-07:002009-08-05T23:35:39.963-07:00

After a long and typically exhausting journey, we arrived safe and sound in Kampala. Most of the day was spent organizing the details of our life here. Erika and Corey went with our marvelous local contact Dennis to a money exchange bureau to trade USD for Ugandan Shillings.After a wonderful first meal of fried chicken, beans with vegetables and boiled rice, the team divided up all the suitcases

c.darren mazurathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14830806219971380186noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-20643317274820568762009-08-05T02:24:00.000-07:002009-08-05T02:29:04.295-07:00

After way too many airplane meals, we've arrived safe and sound in beautiful Kampala.Amazingly enough, no one lost a single piece of luggage -- which means that over 1000 pounds of donated material made it to the resource centre and is ready to be disbursed and utilized.The Eva Ruf looks great -- Betty has done a wonderful job. We're tired but excited and eager to continue on with our journey

c.darren mazurathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14830806219971380186noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-1364568332020758342009-08-02T17:57:00.000-07:002009-08-02T18:02:40.181-07:00

Dear Friends and Family,We would love to hear from you while we are gone!  Please feel free to text your thoughts and inspiration at +011 256 712 606 411.  The best time of day to text is right before you go to bed, in our morning. Please leave your name.  We may not be able to respond, but the messages will mean lots to us.Blessings,Karine

Karine Liegmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12001699403921917087noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-58179759329947511512009-08-02T17:33:00.000-07:002009-08-02T17:56:12.427-07:00

Dear Friends and Family,We are all anxiously getting ready to embark on the journey of a lifetime: our trip to Uganda, Africa! There are many emotions that we are experiencing as travelers.  We are misty to say goodbye to our loved ones.  We may be afraid for our own health and safety.  We are pressed to get the house cleaned, the pets cared for, the luggage packed and re-packed, and the final

Karine Liegmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12001699403921917087noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-39149580554464785162009-06-11T09:45:00.000-07:002009-06-11T12:25:29.560-07:00

Niteo was thrilled to receive a wonderful package of 32 (!!) books in the mail from Robert Munsch , legendary author of the 20+MILLION bestseller "Love You Forever" as well as more than 40 other books.We are honored to be the guardians of these lovely books until August, when we will entrust them to the hands and minds of students in Uganda.Thank you, Mr. Munsch, for your generosity and greatness

c.darren mazurathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14830806219971380186noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-13858117917412150942009-06-11T09:41:00.000-07:002009-06-11T09:44:35.310-07:00

I assigned some homework for our 2009 team just before our most recent meeting. I asked them to write a sentence, and then a solitary word, on the following theme: what does Niteo mean to me?The results have been smooshed into the wonderfully whimsical Wordle generator and the final product is shown at the right.I think it's wonderful.

c.darren mazurathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14830806219971380186noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-31493804847813483602009-06-04T09:13:00.000-07:002009-06-04T11:33:01.057-07:00

click on photo for much larger version (opens in new window)Here's the first of what promises to be many images of this year's team.

c.darren mazurathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14830806219971380186noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-45783443843291374732009-06-04T09:05:00.000-07:002009-06-04T09:13:16.046-07:00

Students at Glenmore Elementary, in partnership with the great people at Urban Systems Kelowna, took time out of a beautiful Sunday afternoon to hold a charity car wash with proceeds to benefit Niteo Kids' Bookmobile project.Led by teacher Doug Obst, the students set up an assembly line of wash, rinse and hand dry for cars, trucks, and dogs.There was also a table with Ugandan crafts and

c.darren mazurathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14830806219971380186noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-92123855134788334942009-05-29T14:59:00.000-07:002009-05-29T15:05:21.076-07:00

The 19th annual Fat Cat Children's Festival is coming soon!Last year we had a great booth set up by the indefatigable Marissa and this year she's back at it. Anyone who is interested in helping out is invited to email or contact us -- there are many two hour mini-shifts available. It's a fun time for all!

c.darren mazurathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14830806219971380186noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-59731110451996959292009-05-29T08:45:00.000-07:002009-05-29T09:17:33.124-07:00

Dare to Be is a local company that offers a fine selection of fair trade products from around the world. They are also actively involved in supporting charities and social initiatives.Chantelle and Katrina have generously come on board as fund-raisers and promoters for Niteo. They are participating in a Family Fun Night -- read more about it here -- and we encourage everyone in the community to

c.darren mazurathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14830806219971380186noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-47461412435692503682009-04-17T09:12:00.000-07:002009-04-17T09:41:48.475-07:00

What an amazing night it was!The students and staff at Glenmore Elementary put on two absolutely wonderful shows filled with incredibly talented young performers,beautiful costumes and props,and inspirational speakers!Both shows were well attended and very well received by the audiences.In total, Raise Your Voice raised over $11,000! All this money will go directly towards the purchase of a

c.darren mazurathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14830806219971380186noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-84735082441746841532009-04-16T10:06:00.000-07:002009-04-17T09:12:08.030-07:00

Elizabeth Devries, pictured left, organized a "Kid's Stuff" swap meet in Kamloops, B.C. on April 5th, 2009. People who had used clothing and toys for kids were able to exchange and/or buy things with other people. This is the third time she's organized a meeting; she plans one about every six months.The meet attracted over 300 people and had 50 rented tables. People went home with much needed

c.darren mazurathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14830806219971380186noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-29171454802415153982009-04-13T20:08:00.000-07:002009-04-13T20:19:48.297-07:00

miracles...this weekend, my friend and colleague described last summer and the work of the Niteo team as a "miracle."  It was.  Then, the way the children and their teachers responded to the books, resources, life they found at the ERRC...it was again miraculous! I agree all of Niteo's projects are touched by the wondrous, the mysterious, the miraculous... Then I dig deeper, mine further, try to

Karine Liegmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12001699403921917087noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-58701227083311619992009-04-09T16:46:00.000-07:002009-04-09T16:59:49.625-07:00

Visit our homepage, www.niteoafrica.org, and click on the multimedia tab to listen to an amazing song."In My Dream" is a wonderful song written for Niteo Kids by Madi Kloss, a 1o-year old grade 5 student. She wrote and performed it over spring break. It will be a featured part of the Raise Your Voice concert on April 14th.Please spread the word about this incredible song and the incredible young

c.darren mazurathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14830806219971380186noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-25786841797385725332009-04-06T11:27:00.000-07:002009-04-06T11:42:41.286-07:00

These twins visit the centre everyday and are seen engaged in early literacy reading and activities! HURRAY!

Karine Liegmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12001699403921917087noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-56019501607606384482009-04-06T11:21:00.001-07:002009-04-06T11:25:48.915-07:00

Meet Grace and her four beauties by Betty Grace Ampumuza is a mother of three and a guardian of four children. She is 29 yrs old and a survivor of the 1994 Rwanda genocide. Her husband died from cholera in Nakivale refugee camp in western Uganda where they lived for five years after the genocide. She talks about her

Karine Liegmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12001699403921917087noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-91596920610972048232009-03-11T19:49:00.000-07:002009-03-11T20:53:10.363-07:00

On March 4th, grade four students at Glenmore Elementary in Kelowna held a Used Toy Sale with proceeds to several charities -- including Niteo.The toys, most of which were donated by students at the school, were sold for $1 each. Some "big ticket" items -- including a three-foot tall stuffed pug -- were raffled off with tickets selling for two for $1. The sale lasted from 9am to 4pm and while

c.darren mazurathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14830806219971380186noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-29592087129478558472009-03-07T12:37:00.000-08:002009-03-07T12:53:15.821-08:00

It's an exciting time for us. This weekend our team leaders will gather in a secret location (okay, it's my kitchen) to look over the applications for this years' team.We are buoyed and excited by the interest we have received in this project.We humbly thank all of the people who have offered to come to Uganda this year and make a difference in the lives of children and adults alike.We also

c.darren mazurathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14830806219971380186noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-35129747600574823512009-02-28T12:42:00.001-08:002009-02-28T14:22:38.211-08:00

As I have experienced Africa, I have been changed...continue to change.  Richard Rohr provides a helpful image when he defines critical incidents in an individual's life as liminal space.  He says, "liminal space induces a type of inner crisis to help us make a needed transition.  In brief it should wake us up a bit.  That's what is meant by a liminal experience....A visit to another culture can

Karine Liegmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12001699403921917087noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-15902984024723406672009-02-26T23:50:00.000-08:002009-02-26T23:53:01.707-08:00

We've sent some information about Glenmore Elementary's fund-raising extravaganza to the local media -- hopefully you'll see it in the paper soon. Please keep talking it up with everyone! The more seats we fill, the better it will be the students in Uganda.

c.darren mazurathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14830806219971380186noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-30366283949421809792009-02-25T14:34:00.000-08:002009-02-25T14:44:59.105-08:00

We're really excited about this!The great staff and students at Glenmore Elementary School here in Kelowna have decided to help us raise more funds for our Niteo Kids initiative.They're holding two benefit concerts on April 14th at 6 and 7:30 p.m. at the Kelowna Community Theatre. Their goal is to raise $20 in donations for each seat -- for each show! -- and then put the proceeds towards the

c.darren mazurathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14830806219971380186noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-26315598135895325672009-02-25T10:00:00.000-08:002009-02-25T10:07:06.275-08:00

I recently designed a funky-looking Niteo-themed desktop. If you happened to go to the information session at the Kelowna Public Library on January 18th, you might have noticed it on the big ole' screen.Anyway, it's a great desktop and I have a very high-res version of it. I'd like to offer it as a download in return for a donation to Niteo. You choose the donation -- time, wisdom, goods,

c.darren mazurathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14830806219971380186noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-61772684756547853682009-01-18T21:05:00.000-08:002009-01-18T21:10:14.353-08:00

Getting to HOPE:  CommitmentUntil one is committed, there is hesitancy, the chance to draw back, always ineffectiveness, concerning all acts of initiative (and creation).  There is one elementary truth the ignorance of which kills countless ideas and splendid plans:  the the moment one definitely commits oneself, then Providence moves too.  All sorts of things occur to help one that would never

Karine Liegmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12001699403921917087noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-32797448507752441982009-01-18T20:39:00.000-08:002009-01-18T20:46:58.437-08:00

Karine Liegmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12001699403921917087noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-21404045341049988992009-01-11T16:51:00.001-08:002009-01-11T17:48:36.917-08:00

Sanyu Babies' Home is an orphanage for babies and toddlers under three years' age in Kampala, Uganda. It is Kampala's oldest "baby orphanage" and is home to 44 children.Niteo volunteers visited Sanyu in 2008 and it was a profoundly moving experience for all.Niteo and a generous private donor contributed money to fund additional staff at the orphanage. Five young women from King's Daughters, a

c.darren mazurathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14830806219971380186noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-81323897025130472382009-01-09T11:58:00.001-08:002009-01-09T12:11:03.271-08:00

(click on image to open larger in a new tab/window)Establishing Hope, Nourishing Minds.niteo -ere [Latin] to shine , glitter, be bright; to glow, be sleek, flourish.FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE JANUARY 09 2009VOLUNTEER INFORMATION MEETINGUganda 2009!Niteo is going back to Uganda in summer 2009, and now is the time to get involved. An information meeting will be held in the board room of the main branch

c.darren mazurathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14830806219971380186noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-17816759693289906262008-11-21T14:47:00.000-08:002008-11-21T17:13:06.052-08:00

Charlie and Linus discuss the true meaning of ChristmasNovember 21, 2008Organizers say it was a resounding success on all fronts."We played to two full houses for our dress rehearsals," says Erika van Oyen, SD23 teacher and Niteo Board of Directors member. "And with each rehearsal, we raised both awareness of the need for programs like ours in Uganda as well as money towards making those plans

c.darren mazurathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14830806219971380186noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-72053531829736619902008-08-01T07:09:00.000-07:002008-08-01T07:33:07.946-07:00

We pray for the children who laugh when they swing high and who beam with pride when they climb to the top of the monkey bars. We pray for the children who make dolls out of corncobs, bats out of tree limbs and pies in the mud. And we pray for those who watch soldiers march through their playgrounds and city streets. Who can't run down the street without risking their lives. Who are born in

Donna Strihanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-53366201234051637652008-07-26T07:37:00.000-07:002008-07-26T07:41:02.767-07:00

Donna Strihanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-52916605036119230182008-07-26T07:28:00.000-07:002008-07-26T07:34:02.906-07:00

Donna Strihanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-29301264507805337652008-07-26T07:20:00.000-07:002008-07-26T07:25:08.716-07:00

Donna Strihanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-9957164348238978752008-07-26T05:48:00.000-07:002008-07-26T06:17:33.351-07:00

Donna Strihanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-26704517882791747932008-07-26T05:13:00.000-07:002008-07-26T05:19:43.813-07:00

Donna Strihanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-19347055511729691092008-07-26T05:08:00.000-07:002008-07-26T05:23:56.696-07:00

Donna Strihanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-85925549171854688012008-07-26T04:57:00.000-07:002008-07-26T05:07:55.773-07:00

Donna Strihanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-17510221763369191002008-07-26T04:51:00.000-07:002008-07-26T04:57:34.399-07:00

Donna Strihanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-39148277080734236702008-07-26T04:37:00.000-07:002008-07-26T07:17:53.505-07:00

Donna Strihanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-43871744336343345442008-07-26T04:25:00.000-07:002008-07-26T04:33:01.916-07:00

Donna Strihanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-71483094516270934652008-07-26T04:09:00.000-07:002008-07-26T04:22:53.457-07:00

Donna Strihanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-68491570729538901572008-07-26T03:54:00.000-07:002008-07-26T04:09:36.183-07:00

Donna Strihanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-6043837958664570982008-07-26T03:45:00.001-07:002008-07-26T03:52:13.322-07:00

Donna Strihanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-5966422018967532512008-07-25T23:34:00.000-07:002008-07-26T00:47:55.417-07:00

Donna Strihanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-48106475473101821312008-07-25T23:29:00.002-07:002008-07-25T23:34:43.761-07:00

Donna Strihanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-13076979610038612362008-07-25T23:29:00.001-07:002008-07-26T03:54:37.682-07:00

Donna Strihanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-49898587537235618322008-07-25T23:22:00.000-07:002008-07-25T23:29:18.793-07:00

Donna Strihanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-77548558770792592862008-07-25T23:18:00.001-07:002008-07-25T23:22:42.070-07:00

Donna Strihanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-3608256676480723572008-07-25T23:14:00.000-07:002008-07-25T23:18:20.841-07:00

Donna Strihanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-75801539589627873832008-07-25T23:06:00.000-07:002008-07-25T23:12:24.924-07:00

Donna Strihanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-40442934458555864042008-07-25T23:01:00.000-07:002008-07-25T23:06:50.641-07:00

Donna Strihanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-15797170381313721962008-07-25T22:53:00.000-07:002008-07-25T23:00:46.740-07:00

Donna Strihanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-61613577386429160292008-07-25T18:23:00.000-07:002008-07-25T18:36:00.341-07:00

Donna Strihanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-28515405064031311442008-07-25T18:13:00.000-07:002008-07-25T18:20:06.404-07:00

Donna Strihanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-33800228689105872412008-07-25T18:10:00.000-07:002008-07-25T18:13:31.758-07:00

Donna Strihanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-3026683646539914792008-07-25T18:02:00.000-07:002008-07-25T18:09:19.563-07:00

Donna Strihanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2861525342387803300.post-9894646279657755532008-07-25T17:23:00.000-07:002008-07-25T18:01:13.188-07:00

Donna Strihanoreply@blogger.com3