As I continued to keep my eyes peeled for any opportunities for gift giving this year I saw an online post from Mercy Corps for their “Mercy Kits.” Having previously provided PR to Mercy Corps I was well informed on these gifts and how they work. So I did some research on what my options are this year. I really believe in the work that Mercy Corps does around the world for poor communities and it’s inspiring and uplifting to get to pick the program that your money will be funding. So I found that I could restore a schoolhouse for $125. A little steep for myself, but if I could get my family to go in it with me it would only cost $25 each. I approached them with this idea and they were all on board. Wohoo!
Then, the next day I went home to visit my parents and they were asking about my donation to the families in Argentina from my Missions Trip. I told them that I was still donating some of my clothes and would go buy some additional items, likely first-aid kits. But then my dad asked, "What if I one-up your offer? What if we give $500 to the nuns?" I was completely surprised and so touched. So we started to discuss this idea. He asked how would they get the money, how would they use it, etc. But in my dad's mind - where the wheels where obviously turning much faster than mine - he put together: a need, security in knowing who would be spending the money, and knowing it would be spent where it was needed most. These were all the points I was arguing for the Mercy Kits. But he also put together what I had not - an emotional connection to this community.
I realized by my dad’s offer that my desire to help those less fortunate was inspiring others to help as well. I'm happy to say there will be a nice surprise Christmas gift to this special community! I just wish I could see their faces when they get it.
Here are some photos from my trip last year:
Dancing one afternoon - a typical past-time.
All boys love foosball.
Pretending to run a radio show.
Boys will be boys...
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