It's for the Girls!

Hey All!

I've been delaying/avoiding writing a post about celebrating my 2 years In Country (March 13!), mainly because I've been crazy busy with everything and the idea of taking time out to write a blog is just time I don't have. That being said, I am constantly realizing all of the things I want to share about life in Senegal and with the Peace Corps that I still haven't had a chance to (garage shopping experiences, Serere wrestling, the strange rodents recently moved into my hut, etc) and time is quickly running out.

The point of this post isn't for any of the above but to make a request on the behalf of other PCVs here regarding a project I was involved in last year, but for various reasons did not have the opportunity to get off the ground (the PCVs in charge had to COS and then the school year happened, etc) until this year. Unfortunately, I won't be around to help with the execution, but I wanted my blog readership (can I say that?) to know about something really cool that will be happening in my area this summer: a Girls' Leadership Camp!

If you remember back in November, I held a Girls' Leadership Day for local girls which was an amazing opportunity to gather girls from two local middle schools to get together, share their experiences, and celebrate being strong young women in Senegal. This camp will expand upon events like mine, including subjects such as health (including HIV/AIDS and STIs), the environment, and leadership skills. Plus fun. Lots of fun! Crafts, swimming, games, and all sorts of things that young Senegalese girls rarely get to do, all away from home for a week! This is an activity that I was really excited about, but unfortunately was not able to happen during my PC Service, but my neighbors Mary and Chris will be actively involved in.

Please read the message below from the PCVs organizing the camp and consider donating to this worthy cause. They are very close to the final goal, so every bit helps.

The Girls’ Leadership Camp for the regions of Fatick, Kaolack and Kaffrine will bring together 25 of the top middle-school aged girls to work together in heightening their independence, improving leadership skills and encouraging them to take active roles in their communities. Academically motivated girls who have a good repuation among their peers and teachers will have the opportunity to attend this week-long camp.

At the camp, there will be a range of activities including interactive sessions on topics such as personal health, potential careers, and the environment. Through the guest speakers, the girls will have the opportunity to learn from positive female role models in their community. Other activities such as arts and crafts, swimming lessons, skits, team-building and trust games will also be part of the camp curriculum.

Your contribution will help pay for transportation, lodging, food, and supplies for the activities. Donations are tax deductible and can be made online on the Peace Corps Website.

Any amount is appreciated!

Volunteers serving in other regions in Senegal have conducted camps similar to this one, experiencing great success. We hope to foster leadership skills in the younger generations and provided a positive environment for girls to develop as leaders of their communities.

If you are interested in donating, please go here

I know that the economy is bad (read: I'm coming back very soon with no job prospects...), but remember, "It's for the girls!"

And they deserve it more than anyone else I can think of.

Thanks :)