Let me start off by thanking all those who have already shown an interest in helping out with both the scholarship fund and clorthing drive, I greatly appreciate it.
As many of you know, I was in Sierra Leone, West Africa this summer; my experience was such that I decided upon my return to start a scholarship fund to help indigent families send their children to school, and a clothing drive to help people back in Sierra Leone. Sierra Leone is currently recovering from an 11 year civil war. The war left thousands dead and ruined the country economy. More than half of Sierra Leone's population live on less than $1 a day. My experience not only gave me a greater appeciation for my life in the U.S, but it also motivated me to help those less fortunate than myself.
As a native Sierra Leonean and a citizen of the world, it breaks my heart to see so many people (including family members) suffer. I was fortunate and blessed to leave the country when I did; or else, I could have been in a similar situation that so many others now find themselves. I can't help people there by myself; so I ask for your help. With your help, I know we can help so many people better their lives, and it does not cost much at all. For example, the cost of a movie ticket, popcorn and drinks can send a child to school for a year in Sierra Leone. A donation of $30 can send a child to school for a year, and a donation of $50 can pay a child's tuition for a year, buy his/her books, stationery and uniforms.
For my law school colleagues and friends, I ask that you drop off any new or used clothing, shoes, books etc, n the box next to the 3L folders in the law school's lobby. If you will like to donate to the scholarship fund, please contact me at mch4434@fsu.edu, or 850-322-1305. I'm currently working on the necessary paperwork needed to start a charitable organization. I will update my blog on the progress of getting the necessary paperwork.
Donations are not limited to the items I mentioned. Please feel free to donate anything that can be of use to others. I know with everyone's help, we will be able to ship clothes, books, shoes, school stationery and other items to Sierra Leone by Christmas. I really look forward to your help in helping others that are so less fortunate than us. I thank you in advance for your help and I hope to hear from you soon. Please feel free to share this message and request with your family and friends.
None of us can change what happened in Sierra Leone, but we can all help the victims of Sierra Leone's civil war. I ask you to say a prayer for them and all those who have fallen victim to violence around the world.
On this site are pictures and stories of my stay in Sierra Leone. I hope you take the time to ready the stories and send me any comments/suggestions that you may have. I really hope and look forward to your help, and may God bless you and all your loved ones. Thank you all.
P.S: Also, please log onto www.internationaldove.com for more information on one of the charities I visited while in Sierra Leone.
Sincerely
Mo
