We did it! Phase one is done. We raised the needed $5,000 in 30 days which will be matched by a private donor and we are nearly half way to our end goal of having enough to undertake a well construction project with solar power, or planting a tractor within a farming village, or outfitting rural schools with electricity and latrines. These are some of the many projects our partners at Empower Mali are carrying out as often as they are able with the help of partners and donors who provide what we have an abundance of in this wealthy nation, which is resources/money. However, a key element of success that EM employs is local buy in. They only build where there is a will and a desire to empower and be empowered. For example, a village would need to request the desired aid for purposes they line out according to their own community needs assessments, and then they must provide a portion of the funds, the land, the labor, whatever is required, in order for EM to step in. The result is long lasting growth of communities. Needles to say we are so excited for the opportunity to help them in their work. Phase two starts by taking this momentum and sitting down with as many local organizations as we can to get them committed to a fundraising goal of their own. If you would like to help with this phase, please let us know. We can have you make calls, schedule appointments, do research on various organizations in your areas, and liase for us and your own relevant contacts. Thank you to all who donated! I am compiling a list of donors to publish later (for those who give permission to be published that is). More updates coming soon, as well as some important ethical discussions relating to humanitarian aid. (fb)

Many have already reached out with commitments to help. Please add your name to the list, reach out, and help us meet our goal of $5,000 within thirty days! Help us raise money to benefit the Free Clinic of Pocatello Idaho, and the country of Mali. https://hopeforabetterworld.org/nope-leadership-not-dead-just-been-in-medical-school/ (fb)