Intention

One of my favorite quotes from Mother Teresa is:

"IT IS NOT THE MAGNITUDE OF OUR ACTIONS BUT THE AMOUNT OF LOVE THAT IS PUT INTO THEM THAT MATTERS."  

I have been reminded of the power and truth behind this message throughout this project.  

One of the first donations I received was from a friend that had recently lost her home in the Santa Barbara fires and was looking for work--she donated because helping women and children is important to her.  I was astounded when she apologized that she could not donate more because the love and care with which she acted made her donation priceless.

Her actions, and those of many others who have reached out to help others in these tough economic times, constantly reaffirms the truth of Mother Teresa's words.   

My thanks to all,

Megan

Words of Wisdom

Yesterday, I received some words of wisdom from Alexander McCall Smith, the author of some of my favorite books-- the Ladies No. 1 Detective Agency book series. If you have ever read his books, you know he is splendidly funny on page as well as in person (though he was not doning his usual book-speaking attire---his kilt).

Although the Ladies No. 1 Detective series is set in the land of his childhood, Africa, McCall Smith noted that nothing truly bad ever happens to his main characters. With so many articles/books about the serious issues facing Africa, he explained that he wanted to focus on its beauties--the African people & culture, the sense of community, its children, and the natural wonder.

His wise words were a reminder that this project is not just about the hardships of African children--but about their joy, their families, their country, and perhaps most importantly, their hope!!!

Join me in celebrating the beauty of Afrika & its children.

sugiforkids.blogspot.com

sugi

Happy Earth Day!!

I can think of no better way to leave a legacy of peace and love on this Earth then helping all our little children grow and bloom!  This Earth Day, help a child in need:  www.sugiforkids.blogspot.com

Happy Earth Day!

Megan

$2000 mark passed--only $12,000 more to go!!

Today I received word that donations to my project have passed $2000.00! I can't properly express the gratitude I feel for the support and kindness that is behind each of those gifts!

With my donation of $6,000 for travel and organizational costs, that leaves just $12,000 more to go!!

What joy!
Megan

Easter update

Hi all!

I hope everyone had a great Easter with lots of candy, sunshine, & kids! I took a little break from my project but am back to work cooking up new fundraising ideas and events.

My first "event" literally involved cooking & work--I baked sweets and sold them at NVIDIA. In addition, I posted a request for donations on NVIDIA's intranet. That project raised about $350.

Lately, I have been reaching out to friends, family, and practically everyone else I have ever met. One of the best parts is that I am reconnecting with people and hearing about the causes and projects that are important to them.

I am currently working on a project to engage my local yoga studios--more info on that one to come.

Any ideas, suggestions and help are most welcome!

Thanks for all the support--only $18, 975 to go!
Megan

First Steps Off the Mat

As I take my first few steps "Off the Mat", perhaps I should explain how I decided to embark on this journey. I guess it began last year with a bit of soul-searching--asking myself: "What am I passionate about?" and "What breaks my heart?" Turns out the answers to these questions go hand-in-hand: children having the opportunity to reach their full potential. What pained me most was knowing that many never get a chance because they lack the basics needed to survive---clean water, food, and health.

After doing some research, I knew that I wanted to work with Sub-saharan African children because they had the least chance of any population of having these basic necessities. When Off the Mat announced that they would be working with orgs. to provide water, food, schools to these children, I knew that this project was for me!

sugi

Welcome!

Hi All!

I have embarked on a year-long service project to help kids affected by AIDS/HIV in Africa. See my webpage /blog--I will be updating it throughout the year with my latest progress and journey to Africa!

Megan (aka sugi)