TAKING ACTION TO POSITIVELY IMPACT THE LIVES OF STUDENTS GLOBALLY Last summer my friend, Gabi, told me about an amazing charity called Pack for A Purpose. (If you've followed previous posts you've read all about this incredible organization). I loved the idea of taking action to positively impact the lives of students globally, so beginning a book drive was the perfect idea. I would have never imagined in a million years that we'd collect 7,000 books and that I'd have the opportunity to actually visit the recipients of our donations. This trip to Jamaica has changed my life forever. It is so true that when you give, you receive so much more in return. On March 27th, 2018, my Mom and I headed for Ochos Rios Primary School to visit the students, teachers and staff where the books were donated. I had no idea what to expect and after our two hour drive from Montego Bay, we were immediately greeted with hundreds of smiles, joy, laughter, kindness, gratitude and friendship.
Upon arrival, I was confused at first because it seemed as though there was a huge party going on at the school. I thought to myself that if this is their typical daily recess, I was immediately moving to Jamaica to attend school there permanently. We were informed that the school was having its yearly community carnival fundraiser. How lucky that we were visiting on this day! It was a blast.
Three students had prepared a traditional African dance that they performed for us. It was incredibly beautiful and so much fun to watch. They even tried to teach me a few parts of the dance. You can check out these videos on our blog.
Ochos Rios Primary has about 1,500 students and only around 10 desk top computers for everyone to share. They are not only in great need of technology, but could use any basic school supplies such as books, pencils, pens, rulers, markers, play dough, you name it. If you'd like to make a donation, please contact me at pedis.n.passports@gmail.com. I will be continuing to send as many materials and supplies as possible and will certainly visit the school again the next time we are in Jamaica. They are very excited to have a brand new Special Education Department and can use any supplies you'd be willing to donate.
When I think of my own school district here in Naperville, I realize what a privilege it is to grow up with a great education. More importantly, it is everyone's humanitarian responsibility to give back as much as possible. While I certainly can't afford to buy laptops for all of the students in Jamaica, I can be an ambassador to the school and reach out as much as possible to bring forth awareness. I’m hoping perhaps local school districts here in our area will join me in my mission to change the lives of the students in Ochos Rios.
Thank you so much for all who have already donated! You've touched so many lives. Together we can spread happiness. ♥
ABOUT THE BLOGGERS Naperville mom and teacher, Kristen Kainrath and her teen daughter, Brooke, are a mother-daughter travel-blogging team who have always shared an incurable case of wanderlust. Their goal is to inspire girls to follow their passions and appreciate the diversity of our global community. Follow them on their journeys at www.pedisnpassports.com and watch for their monthly article inside Glancer Magazine in 2018.
