Soulfari Kenya - Journey for the Soul

Important Announcement from Soulfari Kenya Inc.

2009-08-25T12:21:00.002-05:00

Dear friend of Soulfari Kenya ,

We are writing you today with very important news so we ask you to take just a moment to read this letter with your full attention.

The founders and the board of directors at Soulfari Kenya Inc. have voluntarily and faithfully dedicated their personal time, money, energy, and resources to the mission of this organization for many years. Many of you have joined our efforts to fulfill the organization’s mission… to connect, educate, and empower Africans and Americans. We are very proud of the accomplishments that have taken place within this organization, including facilitating 8 volunteer trips to Kenya with more than 100 travelers, serving hundreds of children in the slum areas of Nairobi, inspiring a transformation of service provision for children with disabilities at the Missionaries of Charity home in Huruma, providing medical supplies, clothing, mattresses, and food for 50+ children at the Villa Teag orphanage in Dandora at a time of great need and tragedy, providing the gift of a personalized portrait for hundreds of Kenyan children that participated in the face.africa project, and a new and safe home upcountry for children who have nowhere else to go. With a voluntary staff and minimal administrative costs, your contributions have been steered directly towards funding efforts that improve the quality of life of the children that we have identified need our support.

We have built a strong foundation in Kenya and we believe we will always be invested there to some extent. However, we are in a season that poses great challenges for us. We have directors that need to concentrate personal resources on their own families, and we have a suffering economy that is challenging the survival of many not-for-profits. Soulfari Kenya has persisted and evolved despite many setbacks, however, the board of directors has determined that the time has come to officially dissolve the organization.

We will no longer be accepting tax-deductible donations and there are no volunteer trips scheduled. If you have been giving to Soulfari Kenya , we are very grateful for your support, and we will make sure that you receive a tax receipt for your givings in 2009. We invite you to continue extending your generosity in a way that benefits orphaned children in Kenya . The founders remain personally committed to financially supporting the children who are currently living at our property in western Kenya, and we are entrusting our sister, Florence Were, to apply those funds to their daily needs. Please let us know if you would like to help, but please be aware that your contributions will not be tax-deductible.

If you have innovative ideas, valuable networks, or just personal conviction, and you want to partner with Julius to serve children in Kenya, we encourage you to contact him directly.

Sincerely,
Soulfari Kenya Inc.
Founders and Board of Directors

To contact the Soulfari Kenya founders:

Julius Were- jwasal@yahoo.com
Sarah Were – sarahbwere@yahoo.com
Josie Mai– josie@josiemai.com

The vision unfolds in Western Kenya...

2009-03-20T16:02:00.003-05:00

Dear Friends,
This year has presented us with several opportunities of community service in a rural town in Western Kenya on the shores of Lake Victoria called Port Victoria. We have set forward ambitious community service programs addressing child education and literacy, protection of children at risk, community health, and micro-finance initiatives. We are aiming to invest in communities in this region to advance sustainable and self reliant programs that improve children’s quality of life and standard of living.
It is with great humility and gratitude that we express our sincere appreciation to each of you. Thank you for contributing your money, time, and suggestions towards our relocation campaign. Our immediate aim is to provide monthly academic scholarship funds to 20 orphaned children in the rural area needing extra support, and your generous contributions are making this happen. All of the children who are and will be receiving monthly tuition were orphaned after losing their parents to HIV/AIDS. The funds have also enabled us to continue with the construction of the new orphanage home that includes six bedrooms. We are working on installation of a 50,000 cubic liter septic tank to hold the sewage waste, indoor plumbing, kitchen appliances, and furniture. Your contributions have already allowed us to install electricity in the existing facility, put perimeter fencing poles in the five acre property, paint the rooms, construct beds, and create a tree planting nursery.
We are working on plans to construct a learning center for those children in the area who are between 3-5 years old or are older and have never attended school, including children with special needs. This center will also offer tutoring services for older children who attend school in the local areas. Our goal is to expand the property to also include four classrooms, a kitchen, restrooms, offices, library, and playground. The school will be designed to integrate students with a variety of needs in a positive atmosphere of learning that promotes self-confidence and self reliance. The learning center will also provide training and education for parents in the area who have children with disabilities including physical impairments, communication and behavior disorders, learning disabilities, and mental retardation. This will be the only school of its kind in western Kenya providing education that integrates children with and without disabilities.
We are also planning to establish a community health clinic that provides basic assessment, intervention, and education for critical medical issues such as malaria, malnutrition, HIV/AIDS, and other childhood illnesses. The clinic will be managed by local doctors and nurses in collaboration with international medical partners. We want to use the clinic to educate families and individuals on ways to prevent the infection of Malaria and reduce the spread of HIV/AIDS.
We have set goals that will enable us to promote micro-finance initiatives and job training for individuals and families. We want to compliment individuals’ efforts of becoming economically self reliant by connecting them with resources. The hope is to construct a facility that offers training and provides loans in computers, cooking and baking, clay brick making, tailoring, fishing, driving, poultry farming, and honey bee farming. All of these projects will utilize local resources, and be organized and managed by local communities.
We acknowledge and value what is meaningful to you as we continue to serve children in Kenya. Thank you for generously enabling us to serve children at risk in Kenya with a respectful, inclusive, and accountable approach.

Julius Were
Founder and International Director

Final Call for Summer Volunteers!

2009-02-17T09:04:00.017-06:00

If you have dreamed of going to Kenya and seeing smiles like these, consider joining us July 5-22, 2009 for a special trip!! We're recruiting travelers who want to partner with us as we move forward with opening our new children's home in rural Kenya. We still have a few spots available and are seeking those who will open their eyes, hearts, minds, hands and resources to us during this crucial time in our development. The trip will include time in Nairobi and at our new property in western Kenya and will end with a phenomenal safari at Masai Mara.

Deadline for application and deposit: March 15, 2009. Please email us immediately if you are interested participating.

2009-01-25T19:02:00.002-06:00

Soulfari Kenya is inspired by our new President, Barack Obama, and is encouraged that he has entered the White House with a pledge to address the unique needs of Africa, specifically Kenya.

"To the people of poor nations, we pledge to work alongside you to make your farms flourish and let clean waters flow; to nourish starved bodies and feed hungry minds. And to those nations like ours that enjoy relative plenty, we say we can no longer afford indifference to the suffering outside our borders, nor can we consume the world's resources without regard to effect. For the world has changed, and we must change with it."

Inaugural address Jan 20, 2009

"But for all the progress that has been made, we must surely acknowledge that neither Kenya nor the African continent have yet fulfilled their potential - that the hopefulness of the post-colonial era has been replaced by cynicism and sometimes despair, and that true freedom has not yet been won for those struggling to live on less than a few shillings a day, for those who have fallen prey to HIV/AIDS or malaria, to those ordinary citizens who continue to find themselves trapped in the crossfire of war or ethnic conflict."..."I believe that my country, and other nations, have an obligation and self-interest in being full partners with Kenya and with Africa."

Speech in Nairobi, Kenya

Aug 28, 2006

Soulfari Kenya is hopeful and committed. to positive change in Kenya.

announcing face.africa 2008-2009

2009-01-25T11:01:00.004-06:00

face.africa
2008-2009

The Creamery Arts Center www.springfieldarts.org
411 N Sherman Parkway
Downtown Springfield, Missouri
February 11-27th 2009
Opening Reception Friday, February 13th 6-8pm

30 young women from Carolina for Kirbera's Binti Pamoja program were matched with 30 emerging young emerging artists from the Missouri Fine Arts Academy. Binti Pamoja translates to “Daughters United” in Kiswahili, and provides a forum for young Kenyan women to discuss issues that concern them. The Missouri Fine Arts Academy provides a unique program of artistic, extracurricular, and social opportunities to Missouri’s talented high school students. This is the third annual cycle of the project. It has been shown at George A Spiva Center for the Arts in Joplin, Missouri Citizens for the Arts in Jefferson City, and the Leedy-Voulkos Art Center in Kansas City. The portraits here will be delivered to the young Kenyan women at a ceremony in Kibera,Kenya in July 2009.

Josie Mai is Assistant Professor of Art at Missouri Southern State University, Visual Arts Faculty at Missouri Fine Arts Academy, and the Director of Soulfari Kenya Inc, a non-profit engaged in humanitarian service in Kenya. She has an undergraduate degree from the University of Kansas in art education and a masters of fine arts degree from Parsons School of Design in New York City.

In Remembrance...

2009-01-23T23:18:00.007-06:00

It is hard to believe that a year has already passed since the death of our brother, Melitus Mugabe Were. With the anniversary of his death, January 29th, coming upon us, we stop to take time to reflect on his legacy. There is not a day that goes by that the Were family doesn't grieve the loss of Melitus, and also feel such utter disappointment at the lack of justice that followed his brutal murder. Melitus was a husband, a father, a brother, a leader, an advocate, a truth teller, a peacemaker, and a uniter. He loved his family, his friends, his community, his country, and the children he faithfully served in Dandora. We celebrate his life and we honor him as we continue his legacy of service and advocacy in the country he believed in, hoped for, and loved. His name will live on in our son, Jonah Melitus Were.

Our sweet Jonah

2009-01-23T23:11:00.002-06:00

Some Soulfari Kenya alumni have requested an updated photo of Jonah, so here it is. We look forward to the day that we take him to meet his family and all of the children we love there in Kenya. We are proud of his heritage, and we are excited that the year he was born, the man who became president has the same heritage as him: a father from Kenya and a mother from Kansas.

Soulfari Kenya in the News

2009-01-19T18:49:00.002-06:00

http://www.kansascity.com/115/story/988382.html

Co-founders, Julius and Sarah Were, were featured in today's issue of the Kansas City Star, on behalf of Soulfari Kenya. Check it out! We were honored to be included in the newspaper on Martin Luther King day and the day before Obama's inauguration; a day dedicated to service.

SFK Board Member releases his CD

2008-12-30T19:12:00.004-06:00

Soulfari Kenya Inc is proud to announce that board member, Antony Gitau Omondi, has accomplished his dream of releasing his first cd. Anyone who has met Antony knows his contagious energy, love for music, his love for God, his devotion to his country, and his ability to work a crowd. Congratulations Antony!!! Please go to his website to check out his video and touring schedule, and to find out how to order his cd, entitled, "You Can Make It, Now!" http://www.kamnao.com/index.php

Giving Thanks This Holiday Season

2008-12-12T23:45:00.008-06:00

Dear Soulfari Friends:

Happy Holidays! We would like to let you know about an exciting development at SFK.

As you may know our executive director spent time in Kenya in July, spending days in conversation with Florence Were (Julius's sister) and our lawyer Nyumbara Musyimi. SFK quickly realized the amazing leadership potential and skills of Florence. In addition, Florence and the Were family committed their family land upcountry to the development of a new children's home.

So once we looked into the legality of starting a new home beyond the corruption and unhealthy borders of Nairobi, it became clear that we had the makings of our vision birthed in Spring of 2008: our own children's home, created from the ground up, alongside our Kenyan family and partners. Now, in addition to our life-transforming short-term trips, we had the basic ingredients for long-term transformation in the country we love, in the context of our unchanging mission statement: that we are a creative, hands-on service opportunity designed to connect, educate, and empower Kenyans and Americans.

All we needed was a lump sum to get us started…and miraculously, we got it just a couple of weeks ago! We received a several-thousand dollar donation from a Soulfari trip alumnus who has seen Kenya with us, who has looked those beautiful kids in the face. He gets it. He wants us to start. And now we will.

This donation will get Julius to Kenya in January, to get the property functioning and ready for Florence, a few staff members, and just a couple of kids. There is no shortage of actual orphans in the area of the home, and we know if we build it, they will come. The donation will pay the staff for a few months, and will get basic bedding, furniture, and food.

We invite you to consider sharing our development with family, friends, networks and communities on the States side. We are specifically looking for monthly contributions, whatever people can afford. Ideally, we want to sponsor each child for $50/month and each staff member for $100/month. In addition, there will be eventual building fund opportunities as well as future service trips, volunteering on the property itself and working with the children and staff directly. Sponsorship can begin immediately. As soon as the first few kids and staff are moved in January, they will need sponsorship. And there will be many more children to come.

Doctor Day in Dandora

2008-09-15T08:24:00.002-05:00

Reflecting back on the trip in July, I must say that the coordination of Project Doctor Day went off without a hitch. It was planned and executed fearlessly by Amy Frazer and funded by Nike. Amy started negotiations upon arrival with Salim, the director (and dear friend) of Carolinas for Kibera. It was he that suggested we utilize their medical staff as volunteers. So Amy met a few times to coordinate several factors, including transportation, snacks, obtaining medication, a way to document the exams, and how to thank the doctors for their time and talent.

The day was just plain rewarding. Amy and I picked up Salim and the boxes of drugs and various medical equipment, including a scale. We drove to meet the doctors, nurses, and pharmacist downtown. Turns out we had so many volunteers, we had to coordinate another taxi. Gloria Muthoka also met us to come lend a hand. She is a good friend and is involved in the vision for Soulfari.

When we got to Villa Teag, the children sang welcome songs and everyone could just sense it was a big, momentous day. Then the team got to work. In the space of one "room", they set up a sign-up table, a triage area (weight, temp, etc), and a few private spaces for the doctors to exam each child. After the exam, the children were given a piece of candy. If they needed medication, they took the script across the room to the pharmacist, where they were shown the meds that would be administered by an adult later. It was the most efficient and professional event I have ever witnessed in Kenya. It was fantastic. The doctors reported that most of the ailments were things like colds, worms, and lice. A few had athlete's foot due to damp conditions in the building. They were not malnourished due to Florence's brilliant resourceful management skills. One boy we knew had a pre-existing condition of sickle-cell. He has severe episodes of pain, and has been visiting the hospital occasionally. His name is Ibrahim, and he bonded with one of the nurses so much so that she didn't want to leave him there.

After many hugs and goodbyes, we headed back downtown where Amy and I treated Salim and the team of volunteers to a modest lunch at Fedha Towers cafe. It was time to be thankful and recap the day. What is remarkable is that none of these Kenyan (and one Canadian) staff had been to Dandora. Ever. Just the fact that a team from one slum went to volunteer in another slum is quite remarkable. As director of CFK, Salim was encouraged that his group was able to help another. This is what non-profit partnership is all about. CFK and SFK were proud that day, and hopeful for the children of Kenya.

Josie

Post Trip Update from SFK Executive Director

2008-07-29T20:42:00.008-05:00

Josie and Florence Were at the family home upcountry.

Update on Medical Exams for the Children

2008-07-16T11:41:00.003-05:00

There is no doubt that Josie and Amy had a rough start to their time in Kenya this month, however, they are both incredibly dedicated to SFK’s vision. They have pressed on.

This Saturday, they have arranged for basic medical exams for the children. About 4-5 Clinical Officers/Nurses will be transported to VT to complete the exams. Children will be registered and their health assessed. Access to pharmacy medications and, if needed, hospital visits will be available. In addition, SFK will provide notebooks and pens to document the examinations and these will be kept with Florence at VT for each child’s record.

SFK is fortunate to have received generous donations from Nike (thanks to Amy’s hard work) and also from several members of our supportive community of donors and past travelers. Of course, there is still a great need for donations to cover the cost of medications for the children who are recommended to have a course of treatment and for basic needs such as appropriate clothing and food.

SFK is also depending on our local partners to assist in coordinating the registration of the children and ensuring a safe and efficient environment for the exams.

As always, thank you for your continued interest in SFK and for your support.

Thank you Amy Frazer!

2008-07-11T16:39:00.002-05:00

I just want to take a moment to recognize one of Soulfari Kenya's most active, dedicated, and creative supporters. Amy Frazer came to Kenya with us in 2006 and voluntarily returned to Kenya this month with Josie, our executive director. I don't think there has been a day in the the last two years that Amy did not think about the children we served in Kenya and what she could do to improve their lives. Amy has done numerous things to raise money to support projects at Villa Teag and Carolina's for Kibera, including getting sponsors for her marathons, designing and selling calendars, writing purposals at Nike where she is employed, and selling cloth ornaments that she designed. Amy is gifted, selfless, intelligent, and she has an incredibly compassionate heart. Soulfari Kenya is blessed to have her on board! I sing Amy's praises because she is very deserving, but also because she has experienced great hardship since arriving in Kenya, and I believe she could use our encouragement. Amy was robbed of her laptop, credit cards, and cash her second day in Nairobi, and since then she has also been feeling ill. For those of you who know Amy, or even those of who don't but who are grateful for her, I encourage you to post an encouraging comment for her to read while she is in Kenya. We love you, Amy. Thank you for everything you do for Soulfari Kenya, but especially everything you do for the children of Dandora and Kibera! Press on, friend, and do not be discouraged.

Update from Josie - July 10, 2008

2008-07-10T23:30:00.003-05:00

Florence, Julius’s elder sister, and I spent time at Villa Teag. I was there for a few hours, and learned lots. The kids look wonderful. They seem happy, and I knew most of their names. Soon after I arrived, Alexandra and Mondo Azzuro showed up with treats for the kids. They are an NGO based in Italy who has financially supported VT for a few years. They knew Melitus well. We had dinner with them tonight with the purpose of trying to establish some kind of working relationship and determine what Soulfari's involvement will be in supporting Villa Teag. Alexandra, who hosted the dinner at her home, is a lovely woman who has been living in Kenya since 2006, working alongside Villa Teag, and she is sponsored by Mondo Azzuro. We met her in 2006 at Villa Teag when she was shooting a documentary on the dump in Dandora.

It is evident that Mondo Azzuro is in it for the long haul and that we have similar vision: stabilize with new management, move the children somewhere safer, build a residence for visitors, and do job training for the older kids. They love the children, want continued involvement, demand accountability, and seem excited to work with Soulfari. The dialogue will continue.

We had a meeting with Caroline, director of Binti Pamoja, in the morning to discuss a portrait ceremony and interviewing of new girls for face.africa. On Saturday Amy and I will be in Kibera all day for a girl's soccer tournament. Many of the Binti girls will be there watching or playing, and Auma Obama will be there, too.

I have also been taking the time to share meals with other friends and partners of Soulfari Kenya, including Gloria Muthoka and James Mutisya.

I am OK and healthy physically, but my head and heart are very heavy. I am trying to best to stay focused. Please pray.

Josie's Arrival in Nairobi

2008-07-05T17:18:00.005-05:00

**Throughout July we will be posting news from Josie's time in Kenya caring for the kids, assessing the needs, and figuring out what is next. We encourage you to keep up with us! If you are feeling lost already, get caught up here.

July 5, 2008

Here I am, sitting in the Internet cafe downstairs by Java. Once I got out of KC on another airline (original flight delayed several hours), I made all of my other connections with barely a moment to spare in any airport. I had to run through Ohare to catch my connection to London. It all went very smoothly, the passport line was short in the Jomo Kenyatta airport, and my bag was quickly off the line. Marcus sent 'Smiley' to pick me up. Also in the van was a young woman from the UK who jabbered like she hadn't talked to anyone in YEARS. I couldn't get a word in. She's a tour leader, and she should be. I got dropped at Kolping quickly thank goodness. It rained before I got here. It smells better than the dust and pollution. Hard to avoid giant puddles, though.

I slept hard and well. So far, I am a firm believer in No-jet-lag. A homeopathic med that was highly recommended by that great little travel business in old overland park. I woke up after exactly 8 hours of sleep and I feel GREAT. I hadn't even slept on any of the flights. I am stunned. I remember spending a few days just OUT of it here. We'll see how I hold up. Helen and Pamela will both be at Kolping tomorrow. Can't wait to see them. Having lunch with Florence in a couple hours.

Just shopped at Nakumatt and got a reasonable cell phone and minutes. Also got water, wine, and salty snacks. Need to go get my malaria meds soon. Picking up Amy very early in the morning at the airport. Walking onto Ngong Road after shopping, I had to merge with hundreds of Kenyans doing some walk. They were all wearing these beautiful turquoise shirts, sponsored by Barclays. I guess they were raising some funds for their communities.I had never seen that before.

This is want I want. Lots of little and some big wonderful surprises. I want to enjoy being here. I want to enjoy family and friends and the quiet of Kolping. This will happen.

Our little Kenyan-American

2008-07-05T11:54:00.003-05:00

Thank you to all of those in the Soulfari Kenya family who sent us messages of congratulations. Jonah is growing rapidly and he is already 8 weeks old weighing over 12 1/2 pounds. He is pictured here wearing the perfect onesie for him, which was given to him by SFK board member, Jodi Heltenberg. Thanks Jodi!

SFK update

2008-06-30T19:06:00.007-05:00

We apologize for our long absence. Life has been busy and more updates will follow.

We wanted to let everyone know about an important trip taking place in July... SFK Executive Director Josie Mai along with SFK supporter and former traveler Amy Frazer are heading to Kenya!

Many projects are in store including trying to get the Villa Teag children medical exams. Amy has been working to create a "Fun Raiser" to help fund the cost of these exams. (Thanks, Amy!)

If you would like to support SFK in meeting the needs of the Villa Teag children, please visit our official website for information on how to donate.

Meet SFK's Newest Family Member...

2008-05-10T09:01:00.005-05:00

Jonah Melitus Were

Born on May 8, 2008 at 11:20pm
C-section
Weight: 9 lbs. 10 oz.
Length: 20 inches
Shawnee Mission Medical Center

Villa Teag on NPR

2008-05-02T22:20:00.002-05:00

Earlier this week NPR aired a story on the children of Villa Teag. Many of you may already know that this children's home in Dandora is one of the sites SFK has taken travelers to on previous trips. The home was started several years ago by Julius' late brother, Melitus.

This story gives great insight into what life is like for the children right now. You can listen by clicking here.

Come to the Crossroads, Kansas City!

2008-04-20T21:25:00.009-05:00

Share in celebrating face.africa 2007-2008's last exhibit before going to Kenya.

Show opens on First Friday May 2nd, 7-9pm at the OpieGallery of the Leedy-Voulkos Art Center at 2012 Baltimore in Kansas City, Missouri.

Gallery talk with Josie on Saturday May 3rd, 1pm same location.

Catalogs will be for sale, cash or check...Or buy it online.

New KC Star Article

2008-04-19T22:49:00.004-05:00

SFK's latest endeavor made the front page of the KC Star today. Link to the story here. We appreciate the awareness this has brought to the community here in Kansas City .

If you were impacted by this and would like to make a donation, please visit our official website or you can send a check made payable to Soulfari Kenya to PO Box 2321 Shawnee Mission, KS 66201.

If you would like to be added to our mailing list or would simply like more information on our organization, please feel free to email us.

Thank you!

2008-03-09T14:45:00.002-05:00

Julius has arrived home, safe and sound, and as you can imagine, Sarah is really happy! Thank you to all of those who have been so supportive these past 5 weeks. There is still a lot to be done on the Kenyan end, and we are in the process of figuring all of that out. We'll keep you posted on developments. Continue to keep Julius and his family in your prayers as they are still feeling immense grief from their loss.

Julius is coming home

2008-02-28T10:42:00.002-06:00

Julius will be arriving back in the U.S. on Friday, March 7th. In this last week, he will be with his family and he will continue to work with our volunteer sites to ensure that they have their basic needs met. Soulfari Kenya funds have been used to purchase food for the children and staff. If you would like to welcome him home, feel free to post a comment, or email him at julius@soulfarikenya.com

Odinga and Kibaki Agree to Share Power

2008-02-28T10:35:00.002-06:00

After more than one month of intervention from UN Mediator Kofi Annan, the two Kenyan leaders have finally reached a compromise. Today they signed a power sharing deal that unites members of the ruling party (PNU) and the opposition party (ODM) in a coalition government. Kibaki will maintain the position of President while Odinga will become the Prime Minister. The deal also includes a full review of the constitution, a 45-year-old document which many Kenyans have pushed to change since the 1990s because it gives the president nearly total authority over the affairs of state. We at Soulfari Kenya are encouraged by this news and we continue to hope and pray that this will unite Kenyans and promote peace across the nation.

2008 Summer Trip Postponed

2008-02-25T09:08:00.001-06:00

We were so excited that 10 amazing people chose to commit 3 weeks of their summer to travelling to Kenya with our organization this summer. All of those travelers were ready to share their unique passions, gifts and talents in Kenya, and they were especially ready to be touched by what the Kenyan community had to offer to enrich their lives. It has always been important to Soulfari Kenya to offer our travelers a safe and positive experience. As we have previously communicated, Kenya has been faced with some very difficult challenges in recent months due to political unrest and social instability, and we feel that these conflicts could compromise the quality of the trip. In addition, we want to be sensitive to our Kenyan partners at our volunteer sites in Huruma and Dandora as their priorities right now are meeting the needs of the local community rather than focusing on protecting and accommodating visitors. We feel that we can be more helpful in the rebuilding of those communities when there is peace and stability. Therefore, we have decided to postpone our 2008 trip to July of 2009.

In the meantime, the staff of Soulfari Kenya is focused on reaching out to our Kenyan partners, especially the children and staff at the Villa Teag Children's Home. With the loss of their owner and director, Melitus Were, they are in a very difficult transition. Soulfari Kenya would like to thank Jodi Heltenberg and the community of Yuma, Colorado for their generous donations that totaled $1500, as that money is being immediately used to purchase food for the children and also to provide needed compensation for the staff and teachers so they can sufficiently provide for their own families.

We will continue to update you on the status of our partner organizations and their specific needs. Donations are always appreciated and will be used wisely.

New Kansas City Star Article

2008-02-23T11:32:00.003-06:00

The Weres were in the news again today in Kansas City. Before Julius left for Kenya last month this article ran as a front page story. Today, the KC Star had an important follow up article containing an update on the conflict in Kenya and its effect on the Were family. Julius was able to contribute to the article when the reporter phoned him in Kenya. You can read the article here, or, if you're in KC and want to pick up the paper, the story is on page A-2.

Support from SFK Partners in Kenya

2008-02-20T20:53:00.005-06:00

From the SFK family in the USA to our SFK partners in Kenya... Asante. You have been a tremendous support to us as we grieve the loss of our brother. Thank you for the encouragement, friendship, and love you continue to show us.

*Thanks to Marcus and Great Horizon Trails for sharing this photo of him with Julius on the day of the funeral.

Our brother has been laid to rest

2008-02-16T11:05:00.003-06:00

Our brother, Melitus Mugabe Were, was laid to rest today at the family’s home in Port Victoria, Western Kenya. He was buried on the same land as their beloved mother, Teresia Agalo. Thousands of mourners came to the funeral, including many family members, staff and children from the Villa Teag Children’s Home, members of parliament, and Raila Odinga and his wife. Although the funeral was politically charged, all were able to mourn in peace as there was no threat to anyone’s safety at the day-long event. I spoke with Julius and our sister, Juliana, at 10:00am our time (6:00pm their time) as the funeral was wrapping up. They sounded exhausted but emotionally strong.

Unfortunately, at this point, there have been no significant findings in the investigation of Melitus’s murder. We find this discouraging, however we try to focus on celebrating the life he lived rather than focusing on his tragic and horrific death.

Thank you to all of those who are praying for our family and friends in Kenya.

The following video is from Thursday's memorial mass in Nairobi. Julius, our sister Juliana, our brother Vincent, our friend Marcus, and some of the children at Villa Teag are in the video clip.

Reminder: Face.Africa Exhibit in Missouri's Capitol

2008-02-12T13:22:00.003-06:00

Tomorrow, on Wednesday February 13, 2008 the 2007-2008 face.africa project moves to Jefferson City, MO for a one day exhibit. We are honored to have been invited to be a part of Missouri Citizens For the Arts Day. This is a well known legislation day for Arts Advocacy in the state of Missouri.

To learn more about the face.africa project please visit SFK's Official Website and click on Soulfari Arts. Beautiful full-color books feature the portraits from both 2006-2007 and 2007-2008 projects and are available for purchase by visiting the Lulu Marketplace or linking directly to each book from the "Soulfari Kenya Products" section on the side-bar of this blog.

2/17/08 UPDATE:

Photos from the face.africa exhibit at the Capitol

SFK Founder Josie Mai in the News

2008-02-12T13:12:00.003-06:00

As an organization we continue to be humbled by the support we receive as we try to share our love of Kenya and the impact the conflict there has on us personally. Thank you.

SFK Founder and Executive Director, Josie Mai, was invited to share her story in the Joplin Globe. Please see the story by clicking here.

Video from the interview with Josie can be viewed here:

Update on Julius 2.9.08

2008-02-09T12:17:00.000-06:00

Julius has now been gone a week and half, and we sure do miss him around here. We talk on the phone twice per day, which is good for my soul. He sounds strong, as always, but I know it must feel like he has the weight of the world on his shoulders. He and his family are safe and are continuing to trudge through the details of funeral arrangements. The funeral will take place at their upcountry home in Busia on February 16th. Melitus will be buried on the same land as their beloved mother, Teresia Agalo. His sister, Juliana, arrived in Nairobi from Tanzania, his brother, Vincent, is on the way from Italy, and his Uncle Mark and Melitus's wife, Maria, is arriving there as well. Julius has been spending most of his time upcountry preparing the land and the community there for the funeral. Back in Nairobi, it seems that there has been minimal investigation into Melitus's murder, which is extremely discouraging for the family. At this point, we do not have a report on the state of the Villa Teag Children's Home in Dandora but we will let you all know as soon as we know anything, as we know that many of you are concerned about the children and teachers there. There are many logistics that Julius's family is having to work through right now so they are just having to take it one day at a time, while also trying to work through their grief. I was so encouraged to receive an email from our dear friend and business partner in Kenya, Marcus Orao of Great Horizon Trails, who said this about Julius, "Joolee is a very good and responsible person. I wish you were in Kenya to see how the man is coordinating things here, you can not believe it." I bet I would believe it because I know the man I married and I know he is amazing.

Thank you again to all of those in our immediate and extended community who have prayed for us, sent us cards of sympathy and encouragement, given donations, inquired about our wellbeing, visited our home, and sent emails. We know you are with us. The good news on the KC homefront is that Baby Were is growing strong inside mama's belly and is now 6 months along and over two pounds. I think baby is going to be a soccer player like daddy because he or she has a strong kick already.

A message for our Kenyan friends

2008-02-04T22:07:00.000-06:00

(I wrote the following email with specific people in mind, but I post it here in the case that other Kenyans would drop by this blog and find encouragement in these words.)

To my dear Kenyan friends,
Greetings and peace to each of you. I know that email is one of your last priorities right now but I still wanted to leave you a message of love that you could read at any point and be encouraged and strengthened by. I spend many nights lying awake thinking about the state of Kenya, this country I have grown to love, and I specifically think about and pray for each one of you by name. The divisive politics, the extreme tribal affiliations, the senseless violence, and the continual chaos is not the Kenya I know, and it is not the Kenya that is represented in each one of you. Every single one of you have blessed my life and have taught me about the beauty of Kenyan culture, the value of diversity, the strength of the human spirit, and the power of true friendship. I stand beside you through this time of chaos and confusion, and I hold each of you up as leaders in your communities because you have the character, the strength, the vision, the resilience, and the belief in social justice that your country needs right now. I love you and I believe in you. Hang in there friends!

I leave you with a quote from the great Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who lives in infamy for his brilliant confrontation of social injustice through non-violent protest....

"Human progress is neither automatic nor inevitable... Every step toward the goal of justice requires sacrifice, suffering, and struggle; the tireless exertions and passionate concern of dedicated individuals. "

With love,
Sarah Were

Julius Update 2.3.08

2008-02-03T10:14:00.000-06:00

I have been talking to Julius on the phone 2-3 times per day, and I am amazed at the strength in his voice considering all that he is going through right now. Besides being in deep grief and feeling jet-lagged, he is busy from morning until night navigating through an abyss of details. He has been in Nairobi up to this point planning the funeral along with his family and a government committee, meeting with lawyers and working through various legal issues, meeting with other members of parliament, seeking security for his family, writing Melitus's history for the funeral service and the newspaper, and assisting other family members with travel arrangements so they can get into Kenya in time for the funeral. Right now he is in Busia (western Kenya) making arrangements to finalize construction on a home that Melitus was building on their family's land so it is ready in time for all of the visitors to arrive. At this point, they are projecting that the funeral will take place on February 9th. Julius has allowed me to share with you a portion of a cathartic poem he wrote about his brother..."Melitus, my mornings are spent grieving,
I cry every morning wishing that all this but just a bad dream, to vanish like the mist in the morning...Brother your good deeds to many will glow forever, make me numb to this pain, make me numb, I can’t bear the pain...Melitus, brother who did this? You need to tell me, Wake up brother...Brother, mother has been dead, I miss her every breathing moment, and now you too brother, just breath again...My name is Julius Odoul Were and Melitus Mugabe Were is my brother."

Julius and I are absolutely overwhelmed by the love, encouragement, and generosity of you all, our community. Thank you for your prayers, kind words, and donations. Julius specifically said that he is drawing from the strength of his friends and family back home. Pray for strength for Julius as he leads his family through this difficult time, pray for safety for his entire family, pray for peace and stability in that entire nation, and pray for our baby within me that is waiting anxiously for daddy's return home. With love, Sarah Were

Update from Sarah

2008-01-31T23:41:00.000-06:00

Julius has arrived safely in Nairobi and has united with his family. I regret that he missed the gathering tonight, as approximately 25 friends from all over Kansas City, Kenyans and Americans, filled our home with love and encouragement. I was so encouraged by how our Kenyan friends spoke with such respect and admiration for our brother, Melitus Were, as many viewed him as a well-intentioned, honest, and positive community leader who truly wanted to make a difference in his country. I am humbled by the generosity of our community, as many came with monetary gifts. To all of you, on behalf of Julius and I and our extended family in Kenya, I say THANK YOU!! We definitely feel surrounded by love and prayer, and that is an awesome feeling to have in the midst of a situation that is so tragic.

Sarah

SFK Alumni Steps Up to Raise Funds

2008-01-31T11:05:00.000-06:00

In response to the recent tragedy in Kenya and specifically in the Were family, Sara Budin has generously offered to resume a project she first began when she was raising funds to travel with Soulfari Kenya.

"In order to fund my trip to Kenya in 2006, I made and sold silver necklaces with the swahili word, UMOJA, stamped on the surface. This word means, unity.It was never my intent to resume this project under such a tragic circumstance; however, it is the one way which I know how to share and offer my love and support to the Were family."

If you would like to purchase an Umoja necklace to show your support for Kenya and the SFK family, please email Sara. The cost is $35 and checks can be made directly to Soulfari Kenya.

How To Give

2008-01-30T15:00:00.000-06:00

Many people have expressed an interest in giving monetarily after hearing about the death of our brother. SFK is so grateful to have such a large extended family who cares so much. Asante.

Donations can be made online by clicking the ChipIn! button to the right of this post or mailed to Soulfari Kenya: PO Box 2321 Shawnee Mission, Kansas 66201.

SFK always accepts tax-deductible donations, however; any contributions made through the month of February will be used wholly to support the welfare of the Were family in Kenya.

Questions or Concerns? Email us.

The Weres in the News

2008-01-30T14:25:00.000-06:00

SFK is so appreciative of everyone for the support and condolences that have been offered. Julius left this afternoon to fly home to Kenya and we know it will be a difficult journey. Please keep him in your thoughts and prayers.

Kansas City's Channel 9 news came to the airport today and featured an interview with Julius on their 5:00pm news broadcast. You can link to the video here.

In addition, the Kansas City Star did a wonderful article on Kenya, and specifically Julius, today on the front page. To link to the article, click here.

Kenyan Crisis Hits Home

2008-01-29T21:02:00.000-06:00

The Soulfari Kenya family is sad to announce the death of our brother, Melitus Mugabe Were. Melitus was shot and killed at his home in Nairobi on Monday night, January 28. This definitely came as a shock to us. Julius is scheduled to leave Kansas City, bound for Kenya on Wednesday afternoon, January 30th. He will meet his family members there and immediately make arrangements for his elder brother's funeral. We ask for your prayers for his safety as he will be in Kenya for the duration of one month. We will post updates on this blog and let you know how he is doing. If you would like to extend your condolences, you can direct your emails to soulfari@soulfarikenya.com

SFK Alumni Respond to Media's Picture of Hopelessness

2008-01-13T20:59:00.000-06:00

This article (and others like it) makes me angry— and not just with the corrupt Kenya governmental system which created this mess or with the “rebels” who are instigating and carrying out the violence and looting (though my feelings toward both of these have been far from kind over the past few days)—but, with the media’s portrayal of it. On one hand, I am grateful for the attention the media is focusing on Kenya right now (though it’s not the front page story as it seems it should be) and I wish that more people were aware of it but it seems like the media too often presents only one side of the story: they paint Kenya as a seemingly hopeless situation and its people as violent thugs diametrically opposed along tribal lines… “The gangs of Nairobi” and “the swarming multitudes of young men …patrolling the slums with machetes, axes” who possess a “long-suppressed desire for revenge” and are “drinking or bathing in blood.” They don’t report on the inherent kindness and generosity of the Kenyan people (which we all witnessed firsthand).

They don’t report on all of the good which is occurring amidst the chaos and killing which the people living there write about on their blogs – for example, one such blog post reads “I am always impressed when visiting our local Nakumatt supermarket, at the great pile of donations ready for collection by the Red Cross. It seems that everyone is chipping in and trying to help. While you walk around doing your shopping, you hear over the blaring radio, appeals like the Kiss FM 'caravan of hope', asking for donations of food.”

This article tells about how “the conflict has pitted tribes…best friends against one another” but not about how the vast majority of the Kenyan people (regardless of which tribe they belong to) are united by a great yearning for peace. Our friends in Kenya aren’t all from the same tribe but that didn’t stand in the way of their friendships with and respect for one another...and it seems like the communications we’ve had from all of them over the past few weeks have had a common theme of wishing for peace.

The news reports and articles seem intended to create a sense of horror for their readers rather than inspire them to action. The first paragraph of this article states that the US gave $15 million to help with “law and order” in Kenya and that the current chaos and violence there occurred in spite of it – seeming to imply that attempts to aid Kenya don’t do any good, so why even try. Why should the press discourage hope amongst their readers who are merely sitting on the sidelines when the Kenyan people who are living through the crisis everyday have not lost their hope as witnessed by Gloria’s words: “Yesterday, we were praying for our country at church. As we came to end in prayer, in my mind, I saw the picture of a sunrise. The new dawn. Weeping may last for a night, but joy comes in the morning.” I’m with Gloria – hope should be the focus. I just wish more news organizations realized that. I think that’s why it is so important, now more than ever, that we continue to tell our stories and share our experiences during our time in Kenya so that more people will view it as the magical place that we all fell in love with rather than some hostile, hopeless hell-on-earth.

From: Jodi Heltenberg, SFK Traveler 2007 and 2008

Reminder: 2008 Trip Info Meeting

2008-01-08T11:03:00.000-06:00

From our Friend in Nairobi

2008-01-08T10:42:00.000-06:00

** The following is an email from our friend, Gloria, to SFK's Executive Director, Josie Mai**

Dear Josie,

Thank you for checking on me. I am well. I am at work as a matter of fact. My family is well too. We thank God for that.

Its crazy whats happening here. Its something no one ever thought would happen. Who thought that other African leaders would be coming here to sit in reconciliation talks- talks that we have been involved in as we seek to reconcile leaders in other countries... Its almost overwhelming just to think about it.

At times I find myself thinking that all the people running amok in the streets should stop and think. With all due respect, they are not the ones with the well paying jobs. I do not know if their line of thought is that if the opposition comes in they shall rise significantly, or they are truly upset about the anomalies in the election process ( I'm not taking sides, but this is my opinion - one outrigged the other). I feel bad that they are the ones getting hurt in the 'violence' and those they seek to stand up for are in the luxuries of their homes. Someone break it down for me. I just don't understand it.

Its so easy to be bitter and in fact, there is a sense of bitterness and anger. There has been lots of pain - with people who have lost loved ones or who have loved ones in hospital beds. Some have lost their homes and businesses. But I think the worst thing is to have lived next to someone for so many years and then have them chase you away or stab you in the back. Our leaders have in a sense failed us in such a time as this.......

We are praying as a country for peace, we do not want to go the way of Rwanda, we do not want to leave our country. We are asking our leaders to put aside differences and advocate fervently for peace. We have been challenged to reach out to one another and advocate for peace. Those who have are giving to those who do not have, those at Jamuhuri Park who have had to put up there because they have had to leave their homes.

Eldoret has almost calmed down in a sense - a bit too late for many have been evacuated, many houses burned and many seeking refuge at police posts , Mombasa has been experiencing waves (in particular sections of the place) - here too, people have looted and burned down some business places. Nairobi has had its share of this pandemonium. Most of the people that come out of the streets are mainly from particular sections of the city. Businesses are opening but with a sense of apprehension. Looks like they will close again for tomorrow the oppostion states that there shall be rallies in different parts of the country. Kisumu has lost much in terms of buildings looted and burnt and also in terms of lives lost. Looks like the worst has peaked. Travelling from Kisumu is also quite difficult because of hiked fares and barricades on the road.

I've been at a relatively quiet part of Nairobi and so have in a sense stayed away from the violence. I was in Mombasa, but left to come back to Nairobi before events began to unfold. Its a bit crazy, there are those that are staying at places that so quiet and it seems like nothing is going on and then there are those that are living where its all happening. I'm trying to play my part in helping where I can and to keep praying. I know something good shall come out after we have passed through this. We are walking through the fire, going through the waters but we shall not burn, we shall not drown for the Lord our God, He is God. He is with us.

This shall come to an end, of course, reconstruction and rebuilding, not just of physical property but hearts shall keep us busy for a long while after this.

For a long time, we have been known to be a peaceful country, to be a refuge for our neighbors - who have run to us for shelter. Perhaps, from this, we shall know truly what it feels like, and therefore be able to assist even more with empathetic hearts.

Yesterday, we were praying for our country at church. As we came to end in prayer, in my mind, I saw the picture of a sunrise. The new dawn. Weeping may last for a night, but joy comes in the morning. Thing is, I have a sense of peace - how I pray that it is not a sense of passiveness.

This is what is in my heart Josie.

So continue to pray for us and with us as we walk through this trying time.
GLORIA

Gloria (center) with SFK trip leaders Josie Mai and Julius Were

July 2007

Its Not Just About Us or Iraq

2008-01-08T10:21:00.000-06:00

As we've watched the violence in Kenya unfold following their recent elections, SFK can't help but wonder about our own presidential candidates.

The TIME Blog shares some interesting information on one candidate regarding the crisis in Kenya. What about the rest of them? What are their thoughts on the situation there? What will they do to help?

Take Action.

2008-01-05T23:53:00.000-06:00

It has been a struggle to watch the chaos in Kenya on our TVs and to worry for our friends. Not knowing what to do, or how to help can be frustrating and discouraging. Thankfully, there are websites like this where we can take action, and we encourage you to do the same. Thanks for your support and concern.

Kenya's Growing Pains: A Note from SFK's Executive Director

2008-01-04T14:45:00.000-06:00

Do you remember having growing pains as a kid? I remember lying in my bed at night, legs aching so badly I couldn't sleep. The pain never lasted long, but it reminded me that my body was becoming an adult, full, it's whole self.

This is the only way I can view the current violence and aching in Kenya. Relatively, they are still a new country, only recently playing by their own rules, not the colonist's. The rules are set, a few people are not playing by them, and the masses suffer. I won't go on about the details. As of this morning, a second rally of protest has been stifled by the police and Kibaki is softening toward a recount. Transparency of this recount is the only thing that will ease Kenyans back to their daily lives. The media source I am following is BBC radio and internet. They are actually interviewing Kenyans, not just showing the "slum-dwellers" running amok as Kenya is "convulsed".

I talked for a long time with Julius on the phone last night. He, like the rest of us, is helpless to do anything tangible for our friends and family in Kenya. He spoke with passion about the situation, and I listened and asked my questions like a good sister, like a good executive director. Emmanuel and the kids are OK. They are in Dandora, a predominantly Kikuyu (Kibaki) slum and they are essentially Luo (opposition). Shops are closed, there is no transport, they are staying indoors. Florence is a sister living upcountry, closer to Uganda. There is even police presence there, in the country. She lives in a predominantly Luo area and reports Kikuyu's fleeing into Uganda. Other friends and family members are OK. I am not concerned about the Missionaries of Charity. They have built a fortress of a compound and can lock the 15 foot gate anytime. I am more concerned about Villa Teag in Dandora. The kids are safe inside, but I don't know about Zaria and the workers who usually come and go and do not actually live there.

As an organization, Soulfari Kenya will move through this with our Kenyan friends. We are in this for the long haul. None of our work is in vain. Meaningful relationships are never in vain. The trip for July 2008 is still on. We will make a final decision in April when it is time to purchase airfare. One week of political turmoil does not change the personal friendships we have forged with Nelson, Kym, Kwame, Gloria, the kids of Huruma, Emmanuel, Franci, Mary, and Kevin, Helen, Pamela, Salim etc etc.

In this present moment, money won't help. Shops are closed. But there will be some rebuilding to do. We want to be able to help in this process. If you are interested in donating specifically to rebuild the livelihood of our Kenyan partners, let us know. Meanwhile, you can also purchase a beautiful calendar created for Soulfari, filled with the faces and service that define us. Hang one where you will see it every day, to be reminded of the growing pains of our Kenyan friends, that it will pass, that there is health, hope, and happiness around the corner. You can order it here.

Thank you for your thoughts and prayers and concerns. Continue to be informed, and hopeful.

Josie Mai

Executive Director and Founder

Soulfari Kenya Inc

face.africa at spiva arts center (recap)

2007-12-06T10:32:00.000-06:00

The Opening Reception for the face.africa show was a huge success. The Spiva Arts Center was packed and Josie had an opportunity to share about her experiences in Kenya with the young women depicted in the pictures, the artists, and more. People recognized something in these girls' faces and it was powerful to see their reactions and to hear the questions they would ask.

The face.africa project makes an undeniable impact on those who come in contact with it. Read one of Josie's students review of the show here.

As a result of the impressive opening last week, the exhibit will move for one day to Jefferson City, MO where it will be featured in the Missouri Citizens for the Arts Day on February 13, 2008. This is a big legislation day for Arts Advocacy in the State of Missouri. It is a huge honor, and Soulfari Kenya is grateful the face.africa project has been recognized and chosen for this event.

Here are some pictures, courtesty of Josie, from the Gallery at Spiva...

Happy Holidays from SFK!

2007-11-30T09:03:00.000-06:00

We are pleased to announce the Pamoja Campaign. Pamoja means “together” or “united” in Kiswahili.

As we develop as an organization, we have dreams and visions. In order for these to continue to unfold, we need you, our generous community.

We have spots left for the July 2008 trip (sign up by December 1st and get the early bird special!), but if you can’t physically go and serve our Kenyan friends, there are other ways to work together.

Our mission is to connect, educate, and empower Africans and Americans. This includes you and your family and friends, right where you are. You don’t have to go to Kenya to connect, educate, and empower.

During this holiday season and beyond, there are many ways to contribute.

Purchase a face.africa art catalog for $30 at lulu.com by clicking here(2007-2008) and here(2006-2007)

ChipIn on our website on the contribute page.

ChipIn through our blog.

As you buy gifts online, use igive.com and they will donate a portion to SFK

Consider donating on a monthly basis. Contact us for more info.
Consider having your company match your giving.
Consider donating unused frequent flyer miles to us. Contact us for more info.

Specific ways to channel your gift:

$400 face.africa art show framing and marketing
$5000 office equipment including new desktop for the Weres, laptop for the organization
$5000 administration includes po box, website, postage, consultation fees, non-profit filing fees, etc.
$10,000 trip leader expense fund makes sure all trips are covered financially for the outstanding leadership required to make the trip possible
$15,000 staff salaries split evenly between Josie, Julius and Sarah for the year

All donations are tax-deductible, with the exception of a catalog purchase.

Thank you for your generous spirit and your own work in the world. May you be blessed this season.

face.africa update

2007-11-21T09:26:00.000-06:00

We are anxiously awaiting the big reveal of the 2007-2008 face.africa show! The show at Spiva Arts Center in Joplin, MO opens to the public on Saturday, Dec. 1 and runs through Sunday, Jan. 6, 2008.

We would love for you to join us for the Opening Reception on Friday November 30th from 6-8pm. If you are interested in learning more about the face.africa project and the upcoming show, read the latest press here.

Looking for gift ideas? A book showcasing the 2007-2008 collection will be available for purchase at the Opening Reception and online. You can also purchase a book of the 2006-2007 face.africa collection online.

The Faces of SFK

2007-11-12T10:33:00.000-06:00

Join us November 30th for the opening reception of the face.africa exhibit in Joplin, MO. This round of face.africa portraits were created by talented high school students from all over Missouri. The faces they depict are those of beautiful young women from Kibera, Kenya.

Stay tuned for updates including a link to the catalog of photos, additional information about the project, and more!

You're Invited...

2007-10-21T21:18:00.001-05:00

Click here for the SFK 2008 flier

Former Traveler Completes Chicago Marathon with SFK in Mind.

2007-10-15T19:49:00.000-05:00

In 2006, orphans at Villa Teag in Dandora, Kenya traced their hands with a sharpie. The hands were then cut out and traced onto a mural for the orphanage. Instead of being discarded, the tracings made their way to safari, a luxury few Kenyans get to experience. The hands then traveled to the coast of Kenya, the Midwest of the US, Ground Zero in NYC, the west coast of the US, Tokyo, Thailand, and China.

2006 alumni, Amy Frazer, has been one of SFK's most faithful supporters. She has been especially dedicated to SFK's "Hands Across the World" art initiative.

On October 7th, Amy completed the Chicago Marathon. As she prepared for the race, she asked for sponsorship of the hands.

Amy raised $800 for the "Hands Across the World" portion of her race. SFK is proud to be one of three non-profits that will benefit from her efforts and we are so grateful to have her support. Asante Sana, Rafiki.

Amy is committed to the work of SFK and has already signed on for 2008's trip so if you're looking for a reason to go with us next summer, meeting a girl as cool as this may be a great incentive!

Amy in 2006 with SFK's co-founder and trip leader Julius Were

For more information and photos of the "Hands Across the World" project or the hands' journeys thus far, click here and here.

Dandora's Dump.

2007-10-10T12:22:00.000-05:00

SFK has a special connection to Dandora. This neighborhood in Kenya was once home to SFK founder Julius and his family. For the last several years, a trip to Dandora has been incorporated into the SFK trip.

All of Nairobi's trash (that isn't littered elsewhere in the city) is brought here to rest. Men, women, and children sift through for treasures: discarded food, plastic bags for basket weaving, usable parts for electronics, and other recyclable materials. Shadows of these people can be seen climbing through heaps of garbage, and they are joined by gluttonous pigs, goats, and cows who ingest the toxic wastes. Disgusting birds reminiscent of pterodactyls keep watch and dive in to claim whatever they want as well.

Though some depend on the it for their livelihood, it seems common sense to realize the damage that the dump has done to its surrounding communities. Recently, there was a news article published that shared some of the horrors of the city dump that festers in Dandora, and how it is poisoning children in the area, many of whom go to school just a few feet away. Additional information regarding the dump can be obtained here.

It is a dream of SFK to do something to challenge this situation. In 2006, extensive video footage was taken of the dump site as well as on-camera interviews with residents of Dandora. We hope we'll be able to share that footage via this blog sometime in the near future. Outside of being aware and sharing our own experiences there, we're not 100% sure what to do with this frightening reality.

Here are a couple of traveler photos from the 2007 trip to the dump:

As a former traveler, I can honestly say that this is one of the most hideous, not to mention the most hazardous things I have ever witnessed. It is a scavengers paradise, and, even with my vivid imagination, I am sure I barely scratch the surface of what is actually contained in the dump. I am literally afraid to know the extent of what it holds.

I have yet to find the words to describe my experience here, to truly communicate the horror I felt when I peered down from the rooftop where we stood. Someday I hope to. I also hope to someday be a part of a massive effort to right this terrible wrong. - Bri Irwin

we love reunions!

2007-09-23T13:23:00.000-05:00

last weekend was a much anticipated one for the sfk2007 crew -- almost our entire team was back together again for a reunion in kansas city. there were several impromptu gatherings throughout the weekend, but our official get together took place on saturday.

the weres opened up their home to our team and provided a delicious kenyan meal of fish, lentils, chapati, samosas, and fresh fruit. jodi even learned all the secrets of preparation and cooking and was a great help to sarah and julius.

all of us were overwhelmed with seeing each other again. it is a strange and beautiful thing to have a community in kenya and then find yourselves together again in the middle of the united states.

chakula!

the (partial) sfk2007 crew... jenn, jos, meghan, jim, brenda, bri, jodi, and joolee.

sarah and joolee, our gracious hosts.

SFK Partner Spotlight - Alex Chalo

2007-08-26T12:15:00.000-05:00

I am Alex Chalo Makau, 23 years old and an artist.

I am a former street boy.

I became a street child at the age of five and at the age of nine years old I met Julius, who was working as a volunteer at Mission Hope children’s home. He helped my friends and I to get away from the street by assisting us to quit drugs.

After Julius took my friends and I to Mission Hope, the home collapsed after some time. From there I went to Maisha Mema Children's Home which is run by a couple from Norway. They paid for my education and provided for my needs.

I developed and improved my art skills there.

As an adult now, I use my art to earn my living. I make postcards, paintings, and I also do bead work.

As an up and coming artist, the problems I face are marketing

these items and gaining the capital

I need to make more...

My dream is to have my own curio shop where I can sell my art work and other artists’ items.

If you are interested in purchasing any of Alex's work or would like to learn more about it, please contact us: soulfari@soulfarikenya.com

SFK on TV - Part 1 of 2

2007-08-13T14:44:00.000-05:00

Josie, SFK Executive Director and 2007 Trip Leader along with Jim, SFK 2007 Traveler, were recently interviewed about July's trip!

Both are professors at MSSU and were approached by the local NBC affiliates segment as part of their "Four States Traveler" series.

Visit their website to view the first TV interview and stay tuned, we'll be posting Part 2 as soon as it is available!

SFK Partner Spotlight - Great Horizon Trails

2007-08-09T12:04:00.000-05:00

This is Maricus Okoth Orao. Marcus is the Chief Executive Officer of Great Horizon Trails. He is a renown professional Tour and Safari Operator in Nairobi, Kenya running the company with the help of a team of professionally trained staff with a wealth of experience in the tourism industry.

Marcus assists Soulfari Kenya by organizing the accommodation and transportation needed for our wonderful safari experiences. He has proven to be a faithful partner as he has often come to the airport to meet and greet our travelers arriving from America, he calls us to make sure that our arrangements are satisfactory, and he is always available when we need him. Marcus is fun, approachable, honest, and very detailed to the letter. He is proud to work with Soulfari Kenya as a partner and the “sole appointed ground handler” in Kenya.

Marcus was born in Rusinga Island in Lake Victoria, the western part of Kenya. He describes Kenya as a land of varieties, spanning from culture, people, politics, tribes, and landscapes. He describes the people of Kenya as peaceful, loving, warm, and always ready to welcome visitors saying “Karibu!”

**To see more of SFK's partners in Kenya and in the USA please click here and stay tuned for more spotlights**

face.africa update!

2007-08-06T15:02:00.000-05:00

One of Soulfari Kenya's art initiatives, face.africa, has been very busy! On June 1 the portraits were displayed in an art gallery at SFK's official launch party. Artists, community members, and friends of SFK were there to show their support for this project and for the organization as a whole.

In July, the 2007 travelers were present while Josie Mai, SFK's executive director and the woman behind the face.africa project, presented the original artwork to the children at Villa Teag. 60 of the 70 kids who were photographed during the 2006 trip were there to receive their gift.

The portraits were presented one at a time and all of the kids screamed the name of the portrait owner as they came forward from the crowd. It was an incredible thing to witness the joy in their faces as they were given this beautiful piece of art.. art that celebrated each one of them. If you haven't done so already, be sure and check out the art!

Josie photographed each child receiving his or her portrait and the artists that had donated their time to this project will receive this back as SFK and face.africa's way of saying thank you.

If you would like to support this project, please consider buying the book online. It makes a great gift and all proceeds will go directly back to the face.africa project.

Josie chose to recruit a group of older girls and young women to interview and photograph for face.africa 2007-2008. This group is from the slum of Kibera and the participants have joined a group called Binti Pamoja(Daughters United). It's basically a support group where they can talk freely about issues affecting them (revolutionary in Kenya!). This group is sponsored by Carolina for Kibera , a group SFK works closely with in Kenya.

Josie is already making plans to recruit artists for this next round of portraits (and the December show) and she is focusing on teenagers that she worked with in Springfield at the Missouri Fine Arts Academy... Teenagers empowering other teenagers should make a great impact!

Welcome Home Julius!

2007-08-04T19:41:00.001-05:00

The last of the SFK2007 travelers arrived home safely yesterday. Julius, we're glad you made it. The rest of us are a week ahead in coping with the shock of re-entry into the states... you've got some catching up to do. But, now that we're all here... I guess it is time to nail down that reunion weekend...

Traveler Diary

2007-08-03T19:18:00.000-05:00

Nearly all SFK travelers will struggle to process what they experience while in Kenya...and then struggle even more after we get home.

This processing stuff is emotional...it is intense...it is hard, hard work...

Some of us will journal like mad in our private notebooks, some of us will blog for the world to see, and some of us will reach out to specific family and friends over the phone or email.

A 2007 traveler, Jenn, has graciously agreed to let us share the emails she wrote home. Click here to read about her experiences in Kenya this summer.

Soulfari Travelers in Action

2007-08-02T14:35:00.000-05:00

Every traveler that chooses to come on a Soulfari Kenya trip comes for a different reason.

Some of us are looking for healing, some of us are looking for an escape, some of us are looking for ourselves, some of us are looking for an adventure, and some of us are just curious.

Whatever the reason is that we come, and wherever it is we come from... we find a million more reasons to want to stay.

Here are photos of the 2007 crew with some of the kids that changed our lives forever.

Julius (Trip Leader and Soulfari Kenya's Director of International Relations )

Josie (Trip Leader and Soulfari Kenya Executive Director)

Jim (1st time traveler from Missouri)

Brenda (1st time traveler from Missouri)

Sarah (1st time traveler from Texas)

Jenn (1st time traveler from Illinois)

Edna (1st time traveler from Missouri)

Bri (2nd time traveler from Kansas and Soulfari Kenya Board Member)

Meghan (1st time traveler from Colorado)

Jodi (1st time traveler from Colorado)

Karibu Home

2007-07-31T10:46:00.000-05:00

We are back. We are safe. We are struggling with reverse culture shock. We are thankful. We are transformed. Thanks to all who have supported this year's journey. There are many more photos to share and stories to tell. They are coming.

Meanwhile, a few traveler blogs to explore:

Bri
Edna
Meghan

Update on the SFK 2007 Crew

2007-07-13T12:28:00.000-05:00

It has been awesome reading updates from Josie, Julius, Bri, and the other travelers. So awesome, in fact, that it makes it very hard to be here in KC and not there with them in Kenya. There have been a few inconveniences, but no major illness or threats to their safety. A couple of pieces of luggage did not arrive, and still have not arrived, which is frustrating, but everyone has handled it with such flexibility and with a true "hakuna matata" spirit. They have been serving at the Missionaries of Charity children's home getting stretched in ways they never imagined. It sounds like many of have become attached to the infants and toddlers and know most of them by name. They are all taking time each day to get the older women up and moving with songs like the hokey pokey and head shoulders knees and toes. Although the room with the kids with disabilities is an extremely challenging place to work, all of the travelers have been taking time each day to feed those kids and give them their touch and attention. Josie and Julius are constantly commenting about how impressed they are with this group's maturity, positive spirit, and cohesiveness. Next week they are going to visit Villa Teag in Dandora and also Carolina's for Kibera in the Kibera slums. This weekend they will be going to the elephant orphanage, giraffe center, curio markets, and to Lake Nakuru, where they will see thousands of flamingos and many other animals. It's a full itinerary and they are taking in each experience one at a time and soaking up everything that there is to learn from it. Hearing stories from these travelers reminds me again why we do what we do at Soulfari Kenya. We are about life transformation, and that is exactly what is happening with our travelers as we speak. Continue to pray for their safety, health, and strength. -sarah

Kwaheri (goodbye) Julius!

2007-06-25T16:31:00.000-05:00

Julius is heading to Kenya today to join his family and prepare for the Soulfari Kenya group trip. Please keep him in your prayers as he travels overseas, within Nairobi, and across the country to western Kenya. The other travelers will join him on July 5th with Josie Mai as the leader. I (Sarah Were) will remain back home in Kansas City. Safari Njema, Joolee!

Vanity Fair Africa Issue

2007-06-20T23:22:00.000-05:00

Yet again, Bono demonstrates his brilliance and compassion to pull off another incredible project ... a historic issue of Vanity Fair solely devoted to celebrating Africa and benefitting Africa. This issue is educational and beautiful, and also full of integrity. I was most impressed with Wainaina's article on modern day Kenya, Brad Pitt's interview of Archbishop Desmond Tutu, the summaries of what each presidential candidate plans to do for Africa, and the article on Jeffrey Sach's plan to eradicate global poverty. I rarely waste money on magazines and I never talk friends into buying magazines... until now. So whether you have a crush on Bono like I do, are convicted about impacting Africa like I am, or you just have $4.50 that you are willing to spend on this versus a latte, then I say pick up one of these issues and most importantly, read it cover to cover. Check it out online

-Sarah Were

Soulfari Kenya is officially launched...

2007-06-18T18:04:00.000-05:00

Our June 1st launch party was a great success and we are grateful to all of those who came out to support us. Thank you especially to the artists who created the stunning portraits and all of those friends of Soulfari Kenya who contributed your time, money, and effort to make this party possible. (Thank you notes are on the way!) This party confirmed to us that we are surrounded by a faithful community of people who believe in us and believe in this vision... wow! Through donations and Face.Africa books sales, we were able to help fund our leaders' trip costs for this upcoming July trip. We will continue to accept donations as we have not yet reached our fundraising goal. You are invited to use the Paypal option on our website www.soulfarikenya.com, click on "contribute". Asante Sana!!!!

SFK Founders meet the Kenyan Ambassador

2007-06-18T17:43:00.000-05:00

On June 9th, Julius and Sarah had a rare opportunity to have breakfast with the Kenyan Ambassador to the United States who was visiting Kansas City from Washington D.C in celebration of Kenya's Madaraka Day. He graciously listened to us share our vision of Soulfari Kenya and we presented him with our Face.Africa book. He said that he will share it with his staff at the embassy. We expressed our gratitude for his office's assistance with our travelers' visas. Antony Gitau Omondi, one of Soulfari Kenya's board members and a faithful member of OKKC (Organization of Kenyans in Kansas City, hosted the Ambassador for most of the weekend accompanying him to the Kenyan celebrations and showing him our wonderful city. Yet another incredible opportunity in Soulfari Kenya's history!

Soulfari Kenya's new sites online

2007-06-18T17:38:00.000-05:00

Soulfari Kenya has launched a new website on our primary site, thanks to our friends at DI Interactive, so have fun exploring all the new features.

We also launched a myspace page so travelers and friends of Soulfari Kenya have a place online to meet and dialogue.

ENJOY!

Soulfari Launch Invitation

2007-05-05T17:11:00.000-05:00

Location: Chameleon Arts and Youth Development
2025 Tracy Ave, Kansas City, Missouri

Save the Launch Date

2007-05-01T22:22:00.000-05:00

1st Annual Soulfari Kenya Board of Directors Retreat

2007-04-15T12:26:00.000-05:00

On Friday, April 13th, the Soulfari Kenya Board of Directors gathered together for a weekend retreat at Unity Village. It was an incredible time full of brilliant ideas, positive energy, focused passion, and sweet community. The founders are so grateful for this crew of creative, talented, service-minded, and loving individuals. Thank you Barb, Phil, Bri, Ally, Elizabeth, Ben, and Antony for your commitment to the vision of Soulfari Kenya!!

Africans and Americans Gather Together to Celebrate Africa

2007-03-24T12:02:00.000-05:00

The 2nd Annual Africa Night

Saturday, April 14th, 2007

Jacob's Well Church in midtown KC

1617 W. 42nd St (42nd & Wyoming)

Food, Music, and Fashion!

For laughs, fun, and understanding!

$2.00 in advance and $4.00 at the door

Email Soulfari Kenya board member, Philip Lesniewski, for more information or advance tickets philipl@jacobswellchurch.org

Mattresses

2007-01-05T20:59:00.000-06:00

A generous friend and former traveler of ours donated cash to buy new mattresses at Villa Teag.
Asante sana, Rafiki!

A Personal Letter to Our Friends at Villa Teag

2007-01-04T22:46:00.000-06:00

Habari zenu? How are all our friends at Villa Teag? We were overjoyed to receive the letters from the children. You can imagine me (Auntie Sarah) sitting there reading with tears falling from my eyes for I was so happy to read the words of the children, look at their drawings, and see the photos of all of you. We miss you all and think of you every single day. Each and every one of your beautiful faces are deeply embedded in our memories and we smile at every time we remember our precious moments with you. You are family and we love you very much. We know we will be back to hug you, talk with you, listen to you, sing with you, play with you, learn with you, and dance with you soon. We are scheduled to come back to Kenya in July, 2007. Please pass our greetings and love to those amazing teachers. We remember each of them by name and we feel immensely blessed just for sharing those few days with them in their classrooms. They are such strong, gifted, smart, caring, resilient, and dedicated adults. They are filling a void in the children's lives and for that, they will be blessed by God who smiles as He witnesses the wonderful work they are doing in this world. It is hard to describe the extent of the impact each child and adult at Villa Teag made on our American friends. All of our American friends speak of their experience at Villa Teag with such love and inspiration. Thank you for touching our lives. We will never forget you. We'll be in touch!
Love, Auntie Sarah, Auntie Josie, Uncle Julius

Soulfari Kenya in the KC Star

2006-12-11T19:27:00.000-06:00

This past weekend Soulfari Kenya presented a program at Crossroads Church and it was a success in so many ways. The Crossroads Church community was extremely generous, supportive, and enthusiastic. We were so inspired by the powerful testimony of Peter Makori, the brilliant poetry of Ababio Ababio, the beautiful voice of Cynthia Kuto, the contagious energy of Antony Gitau, and the affirmation and prayers of the entire Crossroads community. Asante sana to all who were involved! Thank you for believing in us and walking alongside us on this journey.

We invite you all to read the article that was published about the event: http://www.kansascity.com/mld/kansascity/news/16211433.htm

Here's the article if you have trouble registering with the KC Star:

Posted on Mon, Dec. 11, 2006

Charity aims to help Kenyan orphans
About 70 people attend an event to celebrate the work of Soulfari and its focus on orphans.

By LINDSAY HANSON METCALF
The Kansas City Star
“The answer is not to adopt all these kids. They need to be empowered.”

Josie Mai, executive director of Soulfari Kenya Inc.

What started during one woman’s Habitat for Humanity experience has grown into its own mission: Soulfari Kenya Inc., a local startup charity for orphaned children in Kenya.

Josie Mai was a University of Kansas student in 1995 when she traveled to east Africa, building houses through Habitat. She returned on her own the following year with her sister Sarah in tow. The two recruited friends for what became near-annual trips to the region.

Sarah met and married Kenyan Julius Were, with whom now she lives in Roeland Park. About a year ago, the three decided to organize as Soulfari Kenya to continue a mission that so far has led them to teach schoolchildren, build a small library and install lights in dim classrooms.

Around 70 people gathered Sunday at Crossroads Church, 7917 Main St., to feast on Kenyan food, sing Swahili praise songs and celebrate Soulfari’s work.

Soulfari founders are waiting for tax-exempt status from the Internal Revenue Service. Meanwhile, they are working to raise $35,000 for their three-week return to Nairobi next July.

They aim to purchase land to build a school and orphanage. Eventually, they hope to start an art school and a clinic.

“The answer is not to adopt all these kids,” said Josie Mai, Soulfari’s executive director. “They need to be empowered.”

Portraits of Nairobi orphans by emerging artists framed the backdrop for the events. Mai, now an assistant art professor at Missouri Southern State University in Joplin, plans to deliver the originals to children this summer and send prints to exhibitions in Kansas City, Joplin and New York.

Special guests Sunday included Ababio Ababio, a Kenyan immigrant and author living in Lenexa, and Peter Makori, a Kenyan journalist who completed a fellowship this year at The Kansas City Star. Makori is seeking political asylum in the United States, following his 2003 imprisonment and torture on false murder charges. He often wrote of human-rights violations and government corruption.

To reach Lindsay Hanson Metcalf, call (816) 234-5904 or send e-mail to lmetcalf@kcstar.com.

Soulfari Kenya Feast and Presentation on Dec 10th

2006-11-30T12:45:00.000-06:00

Kenyan Feast and Soulfari Presentation
When: Sunday, December 10th 12:00 to 3:00pm
Where: Crossroads Church at 7917 Main in KCMO

Enjoy a traditional Kenyan meal, lively Kenyan music and a Soulfari presentation.
Some of the Face.Africa portraits will be available for viewing.
Suggested Meal Donation: $10 for adults, $5 for children

Other "World at Crossroads" events focused on Kenya:

Hanging of the Greens and Ornament Extravaganza
Sunday, December 3rd 12:00 to 4:00pm
A traditional "Hanging of the Greens" with the opportunity for all, regardless of age, to create their own Kenyan-themed ornament. The church will be alive with activity, homemade soups, Christmas music, concluding with the lighting of our tree. (Small fee for ornaments to cover materials.)

Crossroads Annual Christmas Concert
Sunday, December 17th 7:30pm
A festive family event featuring Crossroads talent, as well as Kenyan guests.
A perfect opportunity to bring friends and family.

Candlelight Christmas Eve Service
Sunday, December 24th 7:30pm
A traditional Christmas Eve service with communion and carols.

Sneak Preview of face.africa

2006-11-11T10:27:00.000-06:00

Artists can donate an 11x14 portrait of a child, done in any two-dimensional media and style of their choosing. Josie will then deliver them to each child as gifts in July 2007. Donor artist will receive photo documentation of their child receiving the portrait. The official deadline isn't until December 1st, but look at these great portraits! They were done by Josie's advanced painting class at Missouri Southern. Around the new year, she will post a gallery of the entire collection at www.soulfarikenya.com

The list of donor artists who have committed to making a portrait:

Shanan Kurtz, Brooklyn NY
Natalia Zubko, Brooklyn NY
Aimee Heigold, Portland OR
Winnie Callough, Portland OR
Sara Budin, San Francisco CA
Jen Waters, Quebec CANADA
Mary Hambleton, Brooklyn, NY
Katy Bockelman, St Louis MO
Amy Frazer, Portland OR
Sarah Tomasich, Kansas City MO
Florine Demosthene, Brooklyn NY
Brenda Goodman, NY, NY
Denise Dipiazzo, Overland Park KS
Jerry Lewis, Columbia MO
Art Frick, NY, NY
Rich Kline and two students, O'Fallon MO
Heather Grills, Joplin MO
Ally Moore, Overland Park KS
Hugh Merrill, Kansas City MO
Emmett Merrill, Kansas City MO
Courtney Jeter, Kansas City MO
Pinch Lee, San Francisco CA
Jesse McCormick, Carterville MO
George Oswalt, Oklahoma City OK
Jane Kleindl, Joplin MO
Jeff Youngblood, Joplin MO

Pittsburg State University, Pittsburg KS:
Rhona Shand
Jamie Oliver
Jessica Henson
Jared Smith
Mark Jansen
Holly Kranker

Missouri Southern State University, Joplin MO:
Betsy Cooper
Kristi Teel
Dwayne Mactavious
Trent Mosley
Danna Gray
Jennifer Ragan
Kelsey Kukal
Mal Stevens
Janice Kinman
Jeanette Lage
Alyson Deboutez
Dan Jimenez
Kat McCleary
Rahila Khan
Jason Stamper
Burt Bucher
Josie Mai

McAuley-Catholic High School, Joplin MO:
Ruth Atchley
Ali O'Dell
Kaylee Phillips
Jae Stephens
Aubrey Metts
Paula Daniels
Emily Atchley
Katie Moore
Justin Nguyen
Steven Le
Jorn Vylonis
Courtney Quinn
Liz Heman
Kelli Tandy
Lauren Wiseman
Nicole Seifert
Patrick Smalley
Jonna Brothers
Hunter Hempen
Christopher Atchley
Caley Churchwell
Kevin O'Keefe
Brandon Roark
Shelby Stadler

Hands at Ground Zero on 9/11

2006-10-03T00:30:00.000-05:00

"Art moves through us. It is colored by our individuality, but we are not precisely its origin. Or, to put it differently, a piece of art may originate with us, but we originate somewhere larger ourselves. We are, each of us, more than we seem, more than the sum of our merely human components. There is a divine spark animating each of us, and that divine spark also animates our art. When we ask to be of service in our art, we fling open a window in our creative studio. Through that opening, the greater world of inspiration can enter us. A painter friend of mine talks about art needing a 'hole for the imagination.' I think I might phrase it as 'When we dedicate a piece of art to something larger than our ego, that something larger becomes a felt presence.'" -Julia Cameron from Walking in this World

CNN video features AIDS clinics in rural Kenya

2006-09-29T18:55:00.000-05:00

CNN Presents documentary, “Where Have All The Parents Gone?” reported by Christiane Amanpour, it focuses on the impact of the AIDS epidemic on children in Africa and includes a visit by Ms. Amanpour to AID Village Clinics in May of 2006. The story is primarily set in Maasai land in Kenya. View the video here.

IMPORTANT: Dates have changed for the 2007 trip!

2006-09-24T20:41:00.000-05:00

Due to unforeseen circumstances, we had to change the trip dates for our summer 2007 trip. The actual trip dates will be Thursday, JULY 5th - Thursday, JULY 26th, which is a three week experience with approximately thirteen days dedicated to service in the slums of Nairobi, four days of rest and reflection on an animal safari in the Maasai Mara, and a few interspersed days for other sightseeing experiences in and around Nairobi. Our website will be updated with the 2007 documents by the end of October, but you may email us at soulfari@soulfarikenya.com prior if you want a the 2007 Trip Information Packet and the 2007 Trip Application emailed directly to you.

The trip cost is $2800.00 (This amount is based on an itemized budget that includes: transportation, accommodations, meals, 3-nights at a resort in the Maasai Mara, drivers for the animal safari, flight to safari, cultural outings, entertainment, project funds, travel insurance, and administrative costs.)This amount does not include the cost of your flight to and from Kenya. We will arrange your flights through our travel agent so we can access the most affordable price possible through extensive comparison shopping and group discounts. Flight costs vary drastically from year to year due to fuel costs, and also vary depending upon your departure city, but you can estimate between $1600-$2100. We will purchase the tickets in early March, and will require reimbursement by April 1st.

There are limited spots for next year so we recommend that you make your commitment as soon as you can.

Hands across the World

2006-09-10T17:23:00.000-05:00

This photo was taken by Josie on safari at Maasai Mara. Orphans at Villa Teag traced their hands with a sharpie. The hands were then cut out and traced onto a painted mural for the orphanage. Instead of being discarded, the tracings made it to safari, a luxury few Kenyans get to experience for themselves. The hands traveled to the coast of Kenya, the midwest of the US, and are currently making stops in NYC and the west coast.

Butterfly Dreams and Face.Africa

2006-08-27T13:40:00.000-05:00

Butterfly Dreams < Traveler Amy created amazing interview books. Josie and Mama Mze worked together to interview and photo every child at Villa Teag. Out of this process came information card files for the administration, framed gold photo collages including every child, gifts to the children of hand-made (by Amy) Butterfly Packets, and now the launching of Face.Africa

Face.Africa < Soon Josie will email 100 American and Kenyan artists with the invitation to create a portrait of a particular child at Villa Teag. Summer of 2007, Josie will deliver these to the children and document their receiving of the art. The goal is to connect artists and the children, as well as spread awareness of Soulfari Kenya's work through art exhibits and publications.

Barack Obama in Kenya

2006-08-26T15:46:00.000-05:00

U.S. Senator Barack Obama recently visited Kenya, to honor the birthplace of his father, meet with President Kibaki, visit the memorial of the 1998 Embassy bombing, and also to work towards eliminating the social stigma associated with getting HIV/AIDS testing. He and his wife took HIV tests before a crowd of thousands Saturday at a clinic in Kisumu. Soulfari Kenya is proud of Barack Obama for the way he is representing America and showing great compassion for a country we love.

For more information on Barack Obama and his travels in Africa, visit his website.

Just a little view into the 2006 trip...

2006-08-26T15:31:00.000-05:00

Most of these photos were snatched off the snapfish accounts of the 2006 travelers. Thanks for letting us "borrow" the images.

Soulfari Kenya Leaders in Action

2006-08-26T15:27:00.000-05:00

A Word from Villa Teag's Mama Mzee

2006-08-18T12:51:00.000-05:00

The following is a note from Zaria "Mama Mzee" for the 2006 Soulfari Kenya travelers:

i hereby take this oppurtunity to thank you on
behalf of villateag children and on my own behalf for
sparing your time to be with us during the period you
were in KENYA.i sincerely thank you for everything you
did for the children and myself it was a greet
experience being with you. i personally miss you big
hoping that you will comeback sometime,despite the
distance i pray that we continue to communicate. i
wish to tell that may you be succesfull in you careers
and lives. i pray to God to continue showering his
blessings to you.till we meet again God willing. yours
loving Zaria

Reverse-culture shock

2006-08-14T20:05:00.000-05:00

This post is especially written for the 2006 Soulfari Kenya travelers...
So is anyone out there feeling at a loss for words, confused, numb, emotionally overloaded, disoriented, changed, or misunderstood? If you answered yes, then you are experiencing some degree of reverse culture shock. Welcome to the club! As I adjust back to life in the good ol' U.S. of A., I find it helpful to have things on or around me that remind me of my experiences in Kenya... a bracelet, a special photo on my computer desktop, a particular song on my stereo, a phrase written on a post-it on my desk, or a colorful kanga cloth draped over my dining room table. I also find it helpful to sit down with my journal and just write by stream-of-consciousness and see what memories flow out of my mind and heart. It's amazing how my senses and emotions are stimulated by simply remembering. Earlier this week, I journaled like this while chilling amongst the mountains of Colorado and here are some of the memories that flooded my pages (only the travelers will truly appreciate the significance of these memories)...
francy's adorable crooked smile, the energy of the Dandora adult dance troupe, falling apart with righteous anger at the site of the dumpsite, watching Pauline and Eunice teach the Villa Teag kids, Heidi Spann's laughter, listening to Deno share his deep convictions about politics and life in Kenya, Julius trying to sway the giraffe to eat the pellet from his lips, Nelson laughing and dancing like a Massai atop the hill at Lake Nakuru, blue-balled monkeys, suffocating in pollution and stuck in a traffic jam downtown, chapati and lentils, Mama Helen's boisterous high-pitched laugh, sweet greetings from the staff at Fedha Towers cafe, Monica at Missionaries of Charity saying "very goodie", Teresa sitting at my feet holding my hand and smiling, Baba handing me a fist-full of grass just so I would say "asante", Baba blowing me a slobbery kiss with a loud "BA!", the eruption of joy from simply blowing bubbles towards the faces of kids with severe disabilies, watching Lynn Carey stroke the cheek of one of the women who nearly fell asleep in her arms, Sister Stansalata telling us the story of the baby who was abandoned and found in a grocery sack, happily rocking back and forth and jumping up and down with Christine, Ally making balloon hats for the women in Huruma... and the memories go on. Travelers, please post comments with your additions.

Not yet home...

2006-08-10T21:17:00.000-05:00

Currently, the Soulfari Kenya leaders are on a retreat with our family at the YMCA of the Rockies in Estes Park. It's wonderful and restful being here in Kenya-like weather surrounded by the Rocky Mountains, but it's strange because we are still living out of a suitcase. I think we are ready to be home... not necessarily ready to be back at work, but ready to be home. Our minds are racing with memories of Kenya. We have very little access to the internet but we had the opportunity to read an update from one of our travelers, Sara Budin, and it blessed us beyond measure. Asante sana, Sara. As a leader of such an experience, there is nothing more gratifying than reading such an update from someone who really "got it". We love the process of coming home and hearing the reflections from the other travelers. It reminds us why we do what we do and why it's worth exhausting ourselves for a few weeks. hee hee. We are trying to balance our desire to take action on the next steps (follow-up with travelers, writing grants, advocacy for Dandora, etc.) with our need to just rest and reflect on all that we have been through this summer. And then there is the challenge of re-entering into our "normal" daily life of long workdays, bills, schedules, and to-do lists. My prayer is for balance, contentment, peace, and daily gratitude. We look forward to catching up with you all soon and sharing our sweet memories both in story-form and through photos and video. Thank you again for being alongside us on this journey... our soul journey. More to come...

Good and strange to be home...

2006-08-05T05:54:00.000-05:00

So we are back in the States, back in our cozy home, in our comfortable bed, in our air-conditioning, surrounded by our stuff, with access to our own car, which we get to drive on smooth roads... it's strange. Julius said it feels like he is in someone else's home, going through someone else's stuff, without permission. We are reorienting. Seeing our Kansas City family again was incredible for sure, but it's hard because our hearts are aching for our family back in Kenya. We are definitely jet-lagged and our bodies are exhausted, but it's a good exhaustion. We had about 36-hours to do laundry, go through mail, and catch up with friends and family and now we are heading out to Colorado for a family vacation in the Rocky Mountains. I think it's exactly what we need. We really are not ready for official re-entry into our chaotic daily lives here so this trip is perfect. Julius, Josie, and I are looking forward to processing the trip while breathing the fresh mountain air and staring at some of the most beautiful scenery in all of America. Julius has yet to travel anywhere in the U.S. that isn't flat so he's in for a surprise.

If we haven't made contact with you yet, have patience with us and know that we love you and we'll see you as soon as we can. We plan on having folks over for dinner soon to show our video highlights - we'll keep you posted! Thanks again everyone for following our adventures and caring enough to hear what we have to say. I'm sure there's more to come. As soon as we are ready, we will announce our trip dates for next year so if you are itching to go, let us know.

Back from the coast...

2006-08-01T08:44:00.000-05:00

As many of you know, we said goodbye to about half of the travelers this past weekend and went with the remaining travelers to the coast. (The other half leaves today and us leaders leave tomorrow.) It was a wonderful yet strange experience. We stayed in a beautiful resort called LTI Kaskazi right on Diani beach, which is on the south coast of Mombasa. It was a great way to rest, unwind, and let our minds catch up with our hearts. We didn't do much except play in the water, sleep in the sand, and take in the sun. We didn't take any part of the experience for granted, as we greatly appreciated the food, service, atmosphere, the gorgeous scenery and the opportunity to rest. Admittedly, there was a strange element to the experience as well. Over the past two weeks we have either been serving or partnering with Kenyans. They have been by our side as friends. At the resort, we were surrounded by wealthy white people and the only black people were the workers who were serving them. It was strange to see the hierarchy again and it was difficult to see our African brothers and sisters having to put up with demanding and insensitive tourists. I would like to think that we were different in that we made conversation in kiswahili, befriended the staff, we wore our modest, simple clothes rather than our expensive resort wear, and we were not willing to pay the "muzungu" prices for souvenirs on the beach. The fact is though we were there and we could afford to be there and that was strange after spending our time in the slums of Nairobi. I am reminded that as an American, who was not born into poverty, I do have access to so many experiences and so many things. I have the luxury of choosing whether I want to vacation in the poor slums or in the elite resorts. It's a luxury in that I even have a choice. I pray that whatever environment I choose to be in that I always remember to treat everyone equally and with absolute respect and integrity. I pray that I am always conscious and responsible with the money and resources that I am fortunate to have. I pray that I never lose an awareness for how people are treated differently simply because of the color of their skin. I do not only observe white people looking down on people of color. I grieve because I see Africans everyday treating white strangers better than they treat their black brothers and sisters. I wish for Kenyans to be proud of who they are, proud of the color of their skin, proud of where they come from, and proud to be a people who have such a rich culture, unlike anything we have in America. It does bother me that I can afford to go places and see things in this country that my Kenyan brothers and sisters can't afford to see and it is practically in their backyard. It does bother me that I drink grade AA Kenyan coffee from Starbucks that comes from this land but my Kenyan brothers and sisters often can only afford to drink instant Nescafe. It bothers me that Westerners often have more access and control of the natural resources of this land than Kenyans themselves. What do I do about this struggle.. this confusion... this reality? I'm not sure but I'm willing to at least be in the struggle and allow it to change the way I live and the choices I make. I definitely feel like one comes away from a "Soulfari Kenya" experience with more questions than answers. Each one of us has to wrestle with what we have seen and heard and we have to decide how we are going to live our lives from this point on. I pray that all of our memories in Kenya will continue to humble us, make us think, and prompt us to be more deliberate with our words and our actions. So this is deep stuff, huh? I guess that's what 2 days of quiet time on the beach does to you after two weeks of intense, life-changing experiences.

Traveler Update

2006-07-27T03:18:00.000-05:00

Right now the Soulfari Kenya travelers are in the Massai Mara on safari. They will return on Friday afternoon. On Friday evening, we are joining 7 of our Kenyan friends and having a final dinner celebration at the Carnivore (which happens to be next door to the Ja-Rule concert-funny). Some travelers leave late Friday night and Saturday, while the others are taking off for Mombasa for a few days on the beach of the Indian Ocean. Julius and Sarah are currently in Nairobi trying to catch up on sleep and also finalizing a couple projects and delivering the remaining donations.

Soulfari Kenya Wrap-Up

2006-07-27T02:59:00.000-05:00

At the end of each trip, Soulfari Kenya leaders engage the travelers in a wrap-up discussion to learn about how the trip has impacted their lives. In the following post, we would like to share some of their impressions, which are posted anonymously.

"Describe what has been most impressive to you about Kenya"... resourcefulness of Kenyans, smiles and joy amongst poverty, surviving in the pollution, intense physical labor, sense of community, yearning and respect for education, generosity, attitude that they keep rising above.

"Describe a person or situation that has dramatically impacted you"... meeting Salim Muhammed in Kibera, encountering boys on the street who are high on glue, dealing with children and adults with special needs, meeting Pauline (a teacher at Villa Teag), watching Julius lovingly interact with kids on the streets, going on home visits in Kibera, watching a blind woman get around with no fear, seeing a man with one-leg bicycling around Nairobi, seeing corruption in the police and the government.

"Describe a disturbing event or experience"... seeing the dumpsite in Dandora, seeing untrained staff handle adults with disabilities, leaving after such a short time and not sure what to do with it afterwards, making strong relationships with people that we will not be able to easily visit.

"What aspect of American life would you bring to Kenya?"...infrastructure (clean water, better roads, consistent electricity, health regulations), accountability in government, access to job opportunities and education, and a reliable justice system.

"What aspect of Kenyan life would you bring to America?"... family-comes-first mentality, sense of community, making time for proper greetings, simpler life, concept of hakuna matata, being present without all the distractions, less stress, less whining, gratitude, and the incredible hospitality.

"How did you make a difference on this trip?"... made new friends, "I'm not sure I'll ever know", made an effort to communicate and use kiswahili, investing in soulfari kenya long-term, not being an expert, just being here, relaying information to people that can help, calling kids by name, being in the moment, touching and paying attention to their response to touch, I listened and learned.

"What are you looking forward to upon returning to the U.S."... trying to live simply, sleeping in my own bed, being in same time zone as friends/family so I can talk to them easily, funneling out the inspiration that has been funneled in, continuing and starting new projects, Starbucks coffee.

Binti Pamoja Light Box Project

2006-07-27T02:50:00.000-05:00

Soulfari Kenya leaders are often asked the question, "So how can I help?" There are a variety of ways to answer that question but today let me tell you about a wonderful project called Binti Pamoja. Binti Pamoja is a program within the umbrella organization, Carolina's for Kibera, that is dedicated to funding secondary education for young women in the Kibera slum. Recently, a book called "Light Box: Expressions of Hope From Young Women in the Kibera Slum of Nairobi" was published which provides 100% of the proceeds to the young women in Binti Pamoja. Soulfari Kenya supports and believes in this program and we encourage you to purchase this book as it will educate you about the Nairobi slums as well as give you an opportunity to financially contribute to a program that needs the assistance. For more information about the Light Box book or to purchase it, go to www.bintipamoja.org. For more information about the Binti Pamoja program and Carolina's for Kibera, go to http://cfk.unc.edu/cfk-inc.html

Saying Goodbye...

2006-07-27T02:21:00.000-05:00

Our last service day was full of tears and a lot of joy and laughter. Our experiences at the two sites were very different from one another so the goodbyes were different as well. At the Missionaries of Charity site in Huruma, most of us experienced a lesson in "being present". It was difficult to build relationships with the residents at this home because there were many barriers to communication such as language, disability, severe illness, or because they were infants. We were challenged to be creative with how we reached out to them. I believe that the best gift that we could give was the gift of touch. So many of the residents here are rarely touched so they enjoyed hugs, holding hands, being held, having their nails painted, tickles, and just having us sit close. Our group brought in activity, stimulation, and laughter and those are all things that we take for granted that are not always present in places here in Kenya where people who are abandoned, ill, and/or disabled live. The Sisters of Charity do their absolute best to provide for the basic needs of these residents by providing shelter, clothing, food, medicine, and prayer but their hands are full. Beyond those needs are the needs for touch, stimulation, play, creativity, and engagement and those are things we were able to help with. I am proud of our travelers because they allowed themselves to "be present" with children and adults who stretched them. Many of our travelers had never handled a child with a disability and this past week they assisted with children whose disabilities are more severe than anything we would ever see in the U.S. It was amazing to see the connections that developed despite the barriers. Our goodbye at the Missionaries of Charity site was more quiet and subtle, while the goodbye at Villa Teag was a huge event. At Villa Teag we enjoyed a nearly three-hour ceremony! The young children sang and danced and the young adults rapped and sang for us. We said "Thank You" and presented our murals, framed photos, donations, and we gave a butterfly pouch full of school supplies and a soda to each individual child by name. The Soulfari Kenya leaders surprised the travelers and Villa Teag children with a dance troup,that performed high-energy songs and dances, and a comedy troup that danced and made us laugh! The energy was high, the place was packed out, and there was a spirit of love and hope that was so present! Many relationships were formed at Villa Teag so the goodbyes were difficult for most of the travelers. The teachers and students made their mark on us and I think we impacted them as well. It is our hope that we invested primarily in the education of these children by providing school supplies, books, curriculum, better lighting and paint in the classrooms, educational posters, and most importantly, empowerment for the teaching staff. So many Kenyans have reminded us of the gift of knowledge and the power of education. They do not take education for granted here! What a lesson! So it nearly impossible to communicate the impact that this service experience had on the lives of each and every traveler. It is my hope, as a Soulfari Kenya leader, that the impact is seen through the way these travelers live their lives when they return to America.

We received more than we gave!

2006-07-27T02:10:00.000-05:00

It is true that we have received so much more here than we have been able to give. Our Kenyan partners have taught us invaluable lessons about survival, hospitality, community, resourcefulness, generosity, teamwork, music and dance, hope, and love. The material gifts we have provided do not come close to matching the gifts that have been given to us. The material gifts will only be temporary but the gifts that we have received will change our lives forever. With this being said, Soulfari Kenya would like to let our community know what has been given to our Kenyan partners on your behalf because so many of you have contributed and we want to encourage you to keep giving in this way because the needs here are so great.

The primary recipients of our donations: Villa Teag Children’s Center in Dandora, Missionaries of Charity Children’s Home in Huruma, St Joseph School of Huruma, Nyumbani Children’s Home for children with HIV/AIDS, City Primary School (near Mt. Kilimanjaro), a variety of programs within or affiliated with Carolina’s for Kibera, and many individuals here in Kenya who assist Soulfari Kenya.

Summary of gifts: School supplies: 100+ boxes of crayons, assorted markers, assorted pencils, sharpies, 200+ ballpoint pens, chalk, stickers, rulers, notebook paper, construction paper, spiral notebooks, gluesticks, pencil sharpeners, scissors, paper clips, staplers, thumb tacks, staples, drawing paper, certificates. Baby supplies: bibs, desitin, butt paste, mini utensils. Shoes: soccer shoes, tennis shoes, baby/toddler shoes. Baby clothes: onesies, jackets, assorted clothes, socks. Kid clothes: t-shirts, socks, hair ties. Adult clothes: t-shirts, pants, jackets, jeans, socks, shorts. Bedding: 20 sheet sets, wash cloths, 30+ towels, blankets, pillowcases. Audio/Videos: 20+ cds of kids music, children’s videos, and walkman. Luggage: 9 donated pieces. Childrens books: 400+ hardback, paperback, and boardback books. Toys: board games, wooden and foam puzzles, trucks, stuffed animals, blow up globes, bubbles. Hygiene: 500+ toothbrushes, toothpaste, floss, medical masks, bandaids, medical gloves, nail polish. Sports equipment: 20 frisbees, 20 soccer balls, beach balls, jump ropes, rubber balls, magic Velcro mitt game, whiffle balls, foam balls, 20 ft parachute, and 5 ball pumps. Curriculum: a variety of teacher and student texts, flashcards, alphabet strips, wall calendars, and educational posters. Therapy supplies: occupational therapy texts, AFOs, sensory toys, and journals. Other: chocolate candies, peanut butter, journals, backpacks, laundry bags, sewing kits, picnic dishes, clothespins, and 100 Nike bags. In addition, Amy Frazer handmade 52 cloth “butterfly” pouches, which were presented to the children at Villa Teag filled with school supplies and a toothbrush. Also, Jennifer Erdtmann’s students in Kansas City made handmade books for each of the children at Villa Teag. A generous friend of one of the travelers donated a mobile digital printer, which was utilized to create framed photos of all of the Villa Teag children. A 2nd copy of each photo was used to create a file system for tracking key information on each child. Cash donations: Approximately $700 of donated money was applied towards Soulfari Kenya projects. This money was used primarily towards projects at Villa Teag: murals, paint for the classrooms, educational posters, electricity renovation, shelving for the library project, and a few other projects which are still in-the-works. Gift of teaching: Throughout the volunteer time, travelers taught lessons to the children at Villa Teag on a variety of subjects with purposeful intentions to empower the teachers in these areas: geography, dental hygiene, recreational games, safety, trust, mathematics, spelling, exercise, song and dance, science, art and crafts, and reading. The occupational therapists in the group worked alongside the physical therapist at the Missionaries of Charity home teaching new strategies in assisting the children with disabilities.

Special thanks to each and every one of you who made a contribution!!

Happy 3rd Birthday Lillian!

2006-07-27T01:29:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday to our sweet Lillian, a beautiful Kenyan-American who has blessed our lives incredibly for the last 3 years! Bomba, Sarah, Sister Cletty, and Sister Stansalata are celebrating you here in Kenya. We love you precious Lillybug!

Soulfari Kenya in Full Effect!

2006-07-19T10:33:00.001-05:00

The group has only been here a few days but it feels like a few weeks because we have done so much and experienced so much emotionally already. Soulfari Kenya is definitely in full effect! We are on our third volunteer day and we already have some amazing projects in place. We have therapists training at the Mother Teresa home, teachers leading lessons in the schools, we're creating murals, interviewing and taking photos of each Villa Teag child, and we are having fun playing and loving on women and children throughout all of that. This is an amazing group!! They really get our vision and they are applying their gifts and skills with such ease and with absolute respect for our Kenyan partners. They have all brought donations that are very needed at the sites so it will be a great honor to present these gifts later in the week. (Today we observed 4 children sharing one stubby pencil so I think the 200+ pencils and 800+ crayons are going to be put to good use). The travelers are even speaking kiswahili wherever we go and applying everything that Julius is teaching them. It's so fun to see this as a leader. Our partner organizations have opened up their homes with open arms. Villa Teag presented us an amazing one hour welcoming ceremony complete with singing, dancing, poetry, and rapping. Absolutely wonderful! Today at Villa Teag we recognized the memorial day of Julius's mother, Teresia Agalo, who the home was named after. We have enjoyed many nice meals together including a traditional Ethiopian meal last night at the Motherland Cafe. (Some of us were there dancing and having fun until past midnight!) Today we went to a place called Amani ya Juu, which is a creative workshop and store for African refugee women. 80% of the profits of these beautiful handwoven products go back to the women who created them. They gave us a tour of the facility and showed us some of their crafts. Our group spent over $1000 buying cloth tablecloths, aprons, dolls, clothes, and purses, which was an incredible investment in their program for one day of shopping! One of the most meaningful conversations for me personally took place after dinner last night when eight of the women sat around sharing affirmations about Soulfari Kenya and dreaming about how they can further our vision in Kenya and support our organization. What a blessing! Wow! The energy in this group is awesome, the attitudes are great, and everyone is committed to learning as much as they can from our Kenyan friends and family. The restaurants, organizations, and friends that host us are very impressed with our group. As trip leaders, we are focused on the group and coordinating activities from dusk to dawn, but we are doing it with absolute joy! Julius and I are crashing at our family's home in a nearby neighborhood, which is allowing us time at night to play with our nieces and nephews and deepen our relationships with our brother and sister, Guliana and Emmanuel, so this is a great blessing as well. Thank you for all of your thoughts and prayers!

Happy Birthday Mom!

2006-07-15T04:46:00.000-05:00

Today (July 15th) our mother, Connie Mai, turns 60!!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOM!!! Thank you for being the stunning, loving, compassionate, encouraging, inspiring, faithful, supportive, caring person that you are! The children at Villa Teag made birthday cards for you and we will send them to you in the mail. We wish we could be there with you to celebrate but know that we are there in spirit. We love you! - Sarah, Julius, and Josie

Mount Logonot

2006-07-15T04:29:00.000-05:00

On Friday we took our group of 7, and our dear friend Kym, to Mount Logonot, which is a couple hours outside Nairobi near Lake Naivasha. It was quite a steep hike and they all made it to the top, except me (thanks to a horrible blister on my heel.) On the way, we had a classic "We're in Kenya" experience because our van got stuck in deep sand. While waiting for the men to figure it out, a few of the women travelers had their first "squat and pee" outdoor experience. Eventually, the women stepped in to help and with all of us pushing, we were able to get the van unstuck. What an adventure! We stopped at a viewpoint that overlooks the Rift Valley and it was absolutely stunning! We were dusty, exhausted, and hungry when we finally reached Nairobi but as fate would have it, we got stuck in rush hour traffic and I mean "stuck". We made a one mile gain in town in about 30 minutes. And all the while, we had diesel exhaust penetrating our nostrils from the surrounding trucks. Oh, Nairobi... not my favorite place but it is what it is. Fortunately, Mama Helen had a delicious and healthy dinner awaiting us at teh guesthouse... baked chicken and potatoes, green beans, carrots, salad, rice, and pudding. She spoils us! After dinner, Julius and I walked to our family's home to hang out there. Francy, Mary, and Kevin (nieces and nephews) are teaching me kiswahili and I am teaching them english. They are so precious and they are always so excited when we come over. It has been a delight to get to know my family here. I will miss them when we return to America. Tonight two more travelers arrive (Kerri and Louise) and the rest arrive tomorrow. The official Soulfari Kenya trip is about to begin!!!

Mobile phone number

2006-07-13T05:10:00.000-05:00

I think I have confused people by giving out different numbers. Please make note of the number below as it is the current Soulfari Kenya mobile phone number in Kenya. Travelers' families and friends may contact us in case of emergency only. The travelers will have an opportunity to make international calls to their families at the local internet cafes if they need to do so.

011-254-736-129-833

Back in Nairobi...

2006-07-13T04:55:00.000-05:00

Josie, Julius, and I just returned to Nairobi from a few days up-country. We traveled to Kocholya in Western Kenya to visit our sister, Florence, and her family. It was warm and I was definitely attacked by mosquitoes (thank goodness for anti-malarial meds), but it was a wonderful time nevertheless. Florence was gracious as always preparing us traditional meals, touring us around the area, teaching us kiswahili, luhya, and tesso, instructing us how to cook kenyan meals, providing us a constant supply of water and black currant fanta, and giving us constant hugs and encouragement. We had fun playing with her two youngest kids, Raymond and Terry, and we visited her oldest daughter, Debra, at her boarding school. We definitely had the opportunity to witness the "rural" life and I'm telling you, it's no easy thang! It's even work going to the bathroom, however my legs are quite strong now from all that squatting. hee hee . We are so grateful to Florence for her hospitality and abundant love! On our way back, we stopped in Naivasha and stayed at a place called Fish Eagle Inn. (Dad, you would love this place!) One of the workers at the inn gave me a kikuyu name because he was impressed to see a muzungu (white person) speaking kiswahili. In the morning, Josie and I went on a boat ride across Lake Naivasha and came within twenty feet of a couple dozen hippos. Awesome! (It's all on video, so we'll show you when we return.) Julius has been such an incredible tour guide. I am always amazed by him when we are here together. Every stop we make, he starts up conversation with strangers and makes them laugh and smile. He is confident, hopeful, joyful, and strong and he makes strangers feel that same way when they are around him. I love that man!!!