A new poem, "Make a Difference For Sure"

As I woke another morning and the sun was shining bright
As the holidays approach and we want to do what's right
One by one the mail comes, give to this and give to that
This country needs blankets and this one just needs hats
Much of Africa is in need but our aim for them is focused
To raise young men and train them, give them vision, give them purpose
Raise men up to help within, and encourage their own nation
See their people blossom... encouraged, developed, and strengthened
Africa is a place that already has a history
Wild animal safaris and rainforest mysteries
Allow me to introduce to you a different place to give
Where the money hits directly home, right there where they live
Into-Africa.org is an interesting and unique organization
Where your dollar changes people, changes lives, and changes nations
Beginning in Sierra Leone and pushing out from there
We are able to direct every penny you can spare
We have great credibility because we do what we say
We simply stuck to our word and that's very rare in this day
We are here to help a people that simply want opportunity
To educate themselves with school and medical facilities
To give them hope and dignity
A chance and opportunity
A sense of responsibility
And a vision to see families
Come out from under poverty
And be greater than they could ever be
And have a chance to do great things...
"In America we become so cautious and reserved
In our own little world we protect and we preserve
But Africa depends on one another to endure
And here is where I ask you, to make a difference for sure
You can look at Africa's nations and say "AH! This is ridiculous,"
"The need is really, really big, how can I ever make a difference?"
But there are many witnesses who can testify to you
That all that Into Africa does is honest and is true
West Africans who lives have changed are results of your investment
Go to our website, read for yourself and see the money well spent
We may not change it all at once, but we can do our share
By giving your dollars to a dot org that cares
It is anyone, and I mean anyone, who wants to play a part
You can be that anyone, and here is where it starts
When one charity after another puts out their hand and lies
And the need seems so great for our fellow man to survive
It begins with a vision first, our vision to reach the nations
Into Africa is on the inside in less than ideal situations
Know this year there is someone who is giving all your cents
To help us to help Africa, and make a for-sure difference
Building churches, wells, and schools for growth
Medical care to give people a hope
The heart of God beats strong in them
And you can position them to win
By giving your dollars to a dot org that cares

1st Annual 5k Run/Walk

To start the day 40 runners took their positions as the gun was fired and began the long, arduous 3 mile trek along the scenic Santa Cruz River in Tucson Arizona. The top male finisher for this run was Phillip Valine, while our first female to finish was Kota Rose. Immediately after the run was completed, over 90 walkers lined up and began their journey along the route. The walkers were a diverse and free variety of peoples. We had speed walkers make their way in at 42 minutes such as Pastor Bill Neil. Along this journey there were plenty of women enjoying the fellowship and breeze while pushing strollers, drinking water and walking at a relaxing pace as to take advantage of the warm morning stroll. This walk offered a contrast of both challenge and leisure, depending on the preference.

Finally, we are very excited to announce that we were able to raise the exact amount needed to complete the final stage of the building project in Bo, Sierra Leone. With this, the director of Into-Africa, along with all of the volunteers would like to thank those who took the time to come and participate in the walk. We understand that many of you are very busy and have other commitments; however we do value your time and financial contributions. Thank you for joining us by walking and/or donating - you have touched the lives of so many people in West Africa. I want to take this time and thank you for casting your bread upon the waters. We look forward to all of the upcoming events and next years' walk Into-Africa. Be blessed!