In only 2 days, I've already learned so much about the importance of listening to other's needs and being patient to develop a deliverable. I arrived in Dallas, TX two days ago to begin the first leg of our summer project. Michael and I met at Empower African Children's main office and talked with Jeremy and Alexis about some last minute details. At first, Michael and I weren't sure if everyone was on the same page about what we'd be doing, but after talking with them in person together, we are confident that everything will go pretty much as planned. We will be in Kampala for 7 weeks to develop a logic model that will measure the success of EAC's efforts. It's so neat to think that Michael and I will provide a tangible product and service that will be a part of the organization for years to come. We will definitely be pushed to think outside of the box, but we can handle it! We asked EAC what they thought set them apart from other education organizations in Africa. Jeremy responded the relationship and commitment to quality education, not just "education." EAC is dedicated to empowering children to become community leaders and global citizens. They aren't only about numbers, but rather about the individual long-term success of one child. Alexis said that her goal is to "change young people's lives that will change other young people's lives." As I sat listening to Jeremy and Alexis, I thought to myself, this is is what service is all about: Helping others to help others. Giving others the opportunity to succeed enables them to come back to their communities and enrich them.
This trip is going to be so rewarding, and though we're serving others, I am positive that we will be the ones who learn and gain so much from this experience.
-Nick
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