On Monday, we began work at the EAC office. The enviorment is wonderful because everyone is so friendly and passionate about EAC's mission. We began the morning by walking to the office. This was a slight mistake as the sun was blazing causing my shirt to be soaked; however, I am glad we did as the streets are so energetic with people and animals. It's so exciting to see chicken coops, sheep, and goats moving alongside children in uniform and adults dressed for work.

When we arrived at the office we met with Agnes to explain our plans for the coming weeks. In the middle of the meeting, Teddy came in like a storm and said, "I'm bored. Give me something to do." We offered to have her come work with us, which Agnes thought was a good idea. Her assistance is going to be helpful as we consider methods for EAC to measure success because she represents the mission of the organization. Nick and I found many helpful readings in the office so we spent the day in the office doing research.

Tuesday was much more eventful. In the morning, we interviewed Teddy about being a part of EAC and the US Scholarship program. Her story is inspiring. Because of EAC and Alexis Hefley (founder), she went to a dentist for the first time, became stable, independant, and gained an ability to think critically. None of this happened without struggle. When she first came to the US, she did not speak English and found learning the language very difficult. She begged to go home. I'm glad she stayed because her acomplishments mean so much to her family and friends and showcase why EAC is such an important organization. She told us, "Without EAC, I would be married with five kids. I wouldn't have known what do do with myself." To think, we live in a world with so many Teddys whose potentials are never realized is heartbreaking.

After lunch, we went with Alex to visit with the mother of one of EAC's children. The home was situated in one of Kampala's slums. As we drove up, children played along and on our path. Bricked with what I think was a roof made from medal, the home was tiny and dark. I imagined what it might be like to live in such a dark place at night as a child. The two bedrooms were tiny with matresses pushed together. Clothing was stacked because there were no drawers. In each of these rooms, 3-4 children and the mother slept at night. I can never complain about the size of my room again or tell my parents the only reason they think my room is messy is because its so small.

Our conversation with the mother was sad with a strain of hope. She lost her husband many years ago and was left with 7 children and other family members to feed. Each day, she wakes up to make breakfast for the children, purchases food for lunch, and mends childrens' clothing as a way to make a little money. The time she arrives home depends on how well her clothing sells.
To complicate matters, she is HIV-positive. When the illness comes, her productivity is low and although HIV medicine is supposed to be free, often times she cannot afford it. Currently, three of her children are not recieving any aid. They are struggling in school and are in 4th, 7th, and 9th grades.

EAC is the reason for this family to have hope. The daughter recieving services from EAC is a "shining star" providing inspiration and pride for the family. In the community, people can tell she is taken care of. One of the ways is by her braided hair - a sign it is kept. "I can have mental peace knowing she is loved and treasured," she told us. One of the most important things she told us was that compared to her other children, the one recieving aid from EAC speaks reason and has clear thoughts - a sign she is developing critical thinking skills. EAC has also assisted the family when rain caused their home to collapse. This month when a few teenage boys from Dallas come, Nick and I hope to assist. As with Teddy, we asked where the family would be without EAC. She said, "I would be back in the village. Farming would be the only hope. I would have started a new life. The children would have dropped out of school."

I'm not sure I will have Internet connection this weekend so expect a few updates on Monday regarding Wednesday, Thursday and Friday of this week. Then, I will be all caught up. Also, if you see my Grandma in the next few days make sure to tell her Happy Birthday!

- Feldman