During the start of the summer it has become a bit more difficult to raise funds for several reasons. First, I needed to move from where I had been living, which took a lot of reorganizing and time since it was very tedious.
Second, I have been at a crossroads trying to find a nonprofit organization that would hold onto the charity-money. I have tried a few different options, but found that they are only dead ends. I was able to make some progress in that I have more contacts that understand what we are hoping to do. I wasn't able to obtain an account with the church I had been trying to, but this is not the end of fundraising, only a temporary hold up. I have several other options which I will be exploring. This includes non-religous groups that might hold onto, or team up with me in order to tax shelter the money received. Since I have become aware that this will not be easy I have become frustrated at times with the some of the beaurocratic procedures, that seemingly have a sole purpose to make this more difficult.
Finally, I have had to find another place to work. This has not been easy either, but I will be continuing to work where I have been for the last 6 years, during this summer. I will be anxiously waiting to return to Ghana while I raise money and hopefully bump into the "right" person, or people while at work. In the meantime, I have been able to speak with Godwin, as well as the other volunteer staffers overseas. Most recently I learned that Godwin is hoping to purchase more land in addition to the 6 acres where the future project site is located. It has always been great to hear from him as it keeps the direct connection of what can come out of this hopeful project.
In addition to the project I have been involved with the volunteer organzation I discovered while I was in Ghana (called GCS http://www.gcs-np.org/sites/node). Several prospective volunteers have inquired further into different programs that we are offering and how the experience was for me while I was there. I have become more invloved since taking on the role of a staff member of the organization, and I continue to hear from all of them, in addition to Godwin.
For questions or further details regarding the project please email godwinamway@gmail.com. I am open to any suggestions that would also aid this project. Thank you all for your continued support.
